Outemu Dustproof Blue vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the HMX Swift offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Dustproof Blue is renowned for its clicky feedback, providing a satisfying sound and tactile feel with each keystroke. In contrast, the HMX Swift stands out for its smooth and linear action, offering a quieter typing experience with a lighter actuation force. While the Dustproof Blue is ideal for those who prefer a more audible and tactile typing experience, the HMX Swift appeals to users who prioritize a quieter and smoother typing feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
While both the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the HMX Swift utilize nylon for their bottom housing, they differ in their choice of material for the top housing. The Dustproof Blue features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Swift opts for a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer and sound-absorbing nature. This contrast in housing materials results in a different auditory experience for users of each switch.
In terms of aesthetics, the Dustproof Blue's polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it suitable for switches that require RGB lighting. In comparison, the Swift's nylon top housing is not transparent, offering a more traditional and classic look. Both housing materials have their own advantages in terms of sound quality and appearance, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Despite these differences, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to the overall sound profile with its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound when typing.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the HMX Swift will depend on individual preferences for sound profile and aesthetics. While the Dustproof Blue's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound, the Swift's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound experience. However, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a consistent deeper sound profile regardless of the top housing material. Whether one prefers a more resonant and clear sound or a deeper and fuller sound, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the HMX Swift linear switch are quite different. The Dustproof Blue has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Swift's 42 grams, making it heavier. In terms of bottom out force, the Dustproof Blue requires 65 grams while the Swift only needs 50 grams, indicating that the Dustproof Blue is also heavier in this aspect. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Dustproof Blue due to its heavier forces. On the other hand, the Swift's lighter actuation and bottom out forces may appeal to individuals who want a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time. Both switches offer unique advantages based on their actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose according to their preferences for typing or gaming needs.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Dustproof Blue being slightly longer than the Swift. The Dustproof Blue offers a bit more depth when pressing down on the key compared to the Swift, which may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for some users. On the other hand, the Swift's slightly shorter travel distance could be favored by those looking for a quicker response time, especially in gaming scenarios. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience you are looking for.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift for $2.99.
The Outemu Dustproof Blue comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch is known for its classic clicky sound that is loud and satisfying, giving a tactile feedback for each key press. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch offers a unique clacky sound due to its full nylon housing, providing a deeper and more muted sound compared to typical linear switches. Both switches provide distinct auditory feedback that can enhance the typing experience, but the Dustproof Blue offers a more traditional clicky sound while the Swift provides a quieter and more subtle clack.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch is known for its tactile feedback with a noticeable bump during actuation, making it ideal for typists who prefer a more pronounced keystroke feel. In contrast, the HMX Swift switch is characterized by an easy-to-press sensation with its low 42g actuation force, allowing for effortless key presses that reduce finger fatigue during long typing sessions. The Swift switch also offers a feathery and bouncy feel, enhancing the typing experience by providing a responsive and low-impact typing feel.
In conclusion, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the HMX Swift linear switch offer different subjective qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Dustproof Blue provides a classic and loud clicky sound with a tactile bump, suitable for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Swift switch offers a deeper clacky sound with a silky smooth feel and light actuation force, making it a great option for users seeking a quieter and more effortless typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a medium-heavy clicky switch with a satisfying tactile feedback, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch would be a good choice. Its 65g bottom out force provides a nice balance of resistance for typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter linear switch with a smooth actuation and deep sound profile, the HMX Swift switch would be a great option. The 50g bottom out force of the Swift switch makes it easy to press and comfortable for long typing sessions. Consider your preference for sound, feel, and typing experience when choosing between these switches to find the one that best suits your needs.
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