Outemu Purple vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Outemu Purple and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Purple, a tactile switch, and the HMX Swift, a linear switch, offer unique features to consider. The purple switch is best known for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying bump when pressed. On the other hand, the Swift switch is distinguished by its smooth and quiet operation, making it ideal for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. While the Purple switch is categorized as a tactile switch, the Swift switch falls under categories such as 'clacky', 'easy-to-press', 'feathery', 'bouncy', 'creamy'. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
The Outemu Purple and the HMX Swift both use polycarbonate for their top housings, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, creating a clear and resonant sound when typing. On the other hand, the Swift utilizes nylon for its top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Purple. While polycarbonate is preferred for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency, nylon offers a more classic sound that is preferred by some users.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Purple and the Swift use nylon, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This softer plastic material absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing. As a result, the bottom housing of these switches has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. The differences in the top and bottom housing materials between the two switches lead to variations in the overall typing experience, with the Purple offering a crisper sound and the Swift providing a fuller sound.
Overall, while the Outemu Purple and the HMX Swift differ in their choice of materials for their top and bottom housings, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The stiffer polycarbonate of the Purple creates a sharp and clear sound, while the softer nylon of the Swift produces a deeper and fuller sound. Whether you prefer a more resonant typing experience or a classic, round sound, both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for sound profiles and typing feel.
Weight
The Outemu Purple tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the HMX Swift linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams. This means that the Purple switch requires more force to register a keystroke than the Swift switch. However, the bottom out force of the Purple switch is unknown, while the Swift switch has a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it the heavier of the two switches in that aspect. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Swift switch for longer typing sessions, while those looking for a more substantial push feel may opt for the Purple switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Purple tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.9 mm. Both switches fall within the standard range for travel distances, with the Purple being slightly longer. Gamers who prefer faster response times may opt for the Swift due to its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more tactile feel may prefer the Purple. In terms of overall feel, the Swift may feel slightly more abrupt due to its shorter travel distance, while the Purple may provide a more satisfying depth when pressed. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing experience.
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 Purple 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Purple tactile switch is known for its undefined sound profile, which can vary depending on the keyboard and keycaps used. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch is recognized for its unique clacky sound, characterized by a sharp and snappy tone that is crisp, bright, and percussive. The Swift's deeper sound profile is attributed to its full nylon housings, which add to its overall acoustics. Both switches offer different auditory experiences, with the Purple providing a more subjective sound profile and the Swift delivering a distinct clacky sound.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Purple switch offers a tactile typing experience with specific details not provided. On the contrary, the HMX Swift switch is described as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy. These qualities make the Swift switch exceptionally light to press, requiring minimal exertion from the fingers, enhancing typing comfort, and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The smoothness and low actuation force of the Swift switch contribute to a responsive and comfortable typing feel, making it ideal for various applications, including gaming, school, and work.
In conclusion, the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch offer distinct sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences and typing styles. While the Purple switch provides a varied sound profile and tactile typing experience, the Swift switch stands out for its clacky sound and easy-to-press, feathery feel. Both switches have their unique qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the Purple and Swift switches to achieve similar satisfactory results in their mechanical keyboard setups.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, consider the type of experience you're looking for. If you prefer a switch with a light actuation force and a gentle, easy-to-press feel that reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions, the Swift linear switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch with a unique and deep sound profile, along with a smooth and feather-light feel that enhances your typing experience, the Purple tactile switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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