Outemu Silent Green vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Green and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Silent Green and the HMX Swift mechanical keyboard switches, we notice some key differences. The Silent Green is known for its quiet operation, while the Swift stands out for its silky smoothness and deeper sound profile attributed to its full nylon housings. The Silent Green is categorized as a tactile switch, whereas the Swift falls into categories like clacky, easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy. Each switch has its unique characteristics that may appeal to different preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
pom
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silent Green and the HMX Swift, it is clear that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Silent Green features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Swift uses a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. The differences in sound profile can be attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate in the Silent Green and the softer nature of nylon in the Swift. This contrast in materials leads to distinct typing experiences for users of each switch.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the Silent Green and the Swift feature polycarbonate and nylon materials, respectively. Similar to the top housings, the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Silent Green contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing in the Swift absorbs more sound for a duller and rounder sound experience. The bottom housings of these switches play a significant role in the overall typing experience, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the keys. Despite their differences, both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their bottom housing materials.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches like the Outemu Silent Green and the HMX Swift directly influences the sound profiles and typing experiences they provide to users. While the Silent Green excels in producing a sharper and higher-pitched sound with its polycarbonate housings, the Swift offers a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon housings. The split between top and bottom housings allows for a balance of qualities in each switch, affecting both the sound when pressing down and releasing keys. Ultimately, the materials used in the construction of switch housings play a crucial role in creating a customized typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Outemu Silent Green linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Silent Green has a higher actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Swift at 42 grams, making the Silent Green slightly heavier. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Silent Green requires 60 grams while the Swift only needs 50 grams, making the Swift lighter in this aspect. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the HMX Swift switch, while those who prefer a more substantial push feel may lean towards the Outemu Silent Green switch. Both switches provide a medium actuation force, which means users can expect similar results in terms of key response and feedback. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Silent Green linear switch is 4.0mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9mm. Both switches have relatively similar travel distances, with the Silent Green being slightly longer than the Swift. In terms of responsiveness, the Swift may offer a slightly faster response time due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers may prefer the Swift for this reason, as shorter travel distances are often favored for quick reactions. However, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Silent Green with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Silent Green 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 Silent Green switch is known for producing minimal noise, perfect for those who prefer a quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Swift switch offers a unique clacky sound profile characterized by a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. This distinct sound is enhanced by the full nylon housing, resulting in a deep and satisfying auditory experience. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Silent Green switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, whereas the HMX Swift switch is known for being easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy. The Swift switch offers a gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate, making it effortless and comfortable for extended typing sessions. Its light actuation force reduces finger fatigue and provides a responsive and low-impact typing feel, further enhanced by its feathery and bouncy feedback sensations. The creamy nature of the switch adds a smooth and buttery typing experience, comparable to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys.
In conclusion, the Outemu Silent Green and HMX Swift switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Silent Green switch is favored for its quiet operation, while the Swift switch stands out for its deep clacky sound and easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy feel. Depending on individual preferences for noise levels and typing experience, both switches provide unique options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you choose the Silent Green or the Swift, you can expect a high-quality typing experience tailored to your specific needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Outemu Silent Green linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a medium bottom out force and are looking for a switch with a neutral reputation, the Silent Green may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and are seeking a switch with a distinctive sound profile characterized by a deeper sound and silky smoothness, the HMX Swift could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound.
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