Durock Piano vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Durock Piano and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Piano and the HMX Swift mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Durock Piano is praised for its proprietary material blend, resulting in a smooth and pleasant typing experience characterized by a gliding push feel and deep, creamy sound signature. On the other hand, the HMX Swift stands out for its deeper sound profile and silky smoothness, attributed to its full nylon housings. While the Piano is categorized as 'Bassy', 'Frictionless', and 'Silky', the Swift is described as 'Clacky', 'Easy-to-press', 'Feathery', 'Bouncy', and 'Creamy'. Each switch has its own set of advantages that may appeal to different users based on their preferences. 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
N/A
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Mystery material
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Piano and the HMX Swift both offer unique sound profiles, with the Piano featuring a proprietary POM blend for both the top and bottom housing, and the Swift utilizing nylon for both top and bottom housing. The POM blend of the Piano is said to provide a deep and satisfying sound profile, while the nylon of the Swift creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic properties that absorb more sound. Both switches aim to offer a rich sound experience, albeit through different materials.
While the Piano utilizes a POM blend for both its top and bottom housing, the Swift also opts for nylon for both components. This similarity in housing materials suggests that both switches may produce comparable sound profiles, with the POM blend of the Piano offering a uniquely satisfying sound and the nylon of the Swift creating a deeper, fuller sound experience. The use of the same housing materials in both switches may result in similar typing experiences in terms of sound quality and feel.
Despite the similarities in housing materials for the Durock Piano and the HMX Swift, the impact of these materials on the overall sound profile of the switches may differ. The bottom housing of a switch typically influences the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when the key is released. Therefore, even though both switches may share the same housing materials, the distribution of these materials between the top and bottom housing can result in distinct typing experiences for each switch.
Weight
When it comes to actuation force and bottom out force, the Durock Piano linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch offer different experiences. The Piano switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the Swift switch is lighter with a bottom out force of 50 grams. The actuation force of the Piano switch is not specified, but the Swift switch has an actuation force of 42 grams. This means that the Swift switch requires less force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Piano switch. The difference in weight between the two switches can impact typing comfort and overall typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Swift switch more suitable for longer typing or gaming sessions, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the heavier bottom out force of the Piano switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Piano linear switch is 4 mm, slightly longer than the 3.9 mm travel distance of the HMX Swift linear switch. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Piano being on the longer side and the Swift being slightly shorter. Gamers may prefer the Swift for its slightly faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more pronounced key press may opt for the Piano with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Piano has an MSRP of $6.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Piano for $5.57.
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.
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 Durock Piano linear switch offers a deep and rich bassy sound profile, making each key press feel satisfying and luxurious. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch provides a clacky and sharp sound, adding a crisp and bright element to your typing experience. Depending on your preferences, the Piano switch may be more suitable for those who enjoy a deeper and smoother sound, while the Swift switch may appeal to individuals looking for a more percussive and lively sound.
In terms of feel, the Durock Piano switch is known for its frictionless and silky typing experience, providing a smooth and effortless sensation with each keystroke. In contrast, the HMX Swift switch offers an easy-to-press and feathery feel, with gentle resistance and light actuation force that minimizes finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Swift switch also has a bouncy and creamy tactile sensation, enhancing the overall typing experience with a spring-like feedback and buttery smoothness.
Overall, while both the Durock Piano and HMX Swift linear switches offer unique sound and feel characteristics, they both provide a high-quality typing experience with their proprietary material blends and innovative design features. Whether you prefer a deeper bassy sound with a frictionless feel or a clacky sound with an easy-to-press sensation, both switches are designed to cater to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Piano linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a smoother, deeper typing feel with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Durock Piano linear switch is the way to go. However, if you prefer a lighter, easier-to-press switch with a brighter sound profile, the HMX Swift linear switch might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to your desired typing sensation and sound preference.
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