Kailh Plum vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Kailh Plum and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Plum tactile switch to the HMX Swift linear switch, it is important to note some key differences. The Plum is renowned for its unique feel, with a hefty build but a subtle tactile bump that sets it apart from other tactile switches. On the other hand, the Swift stands out with its deep sound profile and smoothness, thanks to its full nylon housings and light 42g actuation force. Both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences - the Plum for those who enjoy a weighty feel without a pronounced tactile bump, and the Swift for those who prefer a smoother, quieter typing experience. 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
70g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
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 Kailh Plum and the HMX Swift have different housing materials for both the top and bottom of the switch. The Plum features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Swift has a nylon top housing that creates a deeper, fuller sound. On the other hand, both switches have nylon bottom housings, which result in a similar deep and full sound profile. The difference in top housing material between the two switches gives them distinct sound characteristics, with the Plum producing a clearer and more resonant sound compared to the Swift's duller and rounder sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the Polycarbonate top housing of the Plum allows for a translucent design that is great for RGB lighting, while the nylon top housing of the Swift offers a more traditional look. Both switches benefit from the absorptive qualities of nylon in their bottom housings, which help create a more subdued sound upon bottoming out. However, the stiffer polycarbonate used in the Plum's top housing results in a crisper sound when typing, whereas the softer nylon top housing of the Swift absorbs more sound for a smoother typing experience. Overall, the choice between polycarbonate and nylon housing materials can greatly impact the sound and feel of a switch, providing users with options to suit their preferences.
When comparing the top and bottom housings of the Kailh Plum and HMX Swift, it is clear that the materials chosen have a significant impact on the overall sound profile of the switches. While the polycarbonate top housing of the Plum creates a sharp, clear sound, the nylon top housing of the Swift offers a deeper and fuller sound experience. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of both switches provide a similar level of sound absorption, resulting in a consistent deep and full sound when typing. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a balance of qualities that influence both the end of keystrokes and the bottom-out sound, giving users a variety of options to choose from based on their sound preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it is evident that the Plum requires a significantly heavier force to bottom out at 70 grams, compared to the Swift's 50 grams. While the actuation force of the Plum is unknown, the Swift requires 42 grams to register a keypress. This makes the Swift a lighter option overall, suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time. In contrast, the Plum provides a more substantial typing feel with its heavier bottom out force, appealing to users who prefer a stronger push when typing. Both switches offer different typing experiences, catering to individuals with varying preferences in weight and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Kailh Plum tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. In this case, the Swift has a longer travel distance compared to the Plum. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their quick response times. The Plum may appeal to those looking for a slightly shorter travel distance for a snappier typing experience, while the Swift provides a bit more depth for those who prefer a more substantial keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of the desired typing feel and responsiveness.
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 Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25 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 Kailh Plum tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for various purposes, providing a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound level. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch is characterized by a clacky sound signature, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, thanks to its full nylon housings. The sound produced by each switch is influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the choice of keycaps.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Kailh Plum tactile switch is described as providing a mild and stepped typing experience. It offers a gentle typing experience with a unique tactile feel that does not feature a significant tactile bump. In comparison, the HMX Swift linear switch is known for its easy-to-press and feathery feel, offering minimal resistance during key presses and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Swift switch provides a bouncy and creamy sensation, giving users a spring-like feedback and a smooth typing experience.
Considering all the available information, while the Kailh Plum and HMX Swift switches offer distinct sound and feel characteristics, they both provide unique and enjoyable typing experiences. The Plum switch stands out with its weightiness and unique tactile feel, paired with a neutral sound profile, making it a versatile option for various typing tasks. On the other hand, the Swift switch impresses with its deep sound profile, light actuation force, and silky smoothness, offering a different yet equally satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would come down to personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, you should consider the level of actuation force you prefer and the sound and feel characteristics that align with your typing experience. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a unique tactile feel with a neutral sound profile, the Plum switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom out force and a deep, silky smooth sound profile with easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, or creamy typing feel, the Swift switch may better suit your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style to ensure the best mechanical keyboard switch experience for you.
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