KTT Rose vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the KTT Rose and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Rose linear switch to the HMX Swift linear switch, some key differences and similarities stand out. The Rose switch is praised for its progressive springs, providing a substantial yet not heavy typing experience with a low-pitched and polished feel. On the other hand, the Swift switch offers a deeper sound profile and silky smoothness, thanks to its full nylon housings and delicate 42g actuation force. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Rose being more neutral and mild while the Swift is clacky, easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and 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
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
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Progressive spring
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Rose and the HMX Swift, it is evident that they both utilize nylon as their bottom housing material. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon for their housing. Both the Rose and the Swift benefit from this classic switch housing material in their bottom housing, providing a consistent typing experience with a focus on sound quality.
On the other hand, the top housing material differs between the two switches, with the Rose featuring a polycarbonate top housing while the Swift utilizes a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Rose creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its relatively stiffer plastic composition that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Swift elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon's softer plastic composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. Despite these differences, both top housing materials offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences in switch typing experiences.
Ultimately, the housing materials of the KTT Rose and the HMX Swift play a significant role in shaping the sound profiles of these switches. While the Rose excels in providing a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing, the Swift offers a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon top housing. Both switches benefit from the use of nylon in their bottom housing, resulting in a consistent typing experience with a focus on sound quality. Whether a switch features a polycarbonate or nylon top housing, users can expect a unique sound profile that complements their typing preferences.
Weight
In comparing the KTT Rose linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it is evident that they differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Rose switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, indicating a medium-heavy feel, while its actuation force remains unknown. On the other hand, the Swift switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option overall. Weight plays a significant role in the typing experience, with lighter switches allowing for longer periods of typing without fatigue, ideal for work or gaming marathons. Meanwhile, heavier switches provide a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Both switches have their advantages depending on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Rose linear 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 offer a relatively similar travel distance, with the Rose being slightly longer. In terms of preference, the Rose switch may appeal to those who prefer a slightly longer travel distance for a more substantial key press feel, while the Swift switch may be favored by those looking for a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference and the 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 KTT Rose comes in at $3.01 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 KTT Rose linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral tone, providing a bass-heavy and mellow sound that is suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. The Rose switch may offer a more subdued typing sound, while the Swift switch delivers a more pronounced and bright acoustics. Both switches can be customized based on the keyboard and keycaps used, influencing the overall sound experience accordingly.
In terms of feel, the KTT Rose linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle and refined key press that falls within a safe middle ground. The switch is smooth and approachable, ideal for users seeking a comfortable typing feel. Conversely, the HMX Swift linear switch is characterized by being easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy. This means that the Swift switch offers a light and effortless typing experience, reducing finger fatigue and providing a smooth sensation with each keystroke. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of typing feel, allowing users to choose based on their desired level of key resistance and feedback.
In conclusion, the KTT Rose linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Rose switch provides a low-pitched and mild typing experience, while the Swift switch delivers a clacky and easy-to-press sensation. While the sound and feel of the switches vary, both options cater to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Rose linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a medium-heavy typing experience with a beautiful sound profile and polished feel, the Rose switch may be right for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force, a silky smooth sound, and an easy-to-press, feathery feel, the Swift switch could be the better choice. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to prioritize what matters most to you in a keyboard switch.
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