Kailh Sage vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Kailh Sage and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Sage and HMX Swift are among the popular choices in the market. The Kailh Sage is a clicky switch that provides a satisfyingly heavy and sharp clickiness, offering an invigorating typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Swift is a linear switch known for its smooth and light actuation force, giving users a feathery and bouncy typing feel. While the Sage is ideal for those who enjoy a crunchy and sharp typing experience, the Swift appeals to those who prefer a creamy and easy-to-press feel. 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Sage and the HMX Swift, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This means that typing on either switch will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. However, the Sage's top housing is made of polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Swift's nylon top housing. This difference in material leads to a contrast in sound profiles between the two switches, with the Sage likely producing a clearer and more resonant sound while the Swift's sound may be duller and rounder.
The use of polycarbonate in the Sage's top housing also allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switch that the Swift may not have. While both switches share the same bottom housing material, the Sage's combination of polycarbonate and nylon in its top and bottom housings creates a unique sound profile that may be preferred by those looking for a crisper typing experience. On the other hand, the Swift's consistent use of nylon throughout its housing results in a more consistent sound profile across the entire switch, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a deeper and fuller typing sound.
Overall, the housing materials of the Kailh Sage and the HMX Swift offer a mix of similarities and differences that cater to different preferences in typing sound. Both switches benefit from the absorption properties of nylon in their bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. However, the Sage's use of polycarbonate in the top housing sets it apart with a sharper and crisper sound, as well as the ability to showcase RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Swift's consistent use of nylon throughout its housing results in a more uniform sound profile, making it a reliable choice for those looking for a consistent typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Kailh Sage clicky switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, one notable difference is in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Sage has a bottom out force of 70 grams, while the Swift has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams. The actuation force of the Sage is not specified, but the Swift has an actuation force of 42 grams. This means that the Swift is lighter both in actuation and bottom out force compared to the Sage. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Swift would be the more suitable option, allowing for longer typing sessions with less fatigue. On the other hand, the Sage provides a heavier push feel, ideal for those looking for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Kailh Sage clicky 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 switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Sage switch. A shorter travel distance, like the one found in the Sage switch, is often preferred by gamers for its faster response times. On the other hand, a longer travel distance, like that of the Swift switch, may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for some users who prefer a deeper key press sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
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 Sage 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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh Sage clicky switch offers a crunchy typing experience that is most commonly associated with clicky switches. It produces a distinctive crisp and crunchy sound similar to stepping on piles of autumn leaves. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch provides a clacky sound that is sharp and snappy, with a more percussive and bright quality. The sound of each switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Sage switch is described as invigorating and sharp, providing a pronounced feedback and a firm actuation force, resulting in a snappy and reactive typing sensation. The tactile bump is strong and crisp, offering a distinct feeling with each keypress. In contrast, the HMX Swift switch offers an easy-to-press experience with minimal resistance during keypresses. The light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, the Swift switch gives a feathery and bouncy sensation, offering a spring-like feedback and a smooth, buttery typing experience.
Overall, while the Kailh Sage clicky switch and the HMX Swift linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel, they both provide a unique and enjoyable typing experience. If you prefer a crunchy sound and sharp tactile feedback, the Sage switch may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a clacky sound with a smoother and lighter typing feel, the Swift switch could be the better option. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, so it is essential to consider your personal typing style and preferences when choosing between the two.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between Kailh Sage clicky switches and HMX Swift linear switches, you should consider the typing experience you are looking for. If you prefer a heavier switch with a sharp clickiness, the Sage switches would be a good choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a smoother feel and lower actuation force, the Swift switches would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing style. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing needs and preferences.
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