Gateron Silent Ink Black vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Gateron Silent Ink Black and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Silent Ink Black and the HMX Swift mechanical keyboard switches, both switches offer unique features and qualities to consider. The Silent Ink Black is an ideal choice for those who value a quieter typing experience, thanks to its silenced design and minimal audio feedback. On the other hand, the HMX Swift stands out for its deeper sound profile and silky smoothness, making it a great option for those who prefer a lighter 42g actuation force. 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
60g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Silent Ink Black and the HMX Swift both play a significant role in determining the sound profile of the switches. The Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend top housing offers a higher-pitched and clacky sound, while the Swift's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users. Additionally, the bottom housing of the Silent Ink Black also contributes to the higher-pitched sound, whereas the nylon bottom housing of the Swift creates a duller and rounder sound.
While both switches utilize different housing materials for the top and bottom, the qualities of each material are split between the two parts of the switch. The bottom housing of the Silent Ink Black and the Swift influences the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down. In contrast, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when the key is released. This distinction allows for a more dynamic typing experience as users engage with the switches in different ways based on whether they are pressing down or releasing a key.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Silent Ink Black and the HMX Swift ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The Silent Ink Black offers a sharper and clacky sound, while the Swift provides a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches use their housing materials to create unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. However, users can expect similar results in terms of housing material impact on sound and feel when pressing down or releasing a key, showcasing the versatility and quality of both switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it is evident that the Silent Ink Black is the heavier option, with an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it medium-heavy. On the other hand, the Swift is the lighter option, with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is considered light. The difference in weight between the two switches can affect the typing experience significantly. Some users may prefer the lighter Swift switch for extended typing sessions or gaming, as it requires less effort to press the keys. On the contrary, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the heavier Silent Ink Black switch, providing a more pronounced tactile response. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force, with lighter options offering longer typing comfort and heavier options providing a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Silent Ink Black 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 fall within the range of traditional travel distances for mechanical keyboard switches. Gamers may prefer the Swift switch for its slightly shorter travel distance, which can result in faster response times during intense gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may find the 4 mm travel distance of the Silent Ink Black to be more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
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 Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch offers a muted experience, producing softer and quieter keystrokes compared to regular switches. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch provides a clacky sound, giving off a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. Depending on personal preference and the surrounding environment, the Silent Ink Black would be more suitable for those looking for a quieter typing experience, while the Swift may appeal to individuals who prefer a brighter and more percussive sound.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch is described as silky and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience. The HMX Swift switch, on the other hand, is known for being easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy. This means that the Swift switch provides a light and low-impact typing feel, reducing finger fatigue and offering a spring-like feedback sensation. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black switch focuses on smoothness and refined finish, enhancing overall typing comfort with minimal resistance.
Overall, when comparing the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch to the HMX Swift linear switch, it is clear that they cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Silent Ink Black excels in providing a muted and cushion-like typing experience, perfect for quiet environments and tactile satisfaction. Meanwhile, the HMX Swift impresses with a brighter sound profile and light actuation force, making typing effortless and comfortable. Depending on whether you prioritize quietness or responsiveness in your typing experience, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to a variety of users' needs. Ultimately, choosing between these switches comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you desire.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a quieter typing experience in environments that necessitate minimal noise, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch would be a suitable choice for you. With its cushioned bottom-out feel and muted sound profile, this switch offers a smooth and quiet typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a deeper sound profile, the HMX Swift linear switch might be more appealing to you. The Swift's silky smoothness and easy-to-press keys provide a comfortable typing experience that is gentle on your fingers. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for typing feel and sound signature.
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