Gateron Smoothie Silver vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Gateron Smoothie Silver and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Smoothie Silver and the HMX Swift are two popular options in the linear switch category. The Smoothie Silver is favored for its lightning-fast actuation thanks to its all-POM construction, delivering a thocky sound and unparalleled smoothness with a feather-light touch. On the other hand, the HMX Swift offers a deeper sound profile due to its full nylon housings, along with a silky smoothness and delicate 42g actuation force. While both switches fall into the linear switch category, the Smoothie Silver is best known for its speed and smoothness, while the Swift stands out for its deeper sound profile and gentle 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
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Smoothie Silver and HMX Swift both use different materials for their top and bottom housing, with the Smoothie Silver featuring a POM top and bottom housing while the Swift utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing. The POM material of the Smoothie Silver is praised for creating a unique and pleasing sound profile that is deeper and more muted, whereas the nylon material of the Swift produces a fuller and deeper sound thanks to its softer texture that absorbs more sound. Both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their distinct housing materials.
While both switches have unique qualities attributed to their housing materials, the Smoothie Silver's POM material appears to create a more distinct and pronounced sound profile compared to the Swift's nylon material. The deeper and more muted sound of the POM housing may appeal to users looking for a quieter typing experience, while the fuller and rounder sound of the nylon housing in the Swift may attract those who enjoy a more impactful sound when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback.
In terms of feel and sound, the differences between the POM and nylon housing materials of the Smoothie Silver and Swift switches respectively are evident. The impact of the housing material on the bottom-out sound and feel is more pronounced in the POM housing of the Smoothie Silver, while the nylon housing of the Swift plays a larger role in the sound when releasing a key. Both switches offer a unique typing experience based on the qualities of their housing materials, providing users with options to choose from based on their preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
Looking at the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, we can see that the Smoothie Silver has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Swift's 42 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Swift is 50 grams, indicating a heavier force needed to fully press the key compared to the Smoothie Silver, which has an unspecified bottom out force. This makes the Swift switch a bit heavier overall, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver's lighter actuation force may be more suitable for individuals looking for a lighter typing experience for longer periods of typing or gaming. Both switches offer different weight options to cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can find a switch that suits their typing style and needs.
Travel distance
The Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. In this case, the Smoothie Silver has a shorter travel distance compared to the Swift. A shorter travel distance is favored by gamers for quicker response times, while a longer travel distance provides a more substantial feel when pressing down on the key. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prefer a more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for the amount of key depth desired during typing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Smoothie Silver has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie Silver for $2.60.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch offers a thocky sound, known for its deep and satisfying noise upon actuation. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch provides a clacky sound profile, characterized by a sharp and snappy sound that adds a crisp and bright tone to your typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound, as well as the other components of your keyboard setup.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch is praised for its smooth and feather-light touch. This switch offers a delicate typing experience with a short travel distance, making it ideal for users who prefer a light and effortless keystroke. Conversely, the HMX Swift linear switch is described as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy. These qualities combine to provide a responsive and low-impact typing feel, reducing finger fatigue and enhancing the overall typing experience. Again, the decision between the two switches will hinge on your personal preference for typing feel and the level of comfort you desire during extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Smoothie Silver and HMX Swift linear switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Smoothie Silver excels in providing a thocky sound and feather-light touch, while the Swift stands out with its clacky sound profile and easy-to-press feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. However, it is important to note that both switches offer smoothness and a pleasant typing sensation, so regardless of your choice, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a lightning-fast actuation with a short travel distance and a thocky sound, the Smoothie Silver would be a great choice for you. This switch offers unparalleled smoothness and a feather-light touch that enhances typing speed and accuracy. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper sound profile and a silky smooth feel with a light actuation force, the HMX Swift switch might be more suitable for your preferences. With a 50g actuation force and full nylon housings contributing to its unique sound and feel, the Swift offers a pleasant typing experience that reduces finger fatigue. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize speed and thockiness or a deeper sound profile and smooth feel in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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