Dareu Snow vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Dareu Snow and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Snow and the HMX Swift mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Snow switch is known for its innovative use of POK material in the top housing and stem, resulting in a deeper sound signature during typing. It is described as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bouncy'. On the other hand, the Swift switch from HMX features full nylon housings that contribute to a deeper sound profile, along with a silky smoothness that complements its delicate 42g actuation force. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'Easy-to-press', 'Feathery', 'Bouncy', and 'Creamy', the Swift offers a unique typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences. 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
50g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Snow and the HMX Swift, it is evident that both keyboards utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches made from nylon. While both keyboards share the same material for their housing, the design and manufacturing process may still result in slight variations in sound and feel.
The Dareu Snow sets itself apart with its POK top housing, which offers a coefficient of friction of 0.04, slightly higher than LY. This makes it one of the smoothest materials available and contributes to smooth, clacky, and durable switches. On the other hand, the HMX Swift features nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. While both materials have their unique characteristics, the POK material in the Snow provides exceptional strength and wear resistance, surpassing Nylon by 2.3 times and POM by 1.4 times.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Dareu Snow and the HMX Swift utilize nylon. This means that both keyboards offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when it comes to the bottom-out sound. The qualities of the nylon bottom housing, being a softer plastic that absorbs sound, contribute to the overall typing experience on both keyboards. However, it is important to note that the top housing material may have a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key, which could result in differences in sound profile between the two keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Snow linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it is clear that the Snow requires a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Swift. The Snow has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Swift has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Snow would provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, whereas the Swift would offer a lighter typing feel that may be more suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. Both switches provide a satisfactory typing experience, but the choice between the two would ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of desired actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Dareu Snow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. In this comparison, the Dareu Snow has a shorter travel distance compared to the HMX Swift. The Snow's 3.3 mm travel distance might be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the Swift's 3.9 mm travel distance could provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more substantial press when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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 Dareu Snow linear switch offers a thocky sound profile, delivering a deep and rich sound when typing. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch provides a clacky sound, known for its sharp and snappy characteristics. While the Snow switch presents a low-pitched and neutral sound, the Swift switch stands out with its bright and percussive tones. The choice between the two will ultimately depend on personal preference, with the Snow offering a deeper sound experience compared to the brighter sound of the Swift.
Moving on to feel, the Dareu Snow switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that adds liveliness to the typing experience. Conversely, the HMX Swift switch offers an easy-to-press feel, with a feathery and bouncy sensation that enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue during extended usage. Additionally, the Swift switch is also characterized by its creamy texture, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. Depending on whether you prefer a bouncy and lively feel or a light and effortless typing experience, you can choose between the Snow or Swift switch for your mechanical keyboard.
In conclusion, the Dareu Snow linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Snow switch provides a thocky sound and a bouncy feel, while the Swift switch delivers a clacky sound and an easy-to-press sensation. If you enjoy a deep and rich sound with a bouncy typing experience, the Snow switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a bright and snappy sound paired with an easy-to-press and feathery feel, the Swift switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your overall mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Dareu Snow linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 60 grams and enjoy a deeper sound profile with a thocky, neutral, or low-pitched sound, along with a bouncy feel, then the Snow switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, a silky smooth feel with easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, or creamy attributes, and appreciate a clacky sound profile, then the Swift switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you seek from your mechanical keyboard.
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