TTC Speed Silver vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the TTC Speed Silver and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the TTC Speed Silver and the HMX Swift mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique benefits that cater to different preferences. The Speed Silver is ideal for those who prioritize speed and precision in their typing experience. With a light-medium level of resistance and a reduced travel distance, these switches provide a quick and effortless actuation, making them perfect for those who need a fast response time. On the other hand, the Swift switches are known for their deep sound profile and silky smooth feel, offering a unique typing experience that is both gentle and satisfying. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
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
The housing materials of the TTC Speed Silver and the HMX Swift both play a significant role in shaping the sound profile of the switches. While the Speed Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature, the Swift utilizes a nylon top housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound by absorbing more sound with its softer plastic composition. This contrast in material results in a distinct difference in the typing experience between the two switches, with the Speed Silver offering a more pronounced and clearer sound compared to the Swift's rounder and duller sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Speed Silver and the Swift utilize nylon for its softer properties that contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This similarity in material choice for the bottom housing of the switches means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel when pressing down on the keys. However, the differences in the top housing materials of the two switches will still influence the overall sound profile and tactile feedback experienced by users, with the polycarbonate top housing of the Speed Silver providing a sharper sound upon key release compared to the softer sound produced by the nylon top housing of the HMX Swift.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches such as the TTC Speed Silver and the HMX Swift greatly influences the sound profile and typing experience for users. While both switches use nylon for the bottom housing to create a deeper and fuller sound, the difference in the top housing material results in a distinct contrast in the clarity and sharpness of the sound produced. Whether it's the sharper and crisper sound of the polycarbonate top housing in the Speed Silver or the deeper and fuller sound of the nylon top housing in the Swift, users can choose a switch that best suits their preferences based on the different qualities each housing material brings to the overall typing experience.
Weight
The TTC Speed Silver linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch have slight differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Speed Silver has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the 42 grams of the Swift, making it a bit lighter to trigger a keypress. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Speed Silver requires a slightly higher force of 55 grams compared to the Swift's 50 grams. This means that the Swift is overall a lighter switch compared to the Speed Silver. Both switches provide a smooth linear typing experience, but the Speed Silver offers a bit more resistance for users who prefer a slightly heavier feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the TTC Speed Silver linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it can be seen that the Speed Silver has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Swift has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. The Speed Silver's travel distance is shorter than that of the Swift, offering a quicker response time which may be preferred by gamers looking for a faster input. On the other hand, the Swift's longer travel distance provides a deeper and more substantial key press feel, which some users may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for responsiveness versus key depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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
The TTC Speed Silver linear switch is best known for its fast and precise typing experience, with a reduced travel distance for quick actuation. It has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various uses. In terms of feel, the Speed Silver offers a mild and polished typing experience, with smooth key travel and reduced friction. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch stands out for its deep sound profile and silky smoothness, along with a delicate 42g actuation force. The Swift switch produces a clacky sound when pressed, adding a crisp and bright element to the typing experience. It is described as easy-to-press and feathery, providing a low-impact and comfortable typing feel.
Overall, the TTC Speed Silver and HMX Swift linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Speed Silver provides a neutral sound profile and a mild, polished typing experience, the Swift switch offers a deeper sound profile with a clacky sound and an easy-to-press, feathery feel. Both switches excel in different aspects, catering to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on the individual's preference for sound, feel, and typing experience. However, if one is looking for a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel, both switches offer a smooth and refined typing experience with their respective qualities.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Speed Silver linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, you should choose the Speed Silver if you value a fast and precise typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and reduced travel distance. The Speed Silver is best for those who prefer a neutral sound profile and a mild and polished typing feel. On the other hand, the HMX Swift is the ideal choice for users looking for a light actuation force and a deeper sound profile with a silky smoothness. The Swift is best for individuals who enjoy a clacky sound profile and a typing feel that is easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, or creamy. Ultimately, your decision will depend on your preferences for typing speed, sound, and feel.
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