HMX Swift vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the HMX Swift and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the unique qualities of different models to determine which best suits their typing style and preferences. The HMX Swift is celebrated for its deeper sound profile and silky smooth actuation, making it an appealing choice for those who appreciate a clackier, more tactile experience. Its lightweight 42g actuation force brings a feathery and bouncy quality that many users find delightful for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) offers a distinctly different take with its heavier feel and higher-pitched resonance, thanks to its PA12 top housing and POM stem. This switch combines subtle sophistication with precise performance, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a more robust feedback during their interactions. While the Swift leans toward a softer, creamier typing experience, the Xinhai (Heavy) caters to those who seek a crisp sound and firmer keypress. 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
42g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Swift and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) share a commonality in their design, utilizing nylon for both their top and bottom housings. This choice of material is significant as nylon is well-regarded in the keyboard community for its sonic properties. The deeper and fuller sound profile elicited from switches using nylon enhances the typing experience by producing a duller and rounder sound. This acoustic quality can largely be attributed to nylon’s softer nature, which allows it to absorb sound waves more effectively than harder plastics, leading to an overall more muted sound when typing. Consequently, both the Swift and Xinhai (Heavy) are poised to deliver a satisfying auditory feedback to users.
Despite the similarity in materials, the placement of the nylon within each switch has its implications for the typing experience. In a typical keyboard scenario, the bottom housing of a switch has a more pronounced influence on the bottom-out sound and feedback feel, while the top housing predominantly affects the sound profile during the release of a key. Since both the Swift and Xinhai (Heavy) are constructed from nylon in both the top and bottom housings, users can expect similar auditory feedback during keystrokes regardless of which model they choose. This unification of material contributes to a consistent typing experience across different contexts, whether one is gaming or typing out a long document.
However, the specific effects of the housing materials may vary subtly based on design nuances and internal switch configurations. While the base sound profile remains consistent due to the shared nylon composition, features such as switch firmness, travel distance, and actuation force could differ from one model to another. These factors can create unique tactile experiences even when the essential material composition stays the same. Thus, while both the HMX Swift and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) promise a satisfying tactile and auditory experience, individual preferences and gaming contexts may lead users to gravitate towards one model over the other based on these nuanced differences.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Swift linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, notable differences arise in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Swift is lighter, with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for long typing sessions or gaming marathons, where a less strenuous keypress is preferable. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) features a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, giving users a more substantial feel when typing, which may appeal to those who enjoy a firmer keypress for a more tactile experience. While the Swift allows for quick and effortless keystrokes, the Xinhai offers a stronger push, catering to different user preferences in typing mechanics and comfort. Overall, the Swift is the lighter option ideal for extended use, whereas the Xinhai provides a heavier, more tactile feedback for those who favor a stronger keystroke sensation.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Swift linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, the differences are quite notable. The Swift features a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Xinhai (Heavy) has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Xinhai (Heavy) is the shorter option, making it potentially more attractive for those who prefer quicker responsiveness, such as gamers looking for faster actuation. Conversely, the Swift's longer distance of 3.9 mm may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial feel and deeper key presses, providing a less abrupt action. Thus, the choice between the two switches largely hinges on individual preferences regarding responsiveness versus depth in keystrokes.
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 HMX Xinhai (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai (Heavy) for $3.19.
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 HMX Swift linear switch is characterized by its deeper sound profile, attributed to its full nylon housing, allowing for a clacky sound that's crisp and bright with a sharp, snappy character. This makes for an engaging auditory experience when typing. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch features a PA12 top housing that contributes to softer acoustic qualities coupled with a POM stem, delivering a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance. This suggests a more sophisticated sound that could appeal to users seeking a more refined auditory feedback. Therefore, while both switches offer unique sound signatures, the Swift provides a deeper and clackier experience compared to the Xinhai's sophisticated and softer tones.
In terms of feel, the Swift excels with a combination of descriptors that paint a picture of a switch designed for comfort and ease of use. Its 42g actuation force makes it easy to press, promoting a typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue. Users can expect a feathery, almost effortless experience while typing, complemented by a bouncy feel that provides lively feedback with each keystroke. The overall smoothness of the Swift creates a creamy sensation, enhancing the comfort during prolonged use. In comparison, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) does not have specific descriptors available to evaluate, making it difficult to assess its tactile experience. However, based on what we know of typical HMX switches, it may offer a different but equally enjoyable feel.
In conclusion, both the HMX Swift and the Xinhai (Heavy) linear switches provide distinct audio and tactile experiences, catering to different preferences. The Swift stands out with its pronounced clacky sound and comfortable, easy-to-press feel, making it ideal for those who prioritize smoothness and minimal effort. The Xinhai (Heavy), with its sophisticated softer sound and potential feel attributes, may appeal to users looking for a more elegant typing experience. While both switches cater to a range of preferences, the choice ultimately depends on individual sound and feel preferences, ensuring that whichever switch one chooses will yield satisfactory results.
Conclusion
In summary, the choice between the HMX Swift linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch primarily comes down to your personal preferences for tactile feedback, sound, and typing dynamics. If you prefer a lighter actuation force that allows for effortless typing, reducing finger fatigue during extended use, the Swift is your best bet with its 42g actuation force and bottom-out force of 50 grams. Its unique clacky sound signature and silky smooth feel make it particularly enjoyable for both typing and gaming sessions. On the other hand, if you're seeking a more robust and precise typing experience, the Xinhai (Heavy) with its 62.5 grams bottom-out force may be preferable, offering a refined tactility and a subtly sophisticated acoustic profile due to its unique materials. Ultimately, consider how each switch aligns with your typing style and preferences: whether you lean towards a bouncier, more responsive feel or favor a heavier, more deliberate press. Your choice will enhance your overall keyboard experience, so think about which switch will best complement your usage patterns and sound preferences.
Mentioned in this article
