[DFras]

Hi Marc,
This is sort of a "Ford or Chevy" deal. Both presses are good, both suppliers are good, both styles have benefits.
The swingarm will let you move the heat away from your work area, But, takes up more space in operating. The clam, less space needed but the heat platen will always be just over your work area. I use a clam (HIX) and like it just fine. Have never had a problem with it. Some people will swear by the Swingarm and they won't be wrong,For Them.
You should be fine with either choice.
Happy Pressing!

 

[DFras]

Both are good brands. The nice thing about a clam shell is that its only a two step operation, up & down. A swing arm has four steps, up, swing away, swing back over & down. Still a matter of preference. The main differences between the Mighty Press & The Hix are teflon coated (Mighty Press) or uncoated platen (Hix)? Floatational Heat platen on top (Mighty press) or floating platen on bottom (Hix). Over the center pressure adjustment knob (Mighty Press) or Pressure adjustment in back of the press (Hix).

Now, there is a man who knows his heat press!
Josh, Thanks for pointing out some of the finer differences.