Are there any alternatives to an electric actuator?

[Austin.Loach]

What I'm looking for is something to do a "swing-like" motion (picture a human arm swinging a sword, for example). I was originally thinking a little motor with a gearbox to slow it down a whole lot would be good, but the idea of an electric actuator was brought to me. I watched a few videos but I need something faster than an electric actuator. Keep in mind I'm already spending a whole lot of money on this robot so please keep it as cheap as possible. Also, I'm rather new to robotics so if you could keep as many things simple that would be appreciated! lol Thank you in advance everybody!