Gateron Aliaz vs. HMX Perky
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the HMX Perky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Aliaz and HMX Perky offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Aliaz switches are renowned for their silent operation, making them ideal for quiet environments like offices, where noise reduction is a priority. With a medium-heavy weight, these tactile switches provide a pronounced feedback without the disruptive sound, resulting in a typing experience that feels both substantial and refined. In contrast, the HMX Perky switches deliver a different kind of satisfaction with their softer, glittery nylon housing. These linear switches feature a shorter travel distance, promoting a more condensed and fluid typing experience that some users find deeply gratifying. Each switch has its unique appeals: the Aliaz excels in environments demanding discretion, while the Perky caters to those who appreciate a smooth and fast-paced typing feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T2
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Aliaz and HMX Perky switches feature distinct housing materials that significantly influence their overall sound profiles and typing experiences. The Aliaz utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings. This choice of material contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, as polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that produces a more resonant tone. A key advantage of polycarbonate is its translucent nature, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of lighting setups, particularly with RGB lighting. In contrast, the HMX Perky switches feature nylon for both top and bottom housings, a classic switch material known for its ability to generate a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition allows it to absorb more sound, creating a duller, rounder acoustic experience that many typists find satisfying.
When contrasting the two switches, a fundamental difference emerges in how the top housing materials influence the sound during actuation and release. The Aliaz's polycarbonate top housing sharpens the auditory feedback of key releases, allowing for a pronounced sound when the key is released. Conversely, the nylon top housing of the Perky provides a softer sound, contributing to a more muted release that may be preferable for users seeking a quieter typing experience. While both switches aim to provide unique auditory feedback, the difference in top housing materials means that typists will experience distinguishable sound profiles: the Aliaz will maintain a crisper, more vibrant sound, whereas the Perky will offer a more subdued and mellow tone.
Despite their contrasts, both switches can achieve a range of typing experiences based on their unique material compositions. If a user appreciates the characteristics of the Aliaz but desires a different feel, they might find the softness of the nylon used in the HMX Perky beneficial, as it leads to a smoother bottoming-out experience. The split between top and bottom housing materials further illustrates how each component affects the overall sound and feel of a switch. With the right typing style and personal preferences, users can derive a level of enjoyment from either switch, making the choice between the sharper Aliaz and the fuller-sounding Perky one of personal taste.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, there is a notable difference in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Aliaz features a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Perky has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, appealing to users who value a more comfortable touch, especially during extended typing or gaming sessions. Consequently, the Aliaz would be ideal for individuals seeking a firmer push feel, while the Perky caters to those who favor ease of use with its lighter responsiveness. Overall, if you prioritize a heavier feel for durability and a pronounced tactile feedback, the Aliaz is the way to go; otherwise, the lighter Perky switch will enhance your typing comfort and reduce fatigue over long periods.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Perky linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference suggests that the Aliaz provides a more substantial depth when pressed, which some users may prefer for a more tactile and satisfying experience while typing or gaming. Conversely, the shorter 3.4 mm travel distance of the Perky switch may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times, making it easier to execute rapid keystrokes. The Aliaz's longer travel distance offers a traditional feel, while the Perky's shorter distance caters to those who favor a more responsive and fast-paced interaction. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences regarding the balance between depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The HMX Perky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Perky 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 Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is designed for quiet operations, making it an ideal choice for office environments where noise can be disruptive. Its sound profile is categorized as muted, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to traditional mechanical switches. This means that, while typing, the Aliaz allows for a more discreet experience, minimizing the auditory disturbances that often accompany keystrokes. In contrast, the HMX Perky linear switch does not have specific sound characteristics documented at this time. However, users can still anticipate a relatively quiet operation, as linear switches tend to exhibit a less pronounced sound than clicky alternatives, although the sound performance can ultimately depend on the keyboard build and keycap choices.
When it comes to feel, the Aliaz switch shines with its silky and polished qualities. These elements contribute to an exceptionally smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance and friction with each keystroke. The medium-heavy weight of the Aliaz also provides a substantial and satisfying feedback, making it suitable for users who enjoy a tactile response without overwhelming force. The HMX Perky linear switch, on the other hand, lacks specific descriptors for its feel, but linear switches typically offer a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke experience, which might appeal to those who prefer quick, fluid motions over tactile bumps.
In conclusion, choosing between the Gateron Aliaz and the HMX Perky switches largely comes down to personal preference regarding sound and typing feel. The Aliaz excels in offering a quieter and more tactile sensation, making it a strong candidate for work-focused environments, while the Perky's performance remains more generalized due to limited detailing. Those who appreciate a muted sound will favor the Aliaz, while fast typists may find the inherent smoothness of both switches provides a satisfying experience, even if the specific attributes of the Perky are yet to be fully established. Ultimately, either choice can yield a pleasant typing experience, but the Aliaz offers distinct advantages in sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the HMX Perky linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and environment. If you work in a quiet setting, such as an office, or you simply prefer a more substantial feedback with each keystroke, the Aliaz switches are an excellent option. Their muted sound and silky, polished feel provide a satisfying typing experience while minimizing disruptions to those around you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a lighter and more condensed typing experience, the Perky switches would be the better choice. With their soft bottom-out force, these switches offer a neutral and deeply satisfying feel, ideal for fast typing without the heavier resistance of the Aliaz. Ultimately, your decision should align with your personal comfort and the settings in which you plan to use your keyboard.
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