TTC Bluish White vs. HMX Perky
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the HMX Perky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the options can often feel overwhelming, especially when comparing models like the TTC Bluish White and HMX Perky. The Bluish White switch is celebrated for its tactile feedback, delivering a satisfyingly poppy typing experience complemented by a snappy sound profile. This switch is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of a "clicky" sensation with their keystrokes, making it an excellent choice for typists and gamers who appreciate an interactive and engaging feedback. In contrast, the HMX Perky switch leans towards a smoother operation with its linear design, offering a softer feel thanks to its glittery nylon housing. This results in a more neutral and deeply satisfying typing experience, enhanced by a shorter travel distance that caters to users who prefer a fast, fluid keystroke without the tactile bump. Each switch caters to distinct preferences and typing styles, making it crucial to consider what you value most in your keyboard experience. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T2
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
The TTC Bluish White and HMX Perky switches display an intriguing contrast in their top housing materials, utilizing polycarbonate and nylon, respectively. The polycarbonate top housing of the Bluish White is characterized by its stiffer composition, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile when typing. This rigidity allows for a higher resonance, particularly advantageous for users who enjoy the dynamic and bright aspects of their keystrokes. Moreover, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances RGB lighting effects, making it a preferred choice for gamers and aesthetic enthusiasts. In comparison, the nylon top housing of the HMX Perky delivers a different audio experience; its softer nature tends to absorb sound, resulting in a sound profile that is notably deeper and fuller. This inherent softness creates a muted, less pronounced keystroke, appealing to users who favor a more subdued and less intrusive typing experience.
Both switches share a similarity in their bottom housing, as both utilize nylon material. This commonality means that regardless of the differences in top housing, both the Bluish White and Perky will yield a deeper and richer sound profile on key press, since the nylon's sound-absorbing properties contribute significantly to the overall acoustic experience. Both switches will exhibit a rounder bottom-out sound, highlighting the softness of nylon and creating a well rounded typing experience that can appeal to typists who prefer a less harsh auditory feedback when they bottom out the keys. Because the bottom housing significantly impacts the tactile feel, this consistency in material may lead to an enjoyable experience for users who prioritize a cushioned feel in their typing sessions.
When considering the holistic experience across the two switches, it becomes evident that the material contrast in the top housings can create a distinct auditory experience that is complemented by the similar attributes of the nylon bottom housings. While the TTC Bluish White aims for a bright and vibrant sound dispersed through its polycarbonate top, the HMX Perky leans into a more mellow and rounded acoustic output due to its nylon top. However, the shared nylon bottom ensures that both switches maintain a consistent foundation of deeper sound quality, leading to a fascinating interplay in typing experiences. Ultimately, users can choose their preferred sound profile based on the top housing material, while relying on the already familiar attributes of nylon for a satisfying bottom-out feel in both switches.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, we see some similarities and subtle differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Bluish White has an actuation force of 42 grams, while the Perky requires a slightly heavier 43 grams to trigger a keystroke. Both switches share the same bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating that they both require the same amount of force to press all the way down. Overall, while the Bluish White is lighter in terms of actuation force, both switches are classified as light switches, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming without much fatigue. However, for those who prefer a more assertive typing feel, the slightly heavier actuation force of the Perky may offer a more substantial experience, even though both force levels remain relatively low.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, the Bluish White offers a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Perky has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that if you're looking for a bit more depth in your keystrokes, the Bluish White would be the better choice, providing a more tactile feel. On the other hand, the Perky, with its shorter travel distance, may appeal to those seeking quicker actuation and responsiveness, particularly favored in gaming scenarios. Both switches cater to different preferences; while the Bluish White offers a little extra depth and a tactile response, the Perky is designed for swifter and more immediate feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.63.
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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch presents a snappy sound profile, characterized by a satisfying pop that encourages enthusiastic typing. This switch is known for its engaging auditory feedback, which can be invigorating during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the HMX Perky linear switch offers a clacky sound that is sharp and percussive with every keystroke. While both switches give a distinct auditory experience, the Bluish White’s tactile nature demands a more pronounced sound, making it more suitable for those who enjoy a lively typing environment, whereas the Perky's clackiness provides a crisp, vibrant sound that is fun yet less pronounced than the heel snap of its tactile counterpart.
In terms of feel, the TTC Bluish White switch is notable for its diverse tactile characteristics, providing a buttery and polished typing experience. This means that users will experience a smooth and seamless keystroke with a discernible tactile bump that enhances each keystroke without being overwhelming. The mild and subtle nature of the Bluish White promotes a balanced typing feel approachable to most users. On the other hand, the HMX Perky linear switch provides a polished and silky typing experience, focusing on smooth key travel without any tactile feedback. The Perky excels in offering a deeply satisfying, uninterrupted keystroke, thanks to its shorter travel distance that allows for a more efficient typing experience, ideal for those who favor a more fluid and streamlined feel while typing.
Overall, both the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the HMX Perky linear switch offer unique experiences tailored to different user preferences. The Bluish White caters to those who appreciate a lively and tactile experience, engaging both the auditory and physical senses, while maintaining a smooth and mild feel. Meanwhile, the Perky excels with its clacky sound and silky smoothness, ideal for users seeking a polished typing experience with less resistance. Choose based on whether you prefer a distinctive tactile feedback or a seamless, noise-efficient experience, as both can be satisfying in their own right.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the HMX Perky linear switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and use case scenarios. If you appreciate a tactile, satisfying experience that includes a snappy sound profile and mild feedback, the Bluish White is an excellent choice. It's ideal for typists who enjoy feeling a slight bump in resistance as they type, lending itself well to both casual and professional typing environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more condensed keystroke with a polished finish that minimizes resistance, the HMX Perky switch will likely be your go-to. Its soft feel and silky smooth operation make it more suitable for those who type extensively or engage in gaming, where fast, uninterrupted key presses are paramount. Each switch has its strengths; understanding your needs will guide you to the perfect choice for your mechanical keyboard experience.
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