Kailh Box White V2 vs. HMX Perky
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the HMX Perky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Kailh Box White V2 and HMX Perky offer strikingly different experiences that cater to distinct preferences among typists and gamers alike. The Kailh Box White V2 is a clicky switch celebrated for its crisp tactile feedback and satisfying audible click, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy a more pronounced response during typing. This engaging sound and feel can provide heightened satisfaction and increase productivity for those who thrive on the sensation of each keystroke. In contrast, the HMX Perky switches present a linear option that emphasizes a smooth and neutral typing experience. With their softer and glittery nylon housings, these switches feature a shorter travel distance, allowing for quicker keystrokes without the distraction of sound or tactile bumps. This makes them an excellent choice for users seeking a streamlined, unencumbered typing experience, especially in fast-paced gaming scenarios. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box White V2 and the HMX Perky switches exhibit both similarities and distinct differences, particularly in their top housings. The Kailh Box White V2 features a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffer composition. This results in a clear and resonant auditory experience that is particularly effective for RGB lighting setups due to its translucence. In contrast, the HMX Perky uses a nylon top housing, which is a softer material that provides a deeper and fuller sound. This absorption of sound contributes to a duller and rounder auditory experience, effectively highlighting the contrast between the two switches in how they deliver acoustic feedback when typing.
Both switches share a commonality in their bottom housings, which are made of nylon. This consistency ensures that they will produce a similar sound profile in terms of depth and fullness when the key is bottomed out. As nylon is celebrated for absorbing sound, both switches create a united experience in terms of tactile feedback and acoustic response from the bottom housing. Therefore, the difference in the top housing materials between the Kailh Box White V2 and HMX Perky plays a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience. The sharper sound of the Box White V2 pairs with a fuller bottom-end sound from its nylon housing, while the Perky blends its top and bottom nylon housing effects for a more rounded result.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in each switch determines the user experience. The Kailh Box White V2, with its polycarbonate top and nylon bottom, appeals to those who favor a more dynamic and articulate sound when releasing keys, complemented by a deeper bottom-out sound. Conversely, the HMX Perky offers a consistent nylon experience throughout, producing a more uniform sound profile that is essentially softer and more muted. Both switch types capitalize on the distinct characteristics of nylon for the bottom housing, ensuring that despite their differences, you will still achieve satisfactory and enriching results in sound and feel when using either switch.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, both offer a light typing experience with their respective actuation and bottom out forces. The Box White V2 has an actuation force of 45 grams, slightly heavier than the HMX Perky's actuation force of 43 grams, making the Perky the lighter option when it comes to triggering a keystroke. Both switches, however, share the same bottom out force of 50 grams, meaning that regardless of their actuation forces, they will both require the same amount of force to press all the way down. For those who prefer a lighter switch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, the HMX Perky may be the better choice, while the Box White V2 provides a slightly firmer feel without exceeding the light category. Ultimately, both switches deliver a comfortable experience, but those seeking the lowest resistance during initial keystrokes would likely gravitate towards the Perky.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Perky linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that when pressing the keys, the Box White V2 provides a more pronounced tactile feedback with its longer travel, which some users may find more satisfying. In contrast, the Perky's shorter travel distance could appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times and a more direct experience, though some users might perceive it as too abrupt. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference—those who appreciate a deeper feel may favor the Kailh Box White V2, whereas those prioritizing responsiveness might lean toward the HMX Perky.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Kailh Box White V2 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Box White V2 for $3.00.
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 Kailh Box White V2 switches produce a distinctly crisp and audible click that many typists find satisfying, making them particularly well-suited for a tactile feedback experience. Their click sound is pronounced, which can be a motivating feature for those who appreciate auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the HMX Perky linear switches are characterized by their muted sound profile; they operate quietly without the prominent clicking noise associated with clicky switches. This subtlety in sound can create a more serene typing environment, appealing to those who prefer to minimize distractions or work in shared spaces. Ultimately, while the Box White V2 offers a spirited click, the Perky provides a more subdued auditory presence.
When it comes to feel, the Box White V2 switches give a pronounced tactile bump that is combined with their clicky operation, ensuring users get clear feedback when a key is actuated. This makes them an excellent choice for those who desire an interactive typing experience that reinforces each keystroke. In contrast, the HMX Perky linear switches present a different sensation, focusing on smoothness and fluidity. Their design results in a more neutral typing feel, which can be deeply satisfying over long typing sessions, as it has less resistance and no tactile bump. This results in an experience that may promote faster typing without the interruption of clicks or tactile feedback.
In summary, the Kailh Box White V2 switches provide a loud and pronounced clicky experience with a firm tactile feel, ideal for those who thrive on auditory and tactile feedback. Meanwhile, the HMX Perky switches deliver a quiet and smooth feel that appeals to users seeking a minimalistic and serene typing experience. These differences showcase the diversity in mechanical keyboard switches and highlight how individual preferences will ultimately dictate the best choice for your typing needs. Whether leaning towards the lively feedback of the Box White V2 or the subtlety of the Perky, each switch has its unique offerings that can enhance your overall keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Kailh Box White V2 and HMX Perky switches largely hinges on your personal preferences and the typing experience you seek. If you enjoy a more interactive feedback with an audible click that reinforces every keystroke, the Box White V2 is ideal for you. Its crisp tactile feedback and engaging sound make it a great choice for typists and gamers who thrive on real-time feedback, especially if you appreciate the distinctive sensation of each key press. On the other hand, if you're looking for a smoother and quieter typing experience, the HMX Perky linear switch would be your go-to option. The Perky's softer nylon housing and shorter travel distance provide a neutral and satisfying feel, perfect for those who prefer a more understated, seamless approach to typing without the extra noise and distraction. Ultimately, whether you choose the Box White V2 for its tactile auditory characteristics or the HMX Perky for its fluidity, both switches are excellent selections that cater to different typing styles and preferences.
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