Bsun Cliff vs. HMX Perky
An in-depth look at the Bsun Cliff and the HMX Perky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the merits of tactile versus linear options, such as the Bsun Cliff and the HMX Perky. The Cliff tactile switches are renowned for their medium tactility and crisp sound signature, making them an invigorating choice for those who enjoy a tactile bump and audible feedback during their typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Perky switches offer a softer typing sensation with their glittery nylon housings, providing a polished and silky feel that is perfect for users seeking a more neutral and satisfying response. The Perky's shorter travel distance also contributes to a more condensed typing experience, making it ideal for fast typists. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may boil down to personal preference: whether you crave that tactile feedback and sound with the Cliff or a smooth and swift keystroke with the Perky. 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
37g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Cliff and the HMX Perky, a notable distinction lies in the materials used for their top housings. The Bsun Cliff utilizes polycarbonate, while the HMX Perky is constructed with nylon. This choice impacts the overall sound profile produced by each switch. The polycarbonate top housing of the Cliff creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to its stiffer properties. This is particularly beneficial for users who favor a more vibrant auditory feedback when typing. Conversely, the nylon top housing in the HMX Perky engenders a deeper and fuller sound profile, resulting in a more subdued auditory experience. This deep sound is a function of nylon's softer composition, which inherently absorbs more sound, leading to less resonance with each keystroke.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Bsun Cliff and the HMX Perky utilize nylon, providing consistency in the auditory experience at this level. The use of nylon in both models ensures that the deeper and rounder sound associated with this material is uniform across both switches. This shared material between the switches contributes to the overall compatibility of sound profiles, despite the distinct characteristics introduced by their respective top housings. In feeling the bottom-out during key presses, users will appreciate the familiar fuller sound attributed to the nylon material, which will be consistent in both switches.
Ultimately, the combination of different materials for the top and bottom housings in the Bsun Cliff and HMX Perky results in a unique sound experience for each. While the Cliff leans towards high-pitched, resonant sounds attributed to polycarbonate at the top, the Perky offers a more muted and rounded sound profile from its nylon top. However, the consistency provided by the nylon bottom housing in both models ensures that users will experience a rich, deep sound when bottoming out, highlighting the importance of material choice in defining the dynamic acoustic performance of mechanical switches. Together, they illustrate how different materials can complement one another, resulting in an overall varied yet cohesive typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, it is evident that both switches offer a light typing experience, but they do have some differences in their force specifications. The Cliff has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Perky requires a slightly higher actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Cliff switch is the lighter option, making it more suitable for users who prefer less resistance for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Perky switch provides a heavier push feel, which some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. Despite both being classified as light switches, the differences in their forces suggest that typists who favor an overall lighter feel may gravitate towards the Bsun Cliff.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, the Cliff measures at 3.6 mm, while the Perky has a slightly shorter distance of 3.4 mm. This difference highlights a preference for more traditional travel distances in the Cliff, as it is closer to the classic 4.0 mm. On the other hand, the Perky's shorter travel distance is more aligned with the modern trend of faster response times, which is often preferred by gamers. While both switches cater to different user preferences, this variation suggests that those looking for a more tactile and pronounced feedback may favor the Cliff, while users seeking speed and efficiency may choose the Perky. Overall, the Cliff offers a longer travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the Perky’s 3.4 mm.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Cliff has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cliff for $2.19.
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 Bsun Cliff tactile switch produces a medium, crisp sound signature that is likely to provide a satisfying auditory feedback during typing. This contrasts with the HMX Perky linear switch, which delivers a clacky sound characterized by a sharp and bright tonal quality. The Perky's sound is percussive and engaging, creating an energetic typing atmosphere. However, it’s important to note that the overall sound experience will ultimately depend on the keyboard design and the keycap materials, meaning that these differences may be less pronounced depending on how each switch is utilized in custom builds.
In terms of feel, the Cliff switch offers an invigorating experience with pronounced tactile feedback, providing a snappy and responsive sensation upon actuation. Its moderate to firm actuation force lends an energetic typing experience that can be quite immersive. On the other hand, the Perky switch boasts a polished and silky typing feel. The refined finish, likely due to high-quality materials and factory lubing, offers a smooth and seamless key travel that minimizes friction, making for an enjoyable typing experience that feels effortlessly smooth.
In summary, both the Bsun Cliff and HMX Perky switches cater to different preferences. The Cliff offers a pronounced tactile feedback and a crisp sound, ideal for those looking for an engaging, responsive typing experience. In contrast, the Perky provides a smoother and softer feel with clacky auditory feedback, appealing to enthusiasts who favor a more subdued yet satisfying linear typing experience. Both switches create engaging typing atmospheres, but their differing characteristics allow you to choose based on your personal preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the HMX Perky linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy the invigorating feel of pronounced feedback and a more tactile experience, the Cliff may be the right option for you. The 45-gram actuation force provides a light touch that still delivers a satisfying tactile response, making it ideal for typing enthusiasts who appreciate a snappy and reactive sensation. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, more polished typing experience, the Perky linear switch is an excellent choice. With its slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams and a condensed travel distance, it offers a silky and refined feel that minimizes friction and ensures a more fluid typing action. Additionally, if sound is a priority, the clacky audio signature of the Perky may appeal to you more, as it provides a crisp, bright sound with each keystroke. Ultimately, consider how you like to use your keyboard—whether you prioritize a tactile and immersive experience with the Cliff or a smooth, satisfying action with the Perky—so you can make a choice that best fits your typing lifestyle.
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