Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro vs. HMX Perky
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the HMX Perky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that cater to different typing preferences are the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the HMX Perky. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro is celebrated for its pronounced tactile bump, providing a gratifying feedback that many typists crave, along with a robust sound signature that leans towards the bassier end of the spectrum; this makes it ideal for those who enjoy a more engaging and expressive typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Perky switch features softer, glittery nylon housings that yield a smoother, linear typing feel. With a shorter travel distance, these switches promise a more condensed and swift typing experience, appealing to gamers and fast typists alike. With distinct characteristics catering to varying preferences—whether you seek tactile feedback or a smooth linear sensation—there's a lot to consider when choosing between these two. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
30g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
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
20mm spring
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the HMX Perky, a significant distinction lies in their top housings. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, a material known for its rigidity and translucence, which offers a sharper and crisper sound profile. This characteristic makes it particularly suited for RGB lighting applications, allowing the light to shine through more effectively. In contrast, the HMX Perky features a nylon top housing, which is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller acoustic experience. This difference in tonal quality reflects the inherent properties of each material, with polycarbonate amplifying higher frequencies and nylon adding warmth to the overall sound.
Interestingly, both switches utilize nylon in their bottom housings, which creates a common ground between them in terms of auditory experience. The nylon bottom housing in both the V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Perky contributes to a fuller and rounder sound profile due to its sound-absorbing properties. This means that even though the top housings create distinct characteristics, the bottom housings offer a similar sound profile for both switches. When pressed, you will feel the softness and weightiness from the nylon, resulting in a more subdued and punchy bottom-out sound. Thus, while the top housing defines the initial auditory experience, the nylon bottom housing ensures both switches share that deeper resonance.
Ultimately, the combined effects of the differing housing materials result in a multifaceted typing experience. With the V3 Creamy Purple Pro's polycarbonate top providing clarity and brightness, and the nylon bottom adding depth, you will encounter a balanced sound profile when typing. On the other hand, the HMX Perky, with its nylon top, offers a more uniformly deep experience, yet remains aligned with the V3’s bottom characteristics. Both switches, through their unique combinations of housing materials, provide satisfying typing sounds, highlighting how materials can work together to yield similar auditory outcomes even when their individual components differ.
Weight
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the HMX Perky linear switch both have a bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating they provide a consistent level of resistance when fully pressed down. However, they differ in their actuation forces; the V3 Creamy Purple Pro requires a lighter actuation force of 30 grams, while the Perky switches have a heavier actuation force of 43 grams. This difference means that the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch, making it ideal for long typing sessions or gaming marathons without causing finger fatigue. In contrast, the HMX Perky, with its heavier actuation force, offers a more substantial typing experience that some users may prefer for its tactile feedback. In summary, while both switches share the same bottom out force, their varying actuation forces cater to different typing preferences: the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro is lighter and better for prolonged use, whereas the HMX Perky is heavier, appealing to those who enjoy a firmer keystroke.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the HMX Perky linear switch exhibit different travel distances that cater to diverse user preferences. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a travel distance of 3 mm, making it a shorter option that can enhance responsiveness during fast-paced gaming. In contrast, the HMX Perky has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, offering a bit more depth for those who enjoy a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. Thus, users who favor quicker reactions may opt for the Akko switch, while those who prefer a more pronounced tactile experience might lean towards the HMX Perky. Overall, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro offers a more streamlined feel, whereas the Perky provides a slightly longer, deeper travel experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Creamy Purple Pro for $2.10.
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
In terms of sound, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch is characterized by a loud sound signature, with a pronounced bassy pitch that adds an engaging auditory element to the typing experience. This robust sound can promote a satisfying feedback loop for some users. Conversely, the HMX Perky linear switch is known for its softer sound profile, delivering a quieter experience overall. The difference in sound levels can largely affect the atmosphere of your workspace, with the Creamy Purple Pro better suited for those who enjoy a more audible typing session, while the Perky is ideal for quieter environments.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro offers a distinct typing experience marked by a large tactile bump, providing noticeable feedback with each keystroke. This tactile sensation can enhance precision and confidence while typing. On the other hand, the HMX Perky linear switch is designed for a smoother experience, with a focus on a neutral feel that many find deeply satisfying. Its shorter travel distance contributes to a rapid, fluid typing style, making it appealing to those who prefer quicker, uninterrupted strokes rather than the pronounced feedback of a tactile switch.
In summary, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and HMX Perky switches cater to different preferences when it comes to sound and feel. The Creamy Purple Pro stands out with its louder, bassy sound and prominent tactile feedback, making it perfect for users who appreciate a more engaged typing experience. Meanwhile, the Perky linear switch offers a quieter, smooth action with a more condensed travel distance, appealing to those who seek speed and subtlety in their typing. Ultimately, the choice between them will depend on whether you prioritize auditory and tactile feedback or a more subdued and fluid experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the HMX Perky linear switch ultimately hinges on the kind of typing experience and sound profile you prefer. If you enjoy a pronounced tactile feedback combined with a louder sound signature, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is an excellent choice, especially for typists who appreciate the invigorating tactile bump – ideal for those who want to feel each keystroke clearly and add a bit of auditory excitement to their typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, more neutral typing experience with a condensed travel distance, the HMX Perky switch would suit you better. Its soft nylon housing ensures a deeply satisfying feel without the tactile feedback, making it well-suited for long typing sessions or gaming, where you might prioritize speed over tactile feedback. Ultimately, consider how you intend to use your keyboard: for a tactile, yet loud experience, go with the V3 Creamy Purple Pro; for a quieter, smoother ride during fast-paced activities, the HMX Perky switch is the way to go.
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