TTC Gold Brown vs. HMX Perky
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the HMX Perky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Gold Brown and the HMX Perky offer unique experiences tailored to different preferences. The Gold Brown, renowned for its balanced design, features a tactile bump that provides just the right amount of feedback, making it an excellent choice for typists who appreciate a more engaged feel while typing. This switch is characterized by its moderate weight and a rounded sound profile, which strikes a pleasing balance between audible and discreet. On the other hand, the HMX Perky presents a linear typing experience, crafted from softer nylon housings that contribute to a smooth, consistent keystroke. With a shorter travel distance, the Perky allows for faster typing and a more condensed experience, ideal for gamers and those who prefer a quicker response without tactile interruptions. Both switches have their own merits, catering to different needs and tastes in keyboard feel and sound, 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
55g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
Yes
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
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
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown and the HMX Perky, a clear distinction emerges in their top housings. The Gold Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This is largely due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that enhances clarity and resonance. Additionally, its translucence makes it an excellent choice for RGB lighting applications, as it allows light to pass through beautifully. In contrast, the Perky utilizes a nylon top housing, a material known for its softer, more absorbent characteristics. This leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile, providing a duller and rounder auditory experience compared to the Gold Brown's crisper output.
Interestingly, both switches employ nylon for their bottom housings, which leads to a shared characteristic in the lower sound profile. The nylon's soft nature allows for sound absorption, contributing to the deeper, more rounded sound experienced when typing on both switches. Both the Gold Brown and the Perky benefit from this material choice, as nylon's acoustic properties enhance the overall experience during keystrokes. Although the top housings differ dramatically in terms of sound profile, the nylon bottoms ensure a consistent deeper sound foundation across both switches.
When it comes to the combined effect of the differing materials, the interaction of the sound profiles becomes particularly interesting. The polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Brown will yield a distinctive high-pitched release sound, while the nylon bottom housing will nonetheless provide a solid, fuller auditory experience on bottoming out. Conversely, the Perky, with its nylon top housing, will deliver a consistent, rounded sound both on key press and release. This interplay suggests that while the switches may have different top housings resulting in varying auditory experiences, the nylon bottom still creates a cohesive feel. Ultimately, both switches deliver unique sound signatures, and utilizing similar materials leads to comparable acoustic results in specific contexts, making either a great option depending on user preference.
Weight
The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the HMX Perky linear switch provide distinct actuation and bottom out force characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The Gold Brown switch features an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, making it a medium-weight option. In contrast, the HMX Perky switch is considerably lighter, with an actuation force of just 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This difference means that typists who favor a lighter switch, such as the Perky, may find it more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions, as it requires less force to engage and bottom out. On the other hand, those who appreciate a more substantial and tactile feedback might prefer the Gold Brown switch due to its heavier force profile. In summary, the TTC Gold Brown is the heavier option, while the HMX Perky is lighter, offering a choice between a medium feel and a light touch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, we find notable differences. The Gold Brown features a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered traditional and offers a more pronounced tactile feedback with a deeper feel when pressed. In contrast, the HMX Perky has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, catering to the preferences of gamers who favor quicker response times and more rapid key presses. This shorter distance can sometimes feel too abrupt for those who prefer a more substantial pressing experience. Thus, if you enjoy deeper keystrokes, the TTC Gold Brown is the better choice, while the HMX Perky would be ideal for those prioritizing responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.
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 considering the sound profile of mechanical switches, the TTC Gold Brown offers a rounded and generally subdued sound, making it much softer than many other switches while not being completely silent. This neutral sound characteristic allows for versatile use, whether at home or in an office setting, where a moderate actuation force is required but a loud clack is undesirable. In contrast, the HMX Perky linear switch's sound qualities are less documented, leaving an unknown aspect in terms of auditory experience. However, the material choice of soft, glittery nylon in the Perky could imply a pleasant acoustic feedback, though this remains speculative without specific descriptions.
In terms of feel, the Gold Brown is noted for its mild, buttery touch that creates a smooth and fluid typing experience. It delivers a tactile bump that is neither too subtle nor overwhelming, allowing for a balanced feel that most typists will find approachable. Additionally, descriptors like "polished" and "accented" hint at the smooth keystroke and refined finish, providing a seamless experience with reduced friction. The specifics of the HMX Perky switch's tactile feedback are also not detailed, leaving a gap in direct comparison. However, the mention of its shorter travel distance likely leads to a distinct typing experience, potentially providing a snappier and more compact feel, which may appeal to users who prefer rapid key presses.
In conclusion, while the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch is characterized by its soft sound profile and balanced, smooth typing experience, the HMX Perky linear switch remains less defined in both sound and feel. The rounded auditory characteristics of the Gold Brown promise a pleasant typing experience, whereas the Perky's unique material might offer different auditory sensations yet lacks detailed information. Users seeking a comfortable and versatile typing experience will likely appreciate the Gold Brown's qualities, while the appeal of the Perky will depend largely on personal preference, especially in light of its unspecified tactile feedback and sound attributes.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, your choice will significantly depend on your typing preferences and the typing context. If you value a balanced experience with a gentle tactile bump, the Gold Brown is an excellent option. With its medium bottom out force of 63 grams, it offers a satisfying yet comfortable typing feel that's suitable for extended use, whether you're typing up reports at work or gaming. The rounded sound profile adds to its versatility, making it a solid choice for shared spaces or home use. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and appreciate a more condensed typing experience, the HMX Perky linear switch would be your best bet. With a bottom out force of just 50 grams, it provides a smooth and effortless keystroke that’s perfect for fast typists and gamers who require quick responses. The softer nylon housing enhances the experience, making it inviting for both casual and serious use. Ultimately, consider the nature of your tasks and your personal comfort when making your choice between these two switches, as each offers unique advantages tailored to different typing styles.
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