Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. HMX Perky
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the HMX Perky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the HMX Perky are two noteworthy options for enthusiasts seeking a linear feel. The Ink Black V2 has earned its reputation as a classic among the keyboard community, renowned for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, providing a satisfying auditory experience thanks to its low-pitched, bassy sound profile. This makes it a compelling choice for those who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic feedback while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the HMX Perky switch stands out with its softer, glittery nylon housings, offering a neutral and deeply satisfying typing experience while benefiting from a shorter travel distance. This results in a more condensed typing experience, appealing to users who prioritize speed and efficiency without sacrificing comfort. Both switches have their unique advantages, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the HMX Perky, significant differences become evident in their construction and resultant sound profiles. The Ink Black V2 utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housing, which is noted for producing a pointed sound with a high-pitched, clacky quality. This characteristically thin and crisp auditory signature can lead to an energizing typing experience reminiscent of older mechanical switches known for their higher tonal clarity. In contrast, the HMX Perky employs nylon for both its top and bottom housing, a material recognized for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The use of nylon, a softer plastic, contributes to a rounder typing experience that is particularly appreciated in more cushioned and muted feedback.
Examining the sound profiles further illustrates how these materials affect the overall typing experience. With the Ink Black V2, the high-pitched clacking sound generated during typing is likely to be more pronounced, appealing to users who prefer a more traditional, tactile auditory feedback. In contrast, the Perky’s nylon construction yields a sound that is more subdued and less jarring, making it a preferred choice for those who seek a quieter typing experience with a touch of warmth. This distinction means that while both switches may excel in their respective areas, the overall sensory experience when typing can feel quite different, depending on which switch is chosen.
Despite their differing materials, it’s important to note that should the housing characteristics of the Ink Black V2 and the HMX Perky be similar in terms of design and structure, users may still achieve comparable results in terms of performance. For instance, if both switches are designed to emphasize tactile feedback, even with their disparate sound profiles, the feeling of the actuation could remain the same. Likewise, if each housing type is optimized for a specific typing experience, users may find that both switches offer an appealing balance of feedback and sound, albeit through different auditory signatures. Thus, while material differences play a significant role in shaping the overall experience, the fundamental mechanics of switch design can lead to overlapping performance attributes.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, there is a distinct difference in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Ink Black V2 has a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy option that provides a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. In contrast, the HMX Perky features a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, catering to those who prefer a softer touch for longer typing sessions. This difference indicates that for users seeking an effortless typing experience, the Perky is the better choice, while those who enjoy a more tactile experience with greater resistance might favor the Ink Black V2. Thus, if lighter weight switches are desired for endurance or ease of use, the Perky stands out, whereas the Ink Black V2 is suited for those who appreciate a stronger push feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Perky linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This distinction indicates that the Ink Black V2 offers a deeper and more pronounced keypress experience, which might appeal to users who prefer a more substantial tactile feedback when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Perky's shorter travel distance is geared towards those who favor quicker actuation and faster response times, making it a potentially better choice for gamers seeking immediate action without the delay of a deeper press. Ultimately, if you lean towards a gentler and more nuanced keypress, the Gateron Ink Black V2 would be the ideal option, whereas the HMX Perky is preferable for those who value speed and efficiency in their keystrokes.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Black V2 has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Black V2 for $7.24.
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 sound profile of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is characterized by a low-pitched, bassy quality, providing a rich and deep acoustics with each keystroke. The slight chirp offers a unique twist that adds a bit of personality to the typing experience, making it notably distinct. In contrast, while the sound characteristics of the HMX Perky switch are not specified, it is important to note that the auditory experience of any switch can be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps used. Thus, the Ink Black V2 provides a clearly defined sound signature, while the Perky's sound remains a mystery.
When it comes to feel, the Ink Black V2 is labeled as mild and polished, delivering a gentle and smooth typing experience. This means it strikes a balance that is approachable for most users, ensuring comfort over long typing sessions. The polished nature suggests an enhanced smoothness, likely due to quality materials or factory lubrication which minimizes friction during key travel. In contrast, the Perky switch is noted for its softer and glittery nylon housing, implying a different tactile experience that may feel neutral yet enjoyable, although no specific descriptors are provided for its feel. Both switches promise comfortable use, but the nature of the Perky's feel remains unspecified.
In summary, the Gateron Ink Black V2 showcases a rich auditory experience with its low-pitched and bassy sound, paired with a mild yet polished feel that appeals to a wide range of users. Meanwhile, the HMX Perky switch, with its softer nylon housing, offers a typing experience that leans towards neutrality but lacks detailed descriptions on sound and feel. Those looking for a definitive auditory quality may prefer the Ink Black V2, while the Perky's more unique housing style may imply a distinctive typing experience yet to be fully explored.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the HMX Perky linear switches, your choice largely depends on your personal preferences in typing force, sound, and overall experience. If you favor a more substantial feel during your keystrokes, the Ink Black V2, with its 70-gram bottom-out force, offers a medium-heavy resistance that suits typists who enjoy a tactile engagement with each press. Its low-pitched, bassy sound profile, complemented by a slight chirp, contributes to a satisfying auditory feedback that can enhance your typing rhythm, particularly for those who favor a more pronounced acoustic experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and a softer, more neutral typing experience, the HMX Perky switch, with its 50-gram bottom-out force, offers just that. The Perky's shorter travel distance and glittery nylon housing provide a condensed and smooth experience, making it ideal for fast-paced typists or those who prefer a less forceful interaction. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your individual typing style—whether you lean toward the rich, engaging sound and feel of the Ink Black V2 or the easy, satisfying glide of the Perky switch.
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