HMX Jelly vs. HMX Perky

Overview

When it comes to the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Jelly and HMX Perky stand out as appealing options for enthusiasts seeking a satisfying typing experience. The Jelly, known for its low-pitched thocky sound signature, provides a smooth keystroke enhanced by excellent factory lubrication and a lightweight 42g actuation force, making it a great choice for gamers and typists who appreciate auditory feedback along with a gentle touch. In contrast, the Perky switch is designed with softer, glittery nylon housings that offer a neutral and deeply satisfying feel, thanks to its shorter travel distance, which allows for quicker typing and less finger fatigue. While both switches fall into the linear category, catering to those who prefer seamless key presses without tactile bumps, their distinct sound and feel bring unique character to the typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Jelly Linear

HMX Perky Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

Both the HMX Jelly and HMX Perky switches utilize nylon for both their top and bottom housings, which ensures a consistent acoustic and tactile performance across both models. This shared housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile during use, a quality intrinsic to nylon’s softer composition. The sound dampening characteristics of nylon lend themselves to a more muted auditory experience, producing a rounder and less harsh sound when the keys are engaged. As a result, users of both switch types can expect a similar auditory ambiance that favors a more pleasant typing experience.

The Nylon bottom housing plays a crucial role in influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches. Since both the Jelly and Perky utilize nylon in their bottom housings, this means that users can anticipate a uniform tactile feedback upon key press, characterized by a restrained yet satisfying bottom-out sound. This similarity in material usage allows both switches to deliver comparable performance in terms of the impact felt at the activation point, further enhancing the typing experience regardless of which switching option is chosen.

Conversely, while both the Jelly and Perky switches exhibit similar acoustic properties due to their nylon housing, there may be subtle variations stemming from other design elements or switch mechanisms outside of the housing material itself. However, since the foundational material is the same, users can be assured that any differences in the typing experience will be less about sound quality and more about the overall design intentions. In essence, whether using the Jelly or Perky, users can relish in the benefits of using nylon for both the top and bottom housings, thereby gaining a harmonized experience characterized by deeper acoustics and a soft tactile response.

Weight

The HMX Jelly and HMX Perky linear switches exhibit comparable qualities, with both classified as light options. The Jelly features an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Perky has slightly higher measurements with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Jelly is the lighter switch, requiring slightly less force to actuate and bottom out compared to the Perky. For users who prefer a lighter typing experience—ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming—the Jelly might be the more suitable choice. However, the Perky offers a marginally firmer feel, which could appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial push when typing. Overall, both switches provide a lightweight option, but the slight differences in force characterize distinct user preferences.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Jelly linear switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, the Jelly offers a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Perky is shorter at 3.4 mm. This makes the Perky a more responsive option, catering to gamers who favor quicker key actuation for faster response times. However, for users who appreciate a more substantial feel when pressing the keys, the Jelly's longer travel distance provides a greater depth, making it the preferable choice for those who find shorter distances too abrupt. In summary, if responsiveness is your priority, the Perky's shorter travel distance is ideal, whereas the Jelly appeals to those who enjoy a more pronounced keypress experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Jelly linear switch delivers a low-pitched, deep, thocky sound signature that many typists find satisfying, particularly for those who enjoy a more muted auditory experience. This sound profile can contribute to a pleasant atmosphere when typing, especially in quieter environments. On the other hand, the HMX Perky linear switch boasts a softer sound, likely due to its nylon housing, which may give it a less pronounced auditory impact. However, it is essential to remember that the overall sound produced by any switch is also heavily influenced by the choice of keyboard plate and keycaps utilized, meaning users could achieve a variety of tonal qualities with both options.

When it comes to feel, the Jelly switch stands out for its exceptional smoothness, which is attributed to excellent factory lubrication, combined with a lightweight actuation force of 42 grams that makes it effortless to press. This smoothness can lead to a very fluid typing experience, allowing for minimal resistance with each keystroke. In contrast, the Perky switch provides a different tactile sensation, described as neutral yet deeply satisfying, likely resulting from its shorter travel distance. This feature contributes to a more condensed typing experience, making the Perky feel snappier, which might appeal to users looking for speed and efficiency in their typing.

In summary, both the HMX Jelly and HMX Perky linear switches offer unique auditory and tactile experiences, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Jelly excels with its deep and satisfying sound profile and super smooth feel, making it ideal for those who favor a more immersive and engaging typing session. Meanwhile, the Perky's softer sound and condensed feel cater to users seeking a quicker, more efficient typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide distinct merits, and individuals can expect satisfying results from either choice, depending on their personal preferences.

Conclusion

To wrap up, your choice between the HMX Jelly linear switch and the HMX Perky linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. If you prefer a switch that offers a lightweight, smooth keystroke with a pronounced, deep thocky sound signature, then the HMX Jelly would be your ideal choice. Its actuation force of 42 grams allows for fast and effortless typing, making it particularly beneficial for gaming or extensive typing sessions where quick responses are key. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a solid, satisfying typing experience with a slightly firmer bottom-out force of 50 grams and a more condensed travel distance, then the HMX Perky switch may be the better option. Its softer, glittery nylon housing not only enhances the feel but contributes to a more balanced sound profile, making it excellent for those who appreciate a neutral and polished touch while typing. Ultimately, your preference for sound and tactile feedback will guide you in selecting the switch that best aligns with your typing habits and aesthetic desires.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Jelly Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

HMX Perky Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more