HMX KD200 vs. HMX Perky
An in-depth look at the HMX KD200 and the HMX Perky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can greatly influence your typing experience and overall satisfaction. The HMX KD200, known for being the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, offers a distinctive auditory feedback that many enthusiasts crave, making it a favorite among those who enjoy a more expressive sound profile during their typing sessions. In contrast, the HMX Perky provides a softer and glittery nylon housing, delivering a neutral and deeply satisfying feel with a shorter travel distance that condenses the typing experience. While the KD200 is ideal for users who appreciate a more pronounced auditory and tactile sensation, the Perky caters to those looking for comfort and efficiency in their typing. 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
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
T2
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX KD200 and the HMX Perky exhibit remarkable similarities in their housing materials, as both employ nylon for their top and bottom housings. Nylon is renowned for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, allowing it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. This characteristic results in a consistently duller and rounder sound when typing, which is a desirable quality for many users. Consequently, both the KD200 and Perky are designed to provide an enjoyable typing experience characterized by a rich auditory feedback that enhances the overall performance of the switches.
When considering the impact of these nylon housings on sound and feel, the similarities become even more apparent. The bottom housing, being responsible for the bottom-out sound and feel, will reflect the softer qualities of the nylon material equally in both switches. Hence, users of either the KD200 or Perky can expect a satisfying tactile response when pressing keys, accompanied by a muted but resonant sound. Similarly, the top housing plays a vital role in shaping the nature of the sound feedback upon releasing a key, reinforcing the signature sound profile present in both switches. This harmony between the top and bottom housings ensures that both models deliver a comparable auditory and tactile experience.
Overall, while the HMX KD200 and HMX Perky maintain consistency in their use of nylon as a housing material, making them fundamentally alike, any differences can influence the overall typing experience nuances. Since both switches employ nylon, they will yield similar results concerning sound depth and tactile feedback, ensuring that users who opt for either model will enjoy a consistent performance quality. The shared material attributes indeed provide a unified experience, making both switches appealing to users who value sound and tactile feedback in their keyboard setup.
Weight
When comparing the HMX KD200 linear switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, it's evident that both options offer a light typing experience, appealing to users who prefer a softer touch. The KD200 features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Perky is slightly lighter with an actuation force of 43 grams, also reaching a bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the Perky the lighter of the two switches, potentially providing a more comfortable typing experience over extended periods, suitable for long work sessions or gaming marathons. Both switches, however, share the same bottom out force, meaning they deliver a consistent feel when fully pressed down, but the Perky's slightly lower actuation force gives it an edge for those who prioritize ease of keystrokes. Overall, if one seeks a more substantial typing experience, the slightly heavier KD200 might be the preferred choice, though both switches ensure a gentle response suitable for various typing needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX KD200 linear switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, we find that the KD200 has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Perky offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the KD200 the longer option, providing a more pronounced depth when pressed down, which may appeal to users who prefer a hearty feeling while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Perky's shorter travel distance caters to those looking for more responsiveness and quicker actuation, making it ideal for gamers who require swift key presses. Hence, while both switches are relatively close in travel distance, the KD200 offers a bit more depth, whereas the Perky prioritizes a faster response.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX KD200 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the KD200 for $3.29.
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 HMX KD200 linear switch is best known for being the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, offering a pronounced auditory experience that stands out in a sea of quieter switches. This characteristic makes the KD200 particularly appealing to those who enjoy a more robust auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the HMX Perky linear switch, with its softer nylon housing, provides a more subdued auditory profile. While it may not be as loud as the KD200, the Perky's sound is still pleasing and complements its unique design for a balanced typing experience. It’s important to note that the overall sound of each switch can also be influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps used, which means that both switches can offer a tailored auditory experience based on personal setup preferences.
In terms of feel, the KD200 is celebrated for its tactile response, providing a solid typing experience that many users find satisfying. Its design lends itself to a noticeable actuation point, allowing typists to feel when a key has registered, which can enhance confidence in typing precision. In contrast, the HMX Perky linear switch offers a softer and more neutral sensation. The Perky’s unique design and shorter travel distance contribute to a typing experience that feels more condensed, allowing for quicker responses during fast typing sessions. While both switches are designed for linear actuation—which typically doesn’t include tactile feedback—they do cater to different preferences in how the actuation is perceived by the fingers.
In conclusion, both the HMX KD200 and HMX Perky linear switches present distinctive qualities that cater to varying typing preferences. The KD200’s clackiness and solid feel may attract users seeking a more pronounced auditory and tactile experience, while those who prefer a quieter and smoother typing experience may gravitate toward the Perky. Ultimately, both switches have their merits, and users can expect a tailored experience depending on their choices, whether that’s selecting the right board or keycaps to accompany their switch of choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX KD200 and the HMX Perky linear switches should be based on your specific typing preferences and the overall experience you seek. If you enjoy a clackier sound profile and a more pronounced feedback during keystrokes, then the KD200 would be your ideal choice. Its unique auditory character makes it perfect for those who thrive on tactile feedback and want to keep their typing session lively and engaging. Conversely, if you prefer a smoother, more neutral typing experience with a softer touch and shorter travel distance, the Perky switch would be better suited for you. Its glittery nylon housing adds a touch of charm while offering a deeply satisfying feel that many typists find enjoyable, especially during long typing sessions. Ultimately, consider how sound, feel, and overall ergonomics align with your personal preferences to make your decision easier and ensure a delightful typing experience.
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