Gateron Melodic vs. HMX Perky
An in-depth look at the Gateron Melodic and the HMX Perky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Melodic and the HMX Perky stand out as two distinct options catering to different typing preferences. The Melodic is a clicky switch that reinvigorates the traditional clicky experience with modern enhancements like smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, delivering a satisfying auditory and tactile feedback characterized as buttery, resonant, and invigorating. This makes it an excellent choice for users who crave the nostalgic sounds of typing and the distinct feel of a clicky switch. On the other hand, the HMX Perky, with its softer and glittery nylon housings, offers a linear typing experience that prioritizes subtlety and responsiveness, allowing for a more condensed typing experience due to its shorter travel distance. This switch would appeal to those who prefer a quieter and smoother typing environment without the distraction of clicks. Both switches offer unique advantages tailored to different user preferences; 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
N/A
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Gateron Melodic and HMX Perky switches, the housing materials used for the top parts of the switches reveal significant differences that impact their sound profiles. The Melodic features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for delivering a sharper, crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This property allows these switches to produce a more resonant sound that is particularly suited for use with RGB lighting, since the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the lighting effects. In contrast, the HMX Perky is equipped with a nylon top housing, a classic choice that provides a fuller and deeper sound profile. The relative softness of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a dulled and rounder auditory experience. Therefore, while the Melodic creates a bright sound that stands out, the Perky offers a warm and muted acoustic signature.
Examining the bottom housings of the two switches reveals a uniformity between the Melodic and Perky, as both utilize nylon for this component. Nylon is well-regarded in switch design for its ability to absorb sound, which enhances the depth and fullness of the overall sound profile experienced during typing. As a result, regardless of the differences in their top housings, both the Melodic and Perky will produce a similar bottom-out sound characterized by the muffled quality of the nylon material. This shared component ensures that users of either switch can expect a consistent tactile and auditory experience when bottoming out, providing common ground that balances the distinct effects of the varying top housings.
In summary, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Melodic's housing leads to a bright and resonant sound on the actuation, while the all-nylon configuration of the Perky results in a muted profile. Although the sound characteristics while typing differ due to the top housing materials, both switches maintain a comparable auditory experience when bottoming out, thanks to their shared nylon bottom housings. Thus, users can expect distinct sound signatures during typing and release but an overall similarity in the fuller sound that is typical of nylon materials when the keys are pressed completely down. This combination underscores the importance of housing materials in defining the unique acoustic identities of keyboard switches while also emphasizing potential commonalities in user experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, the notable difference lies in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Melodic switch has an unspecified actuation force, making it difficult to assess its sensitivity and initial push feel, but it features a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is considered medium. On the other hand, the Perky switch has a defined actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating it is on the lighter side. As a result, typists who prefer a lighter touch may gravitate towards the Perky switch, which provides a softer and less fatiguing typing experience over extended periods. In contrast, the Melodic's heavier bottom out force may appeal to users who favor a more substantial typing feedback. Thus, while the Melodic may offer a unique experience, the Perky clearly stands out as the easier option for prolonged use due to its lighter actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Melodic clicky switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Perky linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Melodic provides a more pronounced depth when pressed, potentially offering a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who enjoy a hearty keypress. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the Perky switch may appeal to gamers and typists who prioritize quick response times and a more immediate actuation. While both switches serve different preferences— with the Melodic being better suited for users who appreciate a deeper feel and the Perky for those seeking a rapid tactile experience— it's clear that the Gateron Melodic has the longer travel distance at 4 mm compared to the HMX Perky's 3.4 mm.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 Gateron Melodic clicky switch stands out with its distinct resonant and crunchy auditory characteristics. Users will experience a higher-pitched, clean, and sharp sound profile that adds a layer of excitement to each keystroke, reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves. This engaging sound quality makes it particularly appealing to those who value auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the HMX Perky linear switch does not have a defined sound profile known at this time, which may signify a quieter operation typically associated with linear switches. The absence of clicky feedback in the Perky could lead to a more muted typing experience overall, appealing to those who favor a subtler auditory environment.
In terms of feel, the Melodic switches deliver a buttery smoothness combined with a firm and invigorating actuation. This fluid keystroke experience is complemented by pronounced feedback, creating a dynamic typing sensation that many enthusiasts crave. The Melodic’s moderate to firm actuation force enhances the responsiveness of each keypress, making it a joy to engage with during both typing and gaming sessions. In contrast, the feel of the Perky linear switch remains unknown, leaving a gap for potential users who might prefer something specific in terms of tactile feedback and resistance.
Overall, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offers a lively auditory experience paired with a satisfying tactile feel, making it an excellent choice for users who appreciate pronounced feedback and sound. Meanwhile, the HMX Perky switch appeals to those who seek a quieter, linear typing experience, albeit with less clarity in terms of available feedback characteristics. For newcomers, if sound and feel are priorities, the Melodic switch will likely provide a more engaging typing experience, while the Perky switch may serve those who prefer a more subdued setup. Choosing between these switches ultimately boils down to personal preference and the specific typing experience one desires.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the HMX Perky linear switch largely depends on your typing preferences and the experience you seek. If you enjoy a classic clicky sound combined with tactile feedback and a moderate actuation force, the Melodic switch would be an excellent fit for you. Its resonant and crunchy acoustic profile offers an engaging auditory experience, while the buttery feel enhances your typing flow, making it ideal for those who crave a bit of nostalgia or enjoy typing with definitive audio cues. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter, smoother keystroke with a neutral feel, the Perky switch might be more suited to your style. Its 50-gram actuation force allows for rapid typing without much resistance, and the satisfying travel distance caters to those who value a condensed yet fulfilling typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you prioritize sound and tactile feedback or smoothness and ease of use.
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