Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) vs. HMX Perky
An in-depth look at the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) and the HMX Perky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference for tactile feedback versus smoothness in keystrokes. The Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) stands out as a noteworthy tactile switch, celebrated for its sharp tactile feel paired with a unique blend of PBT housing that enhances the typing experience. Users can expect a pronounced tactile bump that delivers a snappy and punchy sound profile, perfect for those who revel in feedback while typing. In contrast, the HMX Perky switch offers a linear experience, characterized by its soft nylon housing and shorter travel distance, providing a silky and polished feel that appeals to those who prefer a smoother keystroke devoid of any tactile interruption. While the Moyu Blacks cater to enthusiasts who thrive on tactile sensations and sound, the Perky switches are designed for users who seek a quieter and more effortless 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
PBT
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
PBT
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) and the HMX Perky, it's evident that they utilize different plastic materials in both their top and bottom housings. The Moyu Black (Dark Jade) features PBT (polybutylene terephthalate) for both the top and bottom housing, which is known for its balanced characteristics, producing a neutral sound profile. This neutrality means that while the typing sound is neither excessively crisp nor dull, it maintains a certain clarity without standing out too prominently. In stark contrast, the HMX Perky employs nylon for its top and bottom housings. Nylon, being a softer plastic, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The material’s ability to absorb sound results in a duller and rounder typing experience, contrasting sharply with the PBT's balanced sound quality.
The differences in the housing materials also influence the overall feel and auditory experience of typing on these switches. With the Moyu Black (Dark Jade), the consistent use of PBT throughout the top and bottom housing leads to a cohesive sound that reflects its neutral characteristics. In contrast, the nylon in the Perky switch causes the typing experience to feel more rounded and less sharp due to its sound-absorbing traits. This not only affects how the switches sound when a key is pressed but also alters the perceived "feedback" during typing, making it feel softer and more muted compared to the more steadfast feel of the PBT housing.
Despite their differences, both switches aim for distinct auditory experiences tailored to user preferences. If a user desires the characteristics that both switches bring, they could expect similar sensitivity in their tactile feedback, albeit with distinct sound profiles. The Moyu Black (Dark Jade) would produce a clear, well-defined sound for typical typing, while the HMX Perky would offer a richer, cushioned auditory result. Ultimately, the choice between them will depend on an individual's preference for sound and feel, reflecting how the unique properties of each housing material define the typing experience overall.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces are notable. The Moyu Black has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, indicating a medium-heavy feel that caters to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Perky switch boasts a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it an ideal choice for users who favor a more effortless typing experience, especially during prolonged usage. Thus, while the Moyu Black offers a heavier tactile engagement, the Perky provides a lighter and more nimble response. This difference in force can significantly impact user comfort and typing style, suggesting that those who prefer a gentler touch should opt for the HMX Perky, while those looking for a firmer push should consider the Moyu Black.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distances of the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, it is evident that the Moyu Black offers a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Perky has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference suggests that typists or gamers who prefer more responsiveness in their keystrokes might lean towards the Perky switch due to its shorter travel, which can facilitate quicker response times. On the other hand, those who appreciate a more substantial feel while typing may opt for the Moyu Black, as its longer travel distance provides a more pronounced tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences regarding the depth and responsiveness of the switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) has an MSRP of $12.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) for $7.59.
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 characteristics, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) and the HMX Perky linear switches present distinct auditory experiences. The Moyu Blacks emit a resonant sound that is higher-pitched and clean, leading to a sharp, punchy typing experience. This resonance contributes to a more immersive auditory feedback that can make each keystroke feel significant. In contrast, the Perky switches produce a clacky sound profile that is crisp and bright. This sharp and snappy auditory feedback offers a lively typing experience that can evoke a sense of energy and excitement. Ultimately, both switches provide unique, enjoyable sound profiles, but the Moyu Blacks create a deeper resonance while the Perky's clackiness offers a more dynamic feel.
In terms of tactile feel, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switches deliver a notably sharp and accentuated typing experience. They feature a strong downstroke tactile bump complemented by an even more pronounced upstroke bump, resulting in a hypertactile sensation that many enthusiasts find satisfying. This tactile feedback is distinct and consistent through each keystroke, producing a balance that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. On the other hand, the Perky linear switches are characterized by their ultra-smooth, polished finish, delivering a silky and refined typing experience. These switches minimize friction, making key presses feel nearly effortless, which is quite different from the pronounced feedback of the Moyu Blacks. While the Moyu Blacks focus on providing tactile bumps, the Perky switches center around a smooth and seamless navigation through key presses, catering to different preferences in tactile sensation.
In summary, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) and HMX Perky linear switches offer very different typing experiences. The Moyu Blacks shine with their resonant sound and sharp tactile feedback, appealing to those who appreciate defined tactile sensations and auditory engagement while typing. Conversely, the Perky switches delight users with their clacky sound and silky smoothness, ideal for those who prefer a fluid typing experience without the pronounced tactile interruption. Choosing between these two ultimately depends on personal preference for sound and feel, allowing newcomers to find the perfect switch that resonates with their typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch and the HMX Perky linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal typing preferences and what you're looking to achieve in your keyboard experience. If you enjoy a more robust tactile feedback with a sharp and pronounced bump that enhances your typing rhythm, the Moyu Black is the ideal choice. Its medium-heavy feel and resonant sound profile make it well-suited for typists who appreciate a solid and confident keystroke, especially if you prefer an engaging auditory experience as you type. Conversely, if you're looking for a smoother and quieter typing experience with less resistance, the HMX Perky switch is the better option. With its lighter actuation force and polished feel, it provides a refined and satisfying typing experience that's perfect for those who might favor rapid key presses or simply a more relaxed typing style. In essence, selecting between these two switches hinges on whether you prioritize tactile feedback and sound, or smoothness and ease of use in your daily typing activities.
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