Cherry MX Speed Silver vs. HMX Perky
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the HMX Perky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the HMX Perky offer distinct experiences tailored to different user preferences and needs. The MX Speed Silver is renowned for its rapid response capabilities, making it a favorite among gamers who require split-second accuracy; its full-height design combined with low spring resistance ensures that each keystroke triggers instantly, heightening performance when every millisecond counts. The sound profile is characterized as textured, thocky, and low-pitched, appealing to those who enjoy a satisfying auditory feedback. In contrast, the HMX Perky switches feature softer, glittery nylon housings that provide a more neutral and deeply satisfying typing experience, further enhanced by a shorter travel distance that leads to a more condensed feel as you type. While the Speed Silver excels in fast-paced gaming scenarios, the Perky offers a more leisurely and enjoyable typing experience, making it ideal for prolonged use, whether you're crafting documents or engaging in casual chats. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
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
The housing materials of the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the HMX Perky are distinctly notable as they both utilize nylon as their primary material for both the top and bottom housings. This shared component brings a consistency in the overall typing experience, emphasizing characteristics commonly associated with nylon. As a classic switch housing material, nylon is celebrated for its ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is particularly important for users who value sound quality in their typing experience, as the inherent properties of nylon allow it to absorb sound more effectively compared to harder plastics. Consequently, this results in a duller and rounder sound, which can enhance the auditory feedback that users expect when interacting with their keyboards.
Despite the similarity in material, the potential nuances between the two models arise from the way the nylon is utilized in each switch. For both the MX Speed Silver and the Perky, the nylon top housing plays a key role in shaping the sound produced upon releasing a key. Both switches will deliver a plush auditory experience due to the properties of nylon, but the specific design and engineering might still lead to subtle differences in acoustics or feel depending on other factors like switch actuation and overall switch architecture. However, overall users can expect similar auditory feedback when typing on either model due to their use of nylon.
Furthermore, the bottom housings of both switches contribute to the overall typing experience as well. Since the bottom housing typically has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, both the MX Speed Silver and the HMX Perky will exhibit a satisfying typing experience characterized by a cushioned impact. The shared nylon material means that users can anticipate a comparable tactile feedback, which adds to the comfort and enjoyment during extended typing sessions. In summary, while both switches incorporate the same materials for their housings, they promise a consistent sound and tactile experience that can converge into a similarly satisfying outcome for users.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, the actuation and bottom out forces reveal distinct characteristics. The Cherry MX Speed Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the HMX Perky is slightly lighter at 43 grams, making the Perky a better option for those who prefer a less taxing typing experience for extended periods. However, the bottom out force for the Cherry MX Speed Silver is unavailable, while the HMX Perky has a bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating that it requires a firmer push to reach the bottom of the switch. This makes the HMX Perky noticeably heavier in terms of overall feel, which might satisfy users looking for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, if someone favors a lighter switch for comfort, the HMX Perky would be the ideal choice; conversely, the added resistance in the bottom out force of the Perky would appeal to those who enjoy a more robust tactile feedback when typing.
Travel distance
Both the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the HMX Perky linear switches feature an identical travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that users can expect a similar tactile experience when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch, as the distance required to actuate the switch is the same. Consequently, both switches will yield comparable results in terms of key presses, making them suitable options for those who prioritize consistent performance in their typing or gaming experiences. With no difference in travel distance, users can choose either switch based on other preferences, such as feel or brand familiarity.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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 Cherry MX Speed Silver switch produces a thocky and low-pitched noise, creating a deep and rich auditory experience as keys are pressed and released. This sound profile, characterized by a satisfying "thud" or soft "knock," enhances the typing or gaming experience by providing feedback that is both enjoyable and distinct. In contrast, the HMX Perky switch does not have specific sound descriptors available; thus, its acoustic qualities remain unknown. However, it’s important to note that the overall sound produced by any switch can be heavily influenced by the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used, so the Perky may still deliver a pleasant experience despite the lack of sound details.
In terms of feel, the MX Speed Silver is known for its textured quality, which provides noticeable friction when keys are pressed. This characteristic tends to appeal to users who enjoy a more tactile typing experience, adding a level of engagement during both gaming and typing. On the other hand, the feel of the HMX Perky switch is not specified, leaving a gap in understanding how it compares in terms of tactile feedback and smoothness. Without specific descriptors, we can't draw a direct comparison in feel, but the Perky's intended design hints at a potentially smooth typing experience.
In summary, while both the Cherry MX Speed Silver and HMX Perky linear switches boast attributes that cater to different preferences, the MX Speed Silver is distinguished by its thocky, low-pitched sound and textured feel, making it highly appealing for gamers and fast typists. The HMX Perky, however, lacks defined sound and feel qualities, creating an unknown but potentially satisfactory experience. If you are considering these switches, you may find them offering similarly effective results in terms of speed and responsiveness, but the distinctive auditory and tactile elements of the Speed Silver will likely set it apart unless the Perky surprises with an equally engaging performance.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, your primary focus should be on your intended use. If you are a gamer who thrives on speed and rapid response, the MX Speed Silver is an excellent choice; its low spring resistance and full-height design create a switch that registers keystrokes almost instantly, giving you an edge in fast-paced gaming scenarios. Its thocky sound profile enhances the experience, making every keypress feel satisfying while maintaining a low-pitched tone that may appeal to those who prefer a more subdued auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you primarily engage in typing and appreciate a more leisurely yet rewarding experience, the HMX Perky could be your ideal companion. With a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and a softer housing, it provides a neutral and comforting tactile feedback, making it suitable for long typing sessions. Its shorter travel distance allows for a more condensed typing experience, which could be beneficial for everyday productivity. In the end, the decision hinges on whether you prioritize speedy performance for gaming or a delightful typing experience for general use.
Mentioned in this article
