Gateron Oil King (V2) vs. HMX Perky
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the HMX Perky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the HMX Perky offer distinct yet appealing characteristics for users seeking a smooth typing experience. The Gateron Oil King (V2) is praised for its buttery smoothness and a sound profile that evokes the satisfying snap of dark chocolate, making it a favorite among those who appreciate a rich auditory feedback. Its low-pitched, creamy, and polished qualities contribute to a typing sensation that feels luxurious and refined. On the other hand, the HMX Perky appeals to enthusiasts looking for a neutral and satisfying feel, thanks to its unique, softer nylon housing and shorter travel distance. This design not only promotes a more condensed typing experience but also adds a touch of glittery flair, perfect for users who value both aesthetics and performance. While both switches cater to the linear switch enthusiast, their distinct textures and sound profiles highlight the individuality of each choice. 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
55g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Oil King (V2) and HMX Perky switches both utilize nylon for their top housing, which provides a rich and fuller sound profile during typing. This common material contributes to the overall acoustic experience of both switches by absorbing sound more effectively than harder plastics, leading to a rounder, dulled sound typical of nylon-based switches. As a result, users can expect a similar auditory experience in terms of depth when pressing the keys, reinforcing a comforting and classic typing sensation across both switch types.
However, the bottom housing of each switch introduces a distinct contrast in sound profiles. The Gateron Oil King (V2) features a proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, which results in a higher-pitched, more "clacky" sound. This sharper auditory characteristic balances out the deeper qualities offered by the nylon top, resulting in a more dynamic typing experience, particularly during bottoming out. In contrast, the HMX Perky uses nylon for the bottom housing as well, echoing the deep and full sound profile created by its top housing. This uniform use of nylon means that the Perky switch lacks the high-pitched tonal variation that the Oil King (V2) provides, creating a more consistent auditory experience throughout the keystroke.
In essence, while users of both switches will enjoy the deeper, fuller sounds from their nylon top housings, the distinct configurations of the bottom housings lead to different acoustic results. The Gateron Oil King (V2) offers a unique sound profile due to its INK blend bottom housing, enhancing the overall typing experience with a higher-pitched tone. Meanwhile, the HMX Perky maintains a cohesive sound, relying solely on nylon for both top and bottom, which offers a pleasing consistency but without the added dynamism found in the Gateron model. Thus, those looking for subtle auditory differences might favor the Oil King (V2), while others may prefer the uniformity of the HMX Perky.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch with the HMX Perky linear switch, significant differences emerge in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Oil King (V2) features a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Perky switch is considerably lighter, with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, putting it in the light range. This distinction means that the Oil King (V2) requires a stronger push to trigger a keystroke, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Conversely, the lighter Perky switch is ideal for users seeking prolonged typing comfort during work or long gaming sessions due to its lower actuation force, facilitating faster typing with less finger fatigue. Ultimately, those who favor a heavier switch should choose the Oil King (V2), while those who prefer a softer touch should opt for the HMX Perky switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Oil King (V2) linear switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, there is a clear distinction. The Oil King (V2) features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Perky has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Oil King (V2) offers a more traditional and deeper press, which can provide a more satisfying tactile experience for those who prefer a substantial keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Perky's 3.4 mm travel distance caters to gamers and users looking for quicker response times, as shorter travel distances typically allow for faster actuation. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on your preference for either a more pronounced depth with the Oil King (V2) or a more responsive feel with the HMX Perky.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron Oil King (V2) comes in at $6.50 per 10 switches.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the HMX Perky linear switches, the Oil King stands out with its low-pitched and bassy qualities. This switch produces a rich, mellow tone that can be likened to the comforting sound of a dark chocolate bar snapping, offering a satisfying auditory feedback. In contrast, while specifics for the sound profile of the Perky are not provided, it’s important to note that the overall sound experience can also be significantly influenced by the types of keycaps and the keyboard itself. Therefore, while the Oil King guarantees a distinct sound experience, the Perky's acoustics remain a bit of a mystery.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Oil King (V2) excels with its creamy, silky, buttery, and polished characteristics. This creates a remarkably smooth and refined typing experience, giving the sensation of gliding fingers effortlessly over the keys. Such a tactile experience is often enhanced by factory lubrication, contributing to reduced friction and allowing for seamless key presses. Meanwhile, the HMX Perky switches don't provide specifics about their feel, making it unclear how they physically compare to the Oil King. This lack of information leaves the typing experience of the Perky open to interpretation.
In summary, the Gateron Oil King (V2) is revered for its rich sound and buttery smooth feel, making it a top choice for those seeking an engaging and satisfying typing experience. While the Perky linear switch promises a neutral and deeply satisfying experience, the specifics of its acoustic and tactile qualities are unknown, creating a sense of curiosity around its performance. If you value sound and feel, the Oil King presents a clear advantage, while the Perky may attract those seeking a unique alternative yet remains an enigma in these critical areas.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Oil King (V2) and the HMX Perky linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences in typing feel and sound profile. If you enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a bottom-out force of 65 grams, then the Oil King (V2) is an excellent choice. Its creamy, silky, and buttery feel will provide a smooth and refined experience, ideal for those who appreciate a richly bassy sound and a certain tactile weight while typing. This switch is particularly suited for long typing sessions or gaming, where a deliberate keystroke can enhance your control and accuracy. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of just 50 grams, the Perky switch is designed for you. Its softer nylon housings deliver a neutral typing experience that’s deeply satisfying and characterized by shorter travel distances, making it a fantastic option for fast-paced typing or gaming where rapid key presses are essential. Ultimately, both switches have unique attributes that cater to different styles; thus, selecting between them will depend on whether you favor a heavier, smooth input experience or a lighter, snappier one.
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