Bsun Olive vs. HMX Perky
An in-depth look at the Bsun Olive 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 and typing style, and two interesting options are the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the HMX Perky linear switch. The Bsun Olive switches are renowned for their all-POM housings that emit a resonant, deep sound, offering medium-weight tactile feedback. Their distinct design, highlighted by a long pole stem, results in a pronounced tactile bump and a sharp bottom-out, which creates an invigorating auditory experience that many typists find rewarding. In contrast, the HMX Perky switches feature a softer, glittery nylon housing that provides a smooth, linear typing experience characterized by a more condensed travel distance. This means less resistance at the actuation point and a more seamless keystroke that many gamers and fast typists may prefer for rapid inputs. While Olives may appeal to those who enjoy tactile feedback and a pronounced sound, Perkys cater to users seeking a fluid and noise-free 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
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Olive and HMX Perky exhibit distinct differences in their housing materials, each contributing unique sonic characteristics to the switches. The Olive features a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top and bottom housing, known for producing a rich and unique sound profile that leans towards a deeper and more muted acoustic. This characteristic is attributed to POM’s structural properties, which create a pleasing auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the Perky's housing is composed of nylon, a classic material recognized for its ability to deliver a similar deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound than harder materials, resulting in a rounder auditory experience. While both switches aspire to create a satisfying sound, the way they achieve this differs significantly, with the Olive focusing on muted refinement and the Perky leveraging the inherent acoustics of nylon.
In examining the bottom housing, the same contrasting materials come into play. The Bsun Olive again features POM, which parallels the auditory characteristics of its top housing to produce a cohesive sound experience. Meanwhile, the HMX Perky opts for nylon as well, which, similar to its top housing, contributes to a fuller and deeper sound profile due to its density and heat resistance. This layering of materials means that the tactile and acoustic sensations will feel distinctive depending on the switch; however, both would evoke similarly satisfying auditory results. When a user presses a key, the unique properties of the bottom housing are accentuated, meaning the POM in the Olive produces a smooth transition while the nylon in the Perky lends itself more towards sound dampening.
Ultimately, the differences between the two switches lie not only in the choice of materials but also in how those materials impact the overall sonic experience. The Bsun Olive, with its uniform use of POM, offers a consistent sound profile that is well-rounded yet muted at both the top and bottom. In contrast, the HMX Perky, utilizing nylon for both its top and bottom housings, maintains a deeper resonance that may appeal to users seeking a fuller typing experience. While both switches can satisfy the desire for sound quality, the manner in which they reach that satisfaction is intricate. The split between the various housing materials allows users to truly embrace and appreciate the individual characteristics of each switch while still achieving commendable sound performance across the board.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, there are noticeable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Olive has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, classifying it as a medium-heavy option. In contrast, the Perky offers a lighter experience with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the Olive switch heavier overall, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial push feel while typing. On the other hand, the Perky's lighter forces cater to users looking for a more effortless typing experience, making it ideal for extended sessions at work or during gaming. Thus, if users favor lighter switches for comfort and endurance, the HMX Perky would be the better choice, whereas those who appreciate a stronger feedback and push would likely prefer the Bsun Olive.
Travel distance
The Bsun Olive tactile switch and the HMX Perky linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which means that when pressed, users will experience the same depth of key travel. This identical measurement suggests that both switches can provide comparable tactile feedback and responsiveness, resulting in similar typing experiences. As such, if you prefer the feel of one switch over the other, you can expect similar travel dynamics regardless of your choice. Therefore, neither switch is shorter or longer in terms of travel distance, as they both share the same specification.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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 BSUN Olive switches deliver a resonant and deep auditory experience that differentiates them from many other options on the market. Their all-POM housings contribute to a rich timbre, creating a satisfying sound upon keypress. The auditory response complements the switch's tactile characteristics, making it distinctly engaging. In contrast, the HMX Perky switches, with their softer and glittery nylon housings, produce a less pronounced sound, leading to a more muted typing experience. The auditory quality of the Perky switches aims for subtlety, favoring a smoother operation over the more pronounced acoustics of the Olive. However, it's important to note that sound characteristics can also vary depending on your keyboard's design and materials used, which means both switches can yield different auditory experiences based on their setup.
In terms of feel, the Olive switch stands out with its medium tactile feedback. It is often described as accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy. This combination results in a pronounced tactile bump that is neither overwhelming nor overly subtle, providing a vibrant and immersive typing sensation. The longer pole stem enhances the tactile response, ensuring each keypress has a crisp bottom-out. On the other hand, while the specific feel characteristics of the Perky switches are not outlined, their construction suggests they offer a smoother and perhaps more neutral experience. This difference in feel can cater to various preferences; the Olive’s more tactile nature might appeal to users who enjoy noticeable feedback, while the Perky may suit those looking for a less pronounced response.
In conclusion, both the BSUN Olive and HMX Perky switches offer unique experiences defined by their sound and feel. The Olive's distinctively deep sound and pronounced tactile feedback create a satisfying and engaging typing experience, while the Perky offers a smoother, more subdued auditory presence and a possibly softer touch. These variations provide keyboard enthusiasts with options that can cater to different preferences for sound and tactile feedback. Choosing between the two will ultimately come down to personal preference, but both switches are designed to deliver quality experiences in their own right.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the HMX Perky linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a medium-heavy switch that offers substantial tactile feedback and a satisfying auditory experience, the Olive is an excellent choice. Its pronounced tactile bump and resonant sound make it ideal for typists who appreciate a more invigorating and interactive feel while typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch that provides a smooth and neutral typing experience, the Perky is likely the better fit for you. Its shorter travel distance and softer actuation force make it perfect for fast typing with minimal resistance, catering well to those who type for extended periods or prefer a quieter environment. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize tactile feedback and sound or a seamless, lighter touch while typing.
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