Outemu Crystal Brown vs. HMX Perky
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal Brown and the HMX Perky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Crystal Brown and the HMX Perky each offer distinct experiences tailored to different user preferences. The Crystal Brown is a tactile switch, providing a noticeable bump during activation that can enhance typing accuracy and offer satisfying feedback for typists who appreciate a bit of resistance as they type. In contrast, the HMX Perky is a linear switch, characterized by its smooth keystroke and shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers and those who prefer a more fluid typing experience. The softer, glittery nylon housing of the Perky not only adds a touch of aesthetic appeal but also promotes a neutral and deeply satisfying feel, while the tactile feedback of the Crystal Brown is favored by users who enjoy a more dynamic relationship with their keys. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Crystal Brown and the HMX Perky, it becomes evident that the two switches utilize different materials for their top housings. The Crystal Brown's top housing is made of polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This characteristic is particularly appealing to those who value a clear auditory feedback when typing, especially in setups where RGB lighting is a primary feature, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for optimal light diffusion. On the other hand, the HMX Perky is constructed with a nylon top housing, which is generally softer and contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its ability to absorb sound. This contrast in material results in a distinct auditory experience depending on which switch is in use.
Conversely, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, creating a fascinating similarity in their overall sound profile when bottoming out. The nylon bottom housing in both the Crystal Brown and Perky switches leads to a duller, rounder sound, making the typing experience smooth and pleasant. Because nylon is softer than polycarbonate, the bottom housing's properties will significantly influence the impact felt when the switch is fully pressed down. Consequently, while the top housings deliver different sound qualities, the shared nylon bottom housing means that users will experience a consistent depth of sound that unites these two switches in terms of bottom-out noise.
Ultimately, the unique combinations of materials lead to different responses when typing but also highlight how each housing contributes to the overall experience. The polycarbonate top of the Crystal Brown provides a crispy feedback on release, while the nylon top of the Perky yields a softer auditory response. However, since both switches boast nylon bases, users can expect a similarly enjoyable tactile experience when they actuate the switches. Although the auditory profiles differ due to the distinct top housing materials, the foundational characteristics derived from the nylon bottom housings create a degree of harmony between the two models, ensuring that both options cater to diverse preferences in typing sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch to the HMX Perky linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces become apparent. The Crystal Brown features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which categorizes it as medium-light. In contrast, the HMX Perky has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, placing it firmly in the light category. This means that users who prefer a lighter typing feel may find the HMX Perky more comfortable for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who appreciate a more substantial push feel might lean towards the Crystal Brown switch, given its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Overall, the differences indicate that if you're looking for a lighter touch, the HMX Perky may be the better option, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance might prefer the Crystal Brown.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, it is clear that they differ significantly. The Crystal Brown features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the traditional travel distance for switches and provides a more pronounced feel when pressed. In contrast, the HMX Perky has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, catering to users who prefer a quicker response time, often favored by gamers. This shorter distance can lead to a more abrupt feel for some, while others might appreciate the speed it offers. Thus, if you prioritize a more robust typing experience with notable depth, the Outemu Crystal Brown would be the preferred choice. Conversely, if you seek faster actuation and responsiveness, the HMX Perky's shorter travel distance would be more suitable.
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 Outemu Crystal Brown comes in at $3.10 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
The Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch does not have a specific sound associated with it. In contrast, the HMX Perky linear switch features a softer sound profile thanks to its nylon housing, which contributes to a more muted auditory experience. The sound produced by these switches can also vary based on the keyboard board and keycap materials used, making it vital to consider them as part of the overall sound profile for both switches. However, you can generally expect the Perky to yield a quieter typing experience compared to the potentially undefined acoustic output of the Crystal Brown.
When it comes to feel, the Crystal Brown switch lacks a detailed description, making it difficult to analyze its tactile response. On the other hand, the Perky switch offers a deeply satisfying and neutral typing experience, characterized by its shorter travel distance that enhances a more condensed feel while typing. The tactile feedback from the Crystal Brown remains uncertain, but if it does align similarly to other tactile switches, you might find some connection in the overall typing sensation, albeit not as defined or rewarding as the Perky.
In summary, while the Outemu Crystal Brown lacks specific definitions regarding both sound and feel, the HMX Perky linear switch shines with its softer auditory signature and a satisfying, condensed typing experience. Those who value a quiet and pleasurable feel will likely prefer the Perky switch, whereas the appeal of the Crystal Brown remains ambiguous, possibly offering a more traditional tactile response without the defined benefits of improved auditory or tactile qualities. If you gravitate toward tactile experiences, you may find some similarities among switches in terms of performance, but the Perky stands out as a more defined and enjoyable option for newcomers.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the HMX Perky linear switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and intended use. If you prefer a balanced typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, the Crystal Brown is an excellent choice, particularly if you enjoy a tactile feedback that adds a sense of satisfaction during typing. This can be especially beneficial for those who type a lot or engage in activities that require accurate keystrokes. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter touch with a bottom out force of only 50 grams and appreciate a smoother, linear action, the HMX Perky switch may be your go-to option. The condensed travel distance and a satisfying, neutral feel make it suitable for rapid typing or gaming, where quick responses are essential. Additionally, the glittery nylon housing adds a unique aesthetic and tactile experience that may appeal to many users. In summary, assess your typing style, whether you prefer tactile feedback or smooth keystrokes, and make your decision based on what enhances your overall keyboard experience.
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