Outemu Dustproof Blue vs. HMX Perky
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the HMX Perky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, choosing the right switch can greatly influence your typing experience, and two popular options are the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the HMX Perky. The Outemu Dustproof Blue, known for its clicky feedback, delivers a tactile and audible response that many typists love, making it ideal for those who appreciate a more interactive typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Perky switch features a linear design, which provides smooth keystrokes without any tactile bump or click, making it a great choice for gamers and those who prefer a quieter workspace. While the Dustproof Blue offers a nostalgic feel reminiscent of traditional typewriters, the Perky's shorter travel distance allows for quicker key presses, catering to fast-paced typing needs. Both switches have distinctively different characteristics designed to suit varying preferences—whether you favor the pronounced sound of the Blue or the subtlety of the Perky, the right choice can enhance your productivity and enjoyment. 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
50g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.20 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 examining the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the HMX Perky, we find a notable distinction between the two switches. The Dustproof Blue features a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile thanks to the material’s inherent stiffness. This allows for a more resonant quality, particularly beneficial when RGB lighting is incorporated, as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual effects of the lights. On the other hand, the HMX Perky utilizes a nylon top housing, known for its softer characteristics. This results in a deeper, fuller sound due to nylon's ability to absorb sound waves more effectively than harder plastics, leading to an overall rounder auditory experience.
Despite the differences in their top housing materials, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing, which is also made of nylon in the Dustproof Blue. This shared use of nylon means that both switches will generate a similar bottom-out sound profile. The nylon bottom housing in both cases facilitates a sound that is rich and deep, contributing to a more subdued and comfortable typing experience. In this respect, while the upper housing determines the sound characteristics during key release, the nylon bottom housing promotes a more consistent and robust sound signature when keys are pressed down, ensuring that users of both switches will enjoy a satisfying typing feel.
Ultimately, the contrasting top housing materials of the Dustproof Blue and HMX Perky lead to different auditory experiences during typing. The Dustproof Blue, with its polycarbonate top, produces a crisp sound that is amplified when paired with RGB lighting, while the HMX Perky’s nylon top yields a warmer and fuller timbre. However, the shared nylon bottom housing for both switches means that the inherent softness and sound-absorbing qualities will yield a similar sound profile when the keys are bottomed out, providing a level of consistency in the tactile and auditory feedback across both switches, irrespective of their top housing differences.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch with the HMX Perky linear switch, significant differences emerge in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Dustproof Blue requires a heavier actuation force of 50 grams, compared to the lighter 43 grams of the Perky switch. This makes the Perky more suitable for prolonged typing sessions, as it demands less effort to actuate, providing a more comfortable experience for users who prefer lighter switches. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Dustproof Blue is 65 grams, significantly heavier than the Perky's 50 grams. Thus, while the heavier resistance of the Dustproof Blue may appeal to those seeking a more deliberate typing experience, the HMX Perky's lighter forces cater to users looking for ease and comfort, especially during extended use. As a result, users will find that they can type longer with less strain using the Perky, whereas the Dustproof Blue offers a more substantial feel, albeit at the cost of additional effort.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, it is clear that they differ significantly. The Outemu Dustproof Blue has a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the most traditional travel distance and offers a deeper feel when typing. In contrast, the HMX Perky boasts a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, catering to users who prefer quicker response times, especially in fast-paced gaming scenarios. While the Perky's shorter distance may appeal to those seeking a more responsive experience, it can feel abrupt to others. Therefore, if you favor a more engaging typing experience with substantial depth, the Dustproof Blue would be the preferable choice, whereas the Perky is better suited for users who prioritize speed and efficiency.
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 Dustproof Blue 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch is generally characterized by a pronounced, sharp click that provides audible feedback with each keystroke, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a more traditional typing experience reminiscent of vintage typewriters. This distinct click sound is satisfying for many typists, especially in an office or home setting where they want to showcase their typing prowess. In contrast, the HMX Perky linear switch produces a much quieter operation, devoid of the tactile bump and click that typists might expect. Instead, it offers a smooth and subdued sound profile, making it ideal for environments where noise reduction is preferred, or for those who simply enjoy a less intrusive typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Dustproof Blue switch provides a tactile feedback that is not just audible but also perceptible to the fingers. This switch allows typists to feel a distinct click at the actuation point, creating a sense of connection between the user and the keyboard that enhances typing accuracy. This can be especially appealing for those who benefit from the physical sensation of feedback during long typing sessions. On the other hand, the HMX Perky switch offers a more neutral feel, characterized by its smooth and linear action with no tactile bumps or clicks. The transition between keystrokes is seamless, which can aid in reducing finger fatigue, particularly during rapid key presses or gaming sessions. The shorter travel distance of the Perky switch further contributes to this efficiency, making it an excellent choice for users who favor speed and responsiveness.
In summary, both the Outemu Dustproof Blue and HMX Perky switches cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. The Dustproof Blue excels in delivering a classic, audible typing experience with its clicky feedback, while the Perky linear switch focuses on a quieter, smoother, and more condensed typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize sound feedback and traditional feel or a serene typing environment with effortless keystrokes.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the HMX Perky linear switch will largely depend on your preferences for typing experience and the environment in which you work. If you enjoy a tactile and audible feedback while typing, and you do not mind the heavier actuation, the Dustproof Blue could be an ideal match for you, especially if you appreciate a satisfying click that can help improve typing accuracy for those who thrive on sensory feedback. However, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience with a lighter touch, then the HMX Perky linear switch is the way to go. This switch's softer feel and shorter travel distance make it particularly appealing for those who favor speed and comfort, allowing for quicker typing with less finger fatigue. In essence, opt for the Dustproof Blue when you want a more traditional, tactile experience, and choose the HMX Perky when you're looking for a seamless and enjoyable typing motion. Both switches offer unique advantages, so consider how each aligns with your typing style and environment to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard.
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