Outemu Milk Peach vs. HMX Perky

Overview

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Milk Peach and HMX Perky are two excellent linear options that can cater to diverse typing preferences. The Milk Peach switch is known for providing a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke, ideal for gamers and typists who prioritize a seamless experience without tactile feedback. On the other hand, the HMX Perky stands out with its softer, glittery nylon housings that create a neutral yet deeply satisfying typing feel, coupled with a shorter travel distance for a more condensed typing experience. This can be appealing for those who enjoy rapid key presses and a snappier response. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that can enhance your keyboard use, whether you seek speed, comfort, or aesthetics. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for your typing style and preferences.

By the numbers

Outemu Milk Peach Linear

HMX Perky Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Milk Peach and the HMX Perky, distinct differences emerge in their top housings. The Milk Peach utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which contributes to a sharper, more resonant sound profile. This material's relative stiffness allows it to produce crisper auditory feedback when typing, enhancing the clarity of each keystroke. In contrast, the HMX Perky opts for a nylon top housing, a classic choice known for its ability to absorb sound and create a fuller, rounder sound profile. The softer characteristics of nylon yield a warmer auditory experience, ideal for users who prefer a muted sound over the crisper notes produced by polycarbonate. Thus, while both switches excel in their respective sound qualities, the Milk Peach's polycarbonate top clearly stands out for those seeking brightness in their typing acoustics.

However, when we examine the bottom housings of both switches, similarities arise as both utilize nylon. This shared material choice means that the deeper and rounder sound profile, characteristic of nylon, remains consistent in terms of auditory feedback when pressing down on the keys. Both the Milk Peach and Perky switches will create a similar sound experience upon bottoming out due to the absorption qualities of nylon, ensuring a comfortable and cohesive typing experience across both models. As a result, the effect of the bottom housing’s softer material will likely overshadow the top housing differences when users press down, making both switches share common ground in terms of bottom-out sound.

In summary, while the Outemu Milk Peach and HMX Perky switches exhibit contrasting materials in their top housings—leading to differing sound profiles when key presses are released—they converge on the use of nylon in their bottom housings, delivering a unified bottoming out sound experience. The Milk Peach’s polycarbonate top provides a sharper and clearer sound during release, ideal for those who appreciate a brighter feedback, whereas the Perky’s nylon top generates a warmer tone, catering to users who favor a deeper auditory character. Ultimately, the combination of these materials in each switch results in a unique, yet somewhat complementary typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch to the HMX Perky linear switch, there are some notable differences in their actuation forces. The Milk Peach switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Perky switch requires a slightly lighter 43 grams to actuate. This means that for users seeking a lighter touch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, the Perky switch may be the better option. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Perky switch has a measurable bottom out force of 50 grams, whereas the Milk Peach switch does not have this information available. As such, we cannot directly compare their bottom out experiences. With the lighter actuation force, the Perky switch offers a more delicate keystroke, making it suitable for those who prefer less resistance. Conversely, the Milk Peach, with its higher actuation force makes it slightly more robust, potentially providing a more substantial typing experience for users who enjoy a stronger push feel.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, the Milk Peach has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Perky offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Milk Peach the shorter option, providing a quick response that could be favored by gamers seeking rapid key feedback. In contrast, the HMX Perky's 3.4 mm travel distance, while still on the shorter side compared to traditional switches, offers a bit more depth, which could be appreciated by users who prefer a more pronounced tactile experience with their typing. As both switches are relatively close in distance, users can achieve similar responsiveness, though those who prioritize immediacy may lean towards the Milk Peach, while those who enjoy a little more depth may find the Perky more satisfying.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch does not have a widely recognized sound profile, which may result in a relatively muted experience unless enhanced by specific board and keycap choices. In contrast, the HMX Perky switch offers a more satisfying auditory experience attributed to its softer nylon housing, which tends to produce a pleasant sound with each keystroke. However, the overall sound output can still vary significantly based on the keyboard build and the type of keycaps used, making it essential to consider these elements when seeking an optimal sound.

Regarding feel, the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch lacks specific attributes that stand out in the tactile experience, leaving it somewhat ambiguous in this area. On the other hand, the HMX Perky switch provides a deeply satisfying typing experience characterized by its neutral feel and notably shorter travel distance. This design allows for a condensed, responsive sensation that many users find appealing, making the Perky a potential choice for those seeking a quick and efficient typing experience.

In summary, while the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch may not have defining qualities, the HMX Perky switch shines with its softer housing and engaging tactile feedback. Users can expect a more enjoyable auditory experience with the Perky, alongside its uniquely condensed feel. For newcomers, this means that if you desire a more defined sound and tactile pleasure, the Perky would be the preferable option, whereas the Milk Peach might not deliver the same level of engagement.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Outemu Milk Peach and the HMX Perky linear switches comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a switch that feels light and offers a unique tactile experience, the HMX Perky is your go-to option. With its softer nylon housing and shorter travel distance, it provides a satisfying and condensed typing experience, making it ideal for those who type quickly and want minimal finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you're seeking an alternative with a specific feel or sound that aligns more closely with your needs—though the Milk Peach’s particular characteristics are currently unknown—it may be worthwhile to explore that option further. The Perky's 50-gram actuation force and well-regarded feel make it suitable for a range of activities, from gaming to intensive typing. Ultimately, your choice should reflect what you value most in a switch: the distinctive features of the HMX Perky or the uncharted potential of the Outemu Milk Peach.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Milk Peach Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

HMX Perky Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more