Outemu Peach (V3) vs. HMX Perky
An in-depth look at the Outemu Peach (V3) and the HMX Perky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal linear switch for your mechanical keyboard, the Outemu Peach and the HMX Perky present two compelling yet distinct options, each catering to different typing preferences. The Outemu Peach switches are recognized for their lightweight and silenced characteristics, making them an excellent choice for those who crave a feather-light typing sensation without the accompanying noise—this makes them particularly suitable for office environments or late-night typing sessions. Their categorization as ‘Mild’, ‘Muted’, ‘Subtle’, and ‘Polished’ reflects their smooth and unobtrusive feel. In contrast, the HMX Perky switches feature a softer, glittery nylon housing that delivers a neutral yet satisfying typing experience, enhanced by a shorter travel distance that promotes a more condensed and dynamic keystroke. Designated as ‘Clacky’, ‘Polished’, and ‘Silky’, the Perky switch appeals to those who appreciate a bit more auditory feedback while still enjoying the benefits of linear responsiveness. 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
40g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-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 Peach and the HMX Perky, both switches share a common characteristic of utilizing nylon for their top and bottom housings. This shared material brings about a similar auditory experience when typing, given that nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound better than harder plastics. Both the Peach and the Perky switches produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, due to nylon's relatively softer properties which enable it to create a more rounded and dull sound. This results in a more muted auditory feedback when a key is pressed or released, allowing for a pleasant typing experience that minimizes harsh sounds.
Despite their similarities in housing material, the way each switch interacts with users may differ due to design characteristics that influence the tactile experience and sound between key presses. The construction and internal mechanisms of the switches, along with other factors such as spring tension, can result in variations in the feel of the actuation, even with the same nylon housings. While both switches produce a satisfying auditory experience, the user’s overall satisfaction can be influenced by these separate design aspects. The impact of the bottom housing, for instance, is more pronounced during the bottom-out phase, whereas the top housing will affect the upstroke sound, creating nuanced differences in the user experience.
In summary, while the Outemu Peach and the HMX Perky are constructed from the same nylon material for both their top and bottom housings, the overall typing experience derived from each switch can vary based on their specific internal designs and configurations. This means that, despite achieving similar acoustic results, the feel and responsiveness of typing on these switches may differ. Users seeking a deeper sound and softer touch in their switches may appreciate both options, but would benefit from testing each to discern which aligns with their personal preferences regarding tactile feedback and sound quality.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Peach linear switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, both exhibit relatively light forces that cater to different typing preferences. The Peach switch has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Perky requires slightly more effort with an actuation force of 43 grams but also shares the same bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that both switches bottom out at the same level, ensuring a similar tactile experience when fully pressed. However, the Outemu Peach is the lighter option, making it more suitable for users who prefer less resistance for longer typing sessions or extensive gaming. In contrast, the HMX Perky, with its marginally higher actuation force, offers a slightly more substantial feel, which may appeal to those who favor a firmer keypress. Overall, both switches present a light typing experience, albeit with the Peach being more accommodating for prolonged use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Peach linear switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, the Peach measures 3.3 mm, while the Perky has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that if you opt for the Peach switch, you'll experience a shorter actuation distance, which can lead to faster response times that are often favored by gamers. Conversely, the HMX Perky, with its 3.4 mm travel distance, may provide a more substantial keypress feel that some users prefer for typing or gaming scenarios where feedback and depth are important. Thus, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Outemu Peach would be the better choice, while the HMX Perky offers a more traditional depth with its longer travel distance.
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 Peach (V3) comes in at $3.40 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 Peach switch is notably muted, providing a softer and quieter auditory experience compared to more traditional mechanical keyboard switches. Its design minimizes the characteristic noise often associated with mechanical keyboards, making it an excellent choice for those who value a stealthy typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Perky switch delivers a much more pronounced clacky sound, characterized by sharp and crisp auditory feedback upon activation. This bright, percussive sound can create a more engaging and lively atmosphere while typing, appealing to users who enjoy a significant auditory response with each keystroke.
In terms of feel, the Peach switch offers a mild and subtle typing experience that is approachable for various users. Its gentle resistance ensures a light touch while typing, allowing for long periods of use without strain. The polished finish contributes to a smooth key travel, making each keystroke feel refined and satisfying. On the other hand, the Perky switch is equally polished but introduces a unique silky sensation, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience that reduces resistance during key press and release. This combination of polished and silky features makes the Perky ideal for users who prefer a luxurious touch while typing.
Overall, the Outemu Peach and HMX Perky switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the Peach excels in providing a muted and gentle typing experience, perfect for shared environments, the Perky captures the essence of a vibrant, clacking feedback with its lively sound and silky smoothness. Both switches are polished, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable typing journey. Choosing between them ultimately depends on whether you prefer a quieter, lighter experience or a more dynamic, audible one.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Outemu Peach linear switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile. If you prefer a light and muted experience, the Outemu Peach is a fantastic choice, particularly if you are in a shared environment where minimizing noise is essential. Its polished and mild characteristics make it approachable for those new to mechanical keyboards, offering a gentle yet smooth touch that is suited for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback along with a polished and silky feel, the HMX Perky switch will likely satisfy your typing needs. Its clacky sound adds a snappy sensation to each keystroke, making it a gratifying pick for those who appreciate a more dynamic typing experience. Therefore, assess whether you value a quieter, smoother feel or a more engaging sound and touch to guide your switch selection.
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