KTT Peach vs. HMX Perky
An in-depth look at the KTT Peach and the HMX Perky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come to mind are the KTT Peach and the HMX Perky, both of which fall under the linear category but offer distinct experiences. The KTT Peach is celebrated for its syrupy smooth feel and deep, thocky sound profile, providing a typing experience that is not only satisfying but also exudes a level of muted elegance thanks to its low-pitched characteristics. In contrast, the HMX Perky, with its softer and glittery nylon housings, presents a more condensed typing experience due to a shorter travel distance, making it an appealing choice for those who enjoy a quicker and perhaps more tactile feedback without the added noise. While both switches encapsulate the essence of linear designs, your decision may hinge on whether you prefer the soothing depth of the Peach or the swift precision of the Perky. 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
53g
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
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
13mm progressive spring
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Peach and HMX Perky switches incorporate contrasting materials in their top housing, leading to differing auditory experiences. The KTT Peach employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its rigidity and translucency, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile. This quality not only enhances the acoustics, making the sound more resonant, but also allows for the effective diffusion of RGB lighting, making it visually appealing in setups that utilize such features. In contrast, the HMX Perky utilizes a nylon top housing, which is a staple material in mechanical switches. The nylon’s softer nature absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. Thus, while the Peach is designed for clarity and brightness in its sound production, the Perky leans toward a muted and rounded sound profile.
However, when examining the bottom housings of both switches, similarities abound. Both the KTT Peach and the HMX Perky feature nylon bottom housings, reinforcing the fuller and deeper sound associated with this material. The nylon's soft plastic composition in both switches absorbs sound rather than amplifying it, producing a more muted auditory experience during typing. This uniformity at the bottom level ensures that the switches share a common characteristic in how they respond when fully depressed, contributing to a pleasing and consistent bottom-out sound. Thus, even with the differences in top housings, both switches exhibit comparable base acoustics due to this shared material.
In summary, the distinct materials in the top housings of the KTT Peach and HMX Perky result in differentiated auditory outcomes; the former emphasizes clarity and brightness while the latter champions a deeper resonance. Nonetheless, the shared nylon bottom housing promotes a cohesive sound experience overall. This combination indicates that even though they manifest unique characteristics when pressed down, both switches maintain a certain level of consistency in their acoustic profiles due to their commonality in bottom housing material. Ultimately, the impact of the housing materials illustrates how a switch's sound experience can be a blend of both individual and shared qualities, leading to a variety of tactile and aural experiences for the user.
Weight
The KTT Peach linear switch and the HMX Perky linear switch present an interesting comparison in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Peach switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Perky switch features a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, placing it firmly in the light category. This difference means that while both switches require relatively low force to actuate, the Perky is the lighter option overall. The Peach's higher bottom out force may appeal to users looking for a more substantial feel when keys are fully pressed, whereas the Perky’s lighter force could be more suitable for extended typing sessions or casual gaming. Both switches, however, provide a satisfying typing experience, with the Peach offering a bit more resistance for those who prefer a heavier feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Peach linear switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, there is a clear difference in their specifications. The KTT Peach has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the HMX Perky measures a shorter 3.4 mm. This places the Peach in the realm of traditional switch distances, often favored by users who appreciate the tactile feedback of deeper presses. On the other hand, the Perky's shorter travel distance caters to gamers seeking faster response times and a more immediate actuation. For those who prefer a more responsive feel when typing or gaming, the Perky is the better option due to its reduced travel, while the Peach is better suited for users who enjoy a more pronounced key press. Thus, individuals must consider their preferences for depth versus response time when choosing between these two switches.
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 KTT Peach comes in at $2.91 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 KTT Peach linear switch is characterized by a rich, low-pitched thocky sound profile that contributes to a satisfying auditory experience. This low-pitched sound is more bass-heavy and mellow, making it a great choice for users who prefer a deeper auditory feedback as they type. Moreover, its neutral sound quality ensures that it remains versatile enough for various environments, accommodating both beginners and seasoned typists regardless of whether they are at home or in a workplace setting. On the other hand, specific sound characteristics of the HMX Perky linear switch are unknown, which leaves some uncertainty regarding how it might compare in auditory feedback. However, it's worth noting that switches can sound different based on the keycaps and keyboard they are paired with.
In terms of feel, the KTT Peach switch offers a mild typing experience, making it approachable and easy to use for nearly anyone. This milder feel provides a gentle, smooth typing action that is conducive to longer typing sessions without overwhelming the user with excess tactile feedback or resistance. The Perky switch's specific feel is not detailed, leaving its tactile qualities up for interpretation, but the presence of softer nylon housings suggests a potentially smooth experience as well. Without definitive information on the Perky’s feel, we can assume that it might also provide a pleasant typing experience, albeit in a more compact package due to its shorter travel distance.
In conclusion, while the KTT Peach linear switch is well-regarded for its low-pitched sound and mild feel, the HMX Perky linear switch presents an unknown quality that may distinguish it from the Peach. If you opt for the Peach, you can expect a more thocky auditory feedback and a gentle typing experience that suits a variety of users. Meanwhile, the Perky's glittery nylon housing may contribute to a unique typing experience, but without more details, it’s hard to make a direct comparison. Ultimately, both switches may cater to similar user preferences, but those seeking very specific qualities may need to experiment to find their personal favorite.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the KTT Peach and HMX Perky linear switches, consider your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a medium-light actuation force and desire a smooth, syrupy typing experience coupled with a thocky sound profile, the KTT Peach will likely suit you well. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy the depth of a low-pitched sound while also seeking a mild feel that makes for an approachable typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a more concise typing experience, the HMX Perky switch may be your best option. With its softer nylon housings and shorter travel distance, the Perky promotes a deeply satisfying yet neutral typing experience that many typists find enjoyable. Ultimately, your choice should align with what you prioritize in sound, feel, and the overall typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
