HMX Perky vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the HMX Perky and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Perky and the KTT Phalaenopsis present distinct options tailored to different typing experiences. The HMX Perky, a linear switch, is celebrated for its softer, glittery nylon housings, delivering a neutral and satisfying typing experience. With a shorter travel distance, it allows for a more condensed typing feel, making it an excellent choice for those who value speed and smoothness in their keystrokes. In contrast, the KTT Phalaenopsis switches offer a tactile feedback that many typists find engaging. Featuring a light actuation force of just 37g and a 50g tactile force, the Phalaenopsis provides a discernible bump with every keystroke, making it particularly appealing for users who appreciate the tactile satisfaction of a traditional mechanical switch. Both switches cater to different preferences: the Perky is ideal for speed and ease, while the Phalaenopsis emphasizes tactile engagement and comfort during long typing sessions. 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
43g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
T2
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The HMX Perky and KTT Phalaenopsis housing materials present a fascinating juxtaposition in terms of their acoustic properties and aesthetic qualities. The Perky employs nylon for both its top and bottom housings, a classic material known for its softer and more absorbent nature. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as the nylon effectively dampens vibrations and offers a rounded auditory experience. In contrast, the Phalaenopsis utilizes polycarbonate, a stiffer and clearer material for both the top and bottom housings. This shift means that the Phalaenopsis produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile marked by clarity and resonance, making it well-suited for applications involving RGB lighting due to its translucency.
A significant aspect of this comparison lies in how these materials influence the overall sound output of each switch when pressed. The softer nylon of the Perky creates a dulled bottom-out sound that is more subdued compared to the crisp response from the polycarbonate of the Phalaenopsis. As such, typing on the Perky results in a rounder sound characteristic, while the Phalaenopsis provides a more pronounced and resonant auditory feedback. Notably, if either housing type—nylon or polycarbonate—is employed for both top and bottom, the inherent characteristics of each material will be emphasized consistently throughout the typing experience.
Despite their differences, both the HMX Perky and KTT Phalaenopsis can offer a unique typing experience tailored to user preferences. The amalgamation of nylon in the Perky provides an aesthetically soft and subdued response, whereas the Phalaenopsis’s use of polycarbonate generates a bright and lively interaction. If they were to utilize similar materials in both housings, the resulting typing experience would share characteristics specific to those materials—namely, a unified acoustic profile that combines the beneficial traits of each. Ultimately, the choice between the two may come down to personal preference regarding sound profile and visual aesthetics, where users can choose between the deep, warm tones of nylon or the high, crisp sounds of polycarbonate.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Perky linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, both demonstrate light characteristics in terms of their actuation and bottom out forces. The Perky features an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Phalaenopsis has a slightly lighter actuation force at 37 grams, with the same bottom out force of 50 grams. This means the Phalaenopsis requires less force to trigger a keystroke, making it the lighter option overall. However, both switches share the same bottom out force, indicating that regardless of the actuation mechanism, both will have a similar tactile experience when fully pressed down. Typists looking for a switch that allows for longer sessions without fatigue may prefer either option, yet those seeking a more pronounced push feel might lean towards the Perky for its heavier actuation force.
Travel distance
The HMX Perky linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference of 0.6 mm means that the Perky switch can offer a quicker response time, making it ideal for those who prioritize rapid key presses, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switch, with its greater travel distance, may provide a more substantial and satisfying keystroke for users who enjoy a deeper feel while typing or gaming. Ultimately, those seeking a more responsive experience should lean towards the Perky, while those who appreciate tactile feedback may prefer the Phalaenopsis.
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 Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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 HMX Perky linear switch is notably quieter and more subdued, resulting in a typing experience that is smooth and uninterrupted. This characteristic allows for a more stealthy operation, making it ideal for environments where noise control is essential. In contrast, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch delivers a distinctly bassy and thocky sound profile. Each keystroke produces a rich, deep tone that reverberates as you type, transforming every press into an auditory delight. The Phalaenopsis’s pronounced sound adds an extra layer of satisfaction, drawing more attention to the act of typing than its linear counterpart.
In terms of feel, the Perky switch offers a more neutral typing experience, which many users find deeply satisfying due to its softer nylon housing and shorter travel distance. This combination results in a condensed feel that enhances typing speed while minimizing finger fatigue. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis provides a tactile sensation marked by a stepped action. This means it presents a discernible bump during actuation, offering a layered texture that allows typists to feel each keystroke distinctly. While the Perky emphasizes a smooth glide, the Phalaenopsis incorporates a tactile feedback that enhances engagement during typing.
In conclusion, while the HMX Perky linear switch focuses on a smooth and quiet typing experience, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch emphasizes auditory satisfaction and tactile feedback. If you prefer a peaceful typing environment, the Perky is an excellent choice, whereas the Phalaenopsis is perfect for those who appreciate a deep sound and tactile feel. Each switch serves different preferences well, ensuring that you can find a typing experience that is uniquely suited to your style, whether you desire simplicity or rich, textural feedback.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the HMX Perky linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, it's important to consider your typing preferences and intended usage. If you favor a typing experience that is neutral and deeply satisfying with a shorter travel distance, the Perky switch is your best bet. With a lighter actuation force and a smooth, linear feel, it is particularly well-suited for fast-paced typing or gaming where quick key presses are essential without any feedback interruption. On the other hand, if you enjoy a tactile feedback experience that provides a distinct and satisfying bump, the Phalaenopsis switch would be ideal for you. Its lighter actuation force minimizes finger fatigue, making it great for extended typing sessions while still giving you the feedback needed for precision. The rich, bassy "thock" sound profile of the Phalaenopsis enhances the overall typing experience, making each keystroke delightful. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a fast, smooth typing experience or a more tactile and audible feedback with deeper sound characteristics.
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