HMX Perky vs. Durock Piano
An in-depth look at the HMX Perky and the Durock Piano switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Perky and Durock Piano both offer unique attributes that cater to different typing preferences, despite both being linear switches. The HMX Perky switches are celebrated for their softer, glittery nylon housings, providing a neutral and deeply satisfying typing experience that many users appreciate. With a shorter travel distance, the Perky can contribute to a more condensed and efficient typing experience, making it an appealing choice for those who type intensely and prioritize speed. On the contrary, the Durock Piano switches distinguish themselves with a proprietary material blend that offers a gliding push feel and a notably deep, creamy sound signature that many find utterly pleasurable. Classified as ‘Bassy’, ‘Frictionless’, and ‘Silky’, these switches are perfect for those who enjoy a more tactile and audio-rich typing experience. While both switches offer their own merits for a satisfying keystroke, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T2
Stem material
Mystery material
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The HMX Perky and the Durock Piano showcase distinct housing materials that offer polarizing sound profiles, yet both are designed to generate a satisfying typing experience. The Perky features a nylon top and bottom housing, which is a classic switch material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The soft characteristics of nylon absorb sound waves more effectively, leading to a duller tone when the keys are released, which creates a rounded auditory experience. This soft absorption helps reduce any harsh overtones that could detract from the typing experience. In contrast, the Piano utilizes a proprietary POM blend for both its top and bottom housings. While details of this blend remain undisclosed, it is noted that the POM housing produces a uniquely satisfying yet deep sound profile, differentiating it from the softer yet more muted tonal qualities of nylon.
When considering the effect of these materials on the overall typing experience, it's essential to understand how each housing contributes sound and feel to the keypress. The nylon composition of the HMX Perky, with its inherent softness, contributes to a more cushioned bottom-out sound and feel. This is particularly noticeable during rapid typing, where the softer nylon dampens impacts effectively. On the other hand, the POM blend utilized in the Durock Piano, being a harder yet still satisfying material, allows for a different resonant quality during both the pressing and releasing phases of the keystroke. The differentiation in the material hardness plays a potentially significant role in the tactile feedback, with POM likely yielding a snappier response compared to the plush feel of nylon.
Ultimately, users can expect an engaging typing experience from both switches, albeit through differing auditory and tactile presentations. The HMX Perky users will likely enjoy the calmed resonance and subdued auditory profile that nylon excels at, while Durock Piano users may revel in the crispness and unique satisfaction that the POM blend brings. For those seeking to achieve a similar rounded sound yet prefer the Piano's characteristics, they might consider pairing their typing style with specific keycap materials or modifications that further dampen sound, allowing for that deeper auditory impact reminiscent of nylon switches. However, the inherent differences in material composition will mean that each switch retains a unique personality, even if some similarities in sound profile may be cultivated through careful consideration of complementary components.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Perky linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, significant differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge, highlighting their distinct user experiences. The HMX Perky switch features a light actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a good choice for those who prefer a more manageable typing experience over long periods, such as at work or during extended gaming sessions. In contrast, the Durock Piano switch has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, though its actuation force is not specified. The absence of a direct value for the actuation force makes it difficult to fully compare, but given the heavier bottom out, it can be inferred that the actuation force is likely medium-heavy as well. Consequently, for users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the Durock Piano switch may be the better option, while the HMX Perky caters to those who favor a lighter touch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Perky linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Perky switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Piano switch measures 4 mm. This makes the Perky the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times due to its reduced travel distance. On the other hand, the Piano's longer 4 mm travel distance offers a more pronounced feel, catering to users who prefer a deeper keystroke experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference, with the Perky providing a snappier response and the Piano delivering a more traditional, robust sensation.
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 Durock Piano has an MSRP of $6.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Piano for $5.57.
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
The sound profile of the HMX Perky linear switch is not clearly established in the provided description, while the Durock Piano linear switch is characterized by its deep and rich bassy sound. This lower frequency range contributes to a more immersive auditory experience when typing. The sound produced by any mechanical switch can also be affected by various factors such as the choice of keyboard case and keycap materials, which means that while the Piano has a defined sound signature, achieving similar results with the Perky could be more dependent on the overall setup.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Perky switch is known for providing a neutral and deeply satisfying typing experience with a more condensed travel distance, allowing for faster key engagements. In contrast, the Durock Piano switches offer a remarkable gliding push feel paired with a frictionless and silky typing experience, minimizing resistance for an extraordinarily smooth action. The difference in travel distance and overall resistance hints that the typing experience between these two switches may appeal to different types of users, with the Perky being potentially advantageous for those who prefer quick and responsive key movements.
In conclusion, while both the HMX Perky and Durock Piano linear switches promise enjoyable typing experiences, they excel in different aspects. The Perky's softer housing and shorter travel distance cater to a compact typing style, while the Piano's deep, creamy sound and smooth feel enhance the sensory experience. Ultimately, users seeking a versatile and satisfying typing experience may find solace in either switch, albeit for differing reasons. The choice between them will likely come down to personal preference regarding sound and tactile feedback, alongside the overall keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, both the HMX Perky linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch cater to distinct preferences that can greatly enhance your typing experience. If you lean towards a lighter feel with a condensed typing experience, the Perky would likely be your go-to option. Its lower actuation force and shorter travel distance make it ideal for prolonged typing sessions or for fast-paced gaming, providing you with a satisfying and neutral response that can easily accommodate hours of use without fatigue. Conversely, if you prefer a more substantial feel with a richer sound profile, the Durock Piano is the better choice. Its medium-heavy actuation force, combined with a deep, creamy sound and a frictionless, silky feel, offers a more deliberate typing experience that can enhance your tactile engagement with the keyboard. Ultimately, your decision should align with your specific needs—whether you prioritize lightness and speed with the Perky or the robust sound and smoothness of the Piano.
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