HMX Perky vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the HMX Perky and the Akko V3 Piano Pro 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 Akko V3 Piano Pro offer distinct experiences, appealing to different typing preferences. The HMX Perky, with its softer nylon housing and shorter travel distance, provides a neutral typing sensation that many users find deeply satisfying and perfect for extended typing sessions. Its compact design contributes to a more condensed typing experience, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate a silky yet polished feel. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro boasts a longer pole that enhances its snappy sound signature, delivering a lively and crisp auditory experience with each keystroke. This, combined with its smooth actuation, makes it an enticing option for users who value both auditory feedback and tactile pleasure in their typing. While both switches are categorized as clacky and silky, their unique characteristics cater to different user preferences. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
The HMX Perky and Akko V3 Piano Pro both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, a choice that emphasizes classic switch characteristics. With nylon being a softer plastic, both switches are designed to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. This outcome is largely due to nylon's ability to absorb sound, resulting in a more subdued and rounded auditory feedback compared to harder plastics. Consequently, enthusiasts of both switches can expect a similar auditory experience, as the shared material contributes to a harmonious typing atmosphere.
While both the Perky and V3 Piano Pro employ nylon in their construction, it's essential to consider how the specific configurations of the switches may influence their performance. If the top and bottom housings were different, the qualities each material brings would interact in unique ways, with the bottom housing affecting how the key feels and sounds upon bottoming out, while the top housing would shape the sound profile released during key release. However, since both models consistently use nylon across their switch housings, this interaction becomes less variable, leading to an aligned tactile and auditory experience that meets the expectations of users who appreciate the nuances of mechanical keyboards.
Ultimately, the reliance on nylon for housing in both the HMX Perky and Akko V3 Piano Pro creates a convergence in their performance characteristics, ensuring that keyboard users can achieve similar results in sound and feel. The consistent use of a proven material like nylon establishes a common ground, demonstrating how thoughtful material selection can result in a satisfying typing experience across different switch models. Therefore, whether opting for the HMX Perky or the Akko V3 Piano Pro, users can feel confident in the sound and tactile feedback, knowing they will enjoy the rich auditory profile that nylon inherently provides.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Perky linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Perky features an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option suitable for long typing sessions without much fatigue. In contrast, the V3 Piano Pro has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. This indicates that while both switches are relatively light, the V3 Piano Pro requires a marginally greater push, providing a more substantial feel for users who prefer a stronger typing experience. Ultimately, if you favor a lighter touch for extended use, the Perky would be the better choice, whereas the V3 Piano Pro might be preferable for those seeking a bit more resistance in key presses.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Perky linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, we see that the Perky measures 3.4 mm while the V3 Piano Pro has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference of just 0.1 mm may seem minimal, but it can influence the overall feel of the switches. For gamers seeking quicker response times, the shorter travel distance of the Perky might be preferable, offering a snappier and more responsive feedback during gameplay. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more tactile experience might favor the V3 Piano Pro, as the longer travel distance provides a bit more depth and may feel more satisfying when typing or gaming. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on personal preference regarding the balance between responsiveness and comfort in key travel.
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 Akko V3 Piano Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Piano Pro for $3.10.
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, both the HMX Perky and Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switches deliver a clacky auditory experience that enhances typing engagement. The Perky switch is characterized by its sharp and snappy sound, producing a crisp, bright, and percussive note with each keystroke. Similarly, the V3 Piano Pro also offers a clacky sound, but it is complemented by a resonant quality that adds depth, creating a higher-pitched, immersive auditory profile. This combination results in a lively and dynamic typing experience for users of both switches, although the V3 Piano Pro may provide an additional layer of resonance due to its design.
In terms of feel, the Perky switch stands out for its polished and silky characteristics, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience. Users can expect reduced friction and an overall sleekness in key travel. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro offers a creamy sensation alongside its polished and silky qualities, which can make the act of typing feel exceptionally effortless. Both switches are designed to minimize resistance when pressing and releasing keys, cultivating a smooth and satisfying tactile experience. While the Perky excels with its straightforward polished and silky feel, the V3 Piano Pro adds an extra element of creaminess, contributing to an even more luxurious typing sensation.
In conclusion, both the HMX Perky and Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switches provide distinct yet somewhat overlapping experiences for users. Both switches share a clacky sound profile, creating an engaging auditory feedback, while the feel is characterized by polished and silky attributes for both. The V3 Piano Pro differentiates itself with a creamy texture, adding a unique buttery smoothness to its appeal. Ultimately, whether you prefer the straightforward satisfaction of the Perky or the additional creaminess of the V3 Piano Pro, you're bound to enjoy a rewarding typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the HMX Perky linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and the typing experience you're seeking. If you prefer a lighter feel and are looking for a condensed typing experience with exceptionally smooth travel, the HMX Perky, with its 50-gram bottom-out force, is an excellent choice. The clacky sound profile and polished, silky feel elevate the overall typing satisfaction, making it ideal for those who enjoy a nuanced tactile experience with less resistance. Conversely, if you lean towards a slightly firmer touch, the Akko V3 Piano Pro, with its medium-light 55-gram bottom-out force, might be more to your liking. The Piano Pro's unique long pole design contributes to its snappy, resonant sound signature, providing an engaging auditory experience that can make each keystroke feel lively and dynamic. Furthermore, with its creamy smoothness and polished finish, the V3 Piano Pro ensures a satisfying top-tier typing experience. Ultimately, think about what aspects matter most to you—be it the force needed to actuate, the sound profile, or the feel—and choose accordingly for your ideal keyboard setup.
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