HMX Perky vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the HMX Perky and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Perky and Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) represent two distinct yet appealing options. The Perky, a linear switch, is celebrated for its softer, glittery nylon housings that provide a neutral and deeply satisfying typing experience. With shorter travel distances, users often find typing on these switches to be more condensed and comfortable, making them ideal for those who prefer smooth and uninterrupted keystrokes. In contrast, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) is a tactile switch designed for those seeking maximum tactility. Its sharp tactile feedback and resonant clacking sound create a punchy typing experience that many users find invigorating. While the Perky offers a polished and silky feel for uninterrupted typing, the POM T1 stands out with its accented and sharp feedback for those who appreciate a more dynamic interaction with each keypress. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Proprietary
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
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 Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches both utilize unique materials in their housing that contribute to their overall sound profile, yet they embody distinct characteristics. The Perky, made from nylon, boasts a softer plastic construction that absorbs sound effectively, resulting in a deeper, fuller, and rounded auditory experience. This acoustic property is particularly notable when typing, as the nylon material produces a more subdued noise compared to harder plastics. In contrast, the POM T1's POM top housing echoes a similar auditory theme characterized by a deep and muted sound. While both switches produce rich sound profiles, the key difference lies in the material itself—nylon versus POM—affecting the nuances of how each switch feels and sounds.
Examining the bottom housings reveals a parallelism in their sound profiles, with both the Perky and POM T1 utilizing nylon and POM, respectively. Here again, the nylon bottom housing of the Perky contributes to a more rounded and fuller sound, assisting in minimizing high-frequency noise. Similarly, the POM T1’s bottom housing ensures that the sound produced is pleasingly muted while still retaining a deep signature. This similarity extends to the overall typing experience, where each switch offers a satisfying bottom-out feel, though the materials may impart subtle differences in tactile feedback.
In terms of how each switch ultimately performs, the varied materials create a division in audio characteristics depending on the actuation stage. The Perky's nylon top housing will influence the sound that emerges upon key release, amplifying the deeper tones, while the POM T1 top housing will similarly dictate the auditory experience without conflicting sounds. Despite the different materials, both switches can yield comparable results through their inherent design—proving that, even with differing plastic types, a cohesive deep and muted sound profile can be achieved. As a result, typists may appreciate the distinctive sound qualities that each switch brings while still experiencing an overall harmonious performance.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Perky linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, there is a notable difference in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Perky switch features a light actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for users who prioritize comfort during extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the POM T1 switch does not specify an actuation force, but it has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, which provides a more pronounced tactile feedback and a sturdier feel that some users prefer. As a result, the Perky is the lighter option, catering to those who favor a softer typing experience, while the POM T1 is heavier, appealing to individuals who enjoy a more substantial keypress. Overall, if you seek a balance between ease of typing and tactile feedback, these differences will guide your choice based on your personal preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the HMX Perky linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch in terms of travel distance, a clear distinction emerges. The Perky features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the POM T1 boasts a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Perky switch offers a shorter travel distance, making it potentially more suitable for those who prioritize responsiveness, such as gamers who benefit from swift actuations. On the other hand, the POM T1's 4 mm travel distance provides a deeper feel, catering to users who prefer a more pronounced tactile experience. Therefore, if you're looking for a quicker response, the HMX Perky would be the better choice, while the Durock POM T1 would appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial key press 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 POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Perky linear switch delivers a bright, clacky profile that may appeal to those who enjoy a crisp auditory feedback. Each keypress produces a sharp and snappy sound, creating an engaging and lively typing atmosphere. In contrast, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) presents a resonant tone that feels higher-pitched and gives an immersive auditory experience. While the POM T1 combines its resonant quality with a neutral profile, making it versatile for various typing environments, the sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by keycap choice and the keyboard build, which is worth considering for anyone seeking an optimal sound experience.
When evaluating the feel of these switches, the HMX Perky stands out for its polished and silky characteristics, providing a smooth and refined typing sensation. The combination of its nylon housing and reduced friction during key travel further enhances this sleek experience, ideal for those who type quickly and favor fluid motion. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) is known for its sharp and invigorating tactile feedback, characterized by a strong and distinct bump that offers a satisfying tactile experience with each keypress. The resulting feedback is pronounced but not overwhelming, creating a gratifying interaction for typists who appreciate a tactile response without being overly harsh.
In summary, while both the HMX Perky linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch provide unique qualities tailored to different typing preferences, they cater to varied auditory and tactile expectations. The Perky excels in delivering a smooth and clacky experience, making it ideal for those who appreciate a sleek typing sound and feel. Meanwhile, the POM T1 focuses on pronounced tactile feedback with a resonant sound, appealing to those who thrive on sharp, distinct keypress sensations. Ultimately, both switches offer rewarding experiences that can be tailored to individual tastes and typing styles, allowing for a suitable choice regardless of preference.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Perky linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, your specific typing preferences and intended use will guide your choice. If you prefer a lightweight switch that provides a smooth and polished typing experience, complemented by a clacky sound profile, the Perky is an excellent option. Its shorter travel distance and soft bottom out force make it ideal for fast-paced typing, making it suitable for gamers or those who engage in extensive typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, if you're after a more tactile feel and appreciate the nuanced feedback from each keystroke, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is likely your best bet. This switch's medium-heavy actuation and resonant sound offer a robust auditory and haptic experience that can enhance your typing satisfaction, particularly for writers or professionals who want that satisfying feedback in their workflow. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a light, smooth typing experience or a sharper, more tactile interaction.
Mentioned in this article
