HMX Perky vs. Jerrzi Poseidon
An in-depth look at the HMX Perky and the Jerrzi Poseidon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Perky and the Jerrzi Poseidon stand out as two appealing options for enthusiasts seeking a linear experience. The Perky switch, with its softer and glittery nylon housings, delivers a neutral and deeply satisfying typing feel, complemented by a shorter travel distance that allows for a more condensed typing experience. This makes it an excellent choice for users who prioritize speed and comfort, especially during long typing sessions. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Poseidon, while lacking specific standout features, offers a dependable linear switch experience that many users appreciate for its consistency and reliability. This switch could be ideal for gamers or typists looking for a straightforward yet effective option. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
T2
Stem material
pom
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
stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Perky and Jerrzi Poseidon keyboards utilize distinctly different housing materials in their switch designs, with the Perky employing nylon for both the top and bottom housings and the Poseidon employing POM for both. Nylon, used in the Perky, is characterized as a classic switch housing material that delivers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. This softness allows nylon to absorb more sound, creating a more muted, round sound when typing. Conversely, the Poseidon's POM material, while also contributing to a deeper sound profile, is noted for producing a unique sound that is similarly muted but potentially offers a more refined auditory experience. This inherent difference suggests that while both keyboards aim for a deep sound, the nuances of this sound—specifically the tonal quality—are influenced by the inherent properties of nylon versus POM.
Both keyboards will exhibit similar sound characteristics due to the shared focus on creating a deeper auditory experience, yet they will differ in terms of the tactile and acoustic responses encapsulated by the materials used. The nylon housings of the Perky inherently soften the impact sound when a key is pressed down and rounded out the sound when released, while the POM housings in the Poseidon contribute to subtler yet pleasing acoustics. As such, the Perky might produce a sound that feels warmer and softer in nature, whereas the Poseidon may offer a crisper feel despite both pushing towards a fuller sound profile in practice. Thus, while they pursue similar results, the end experience can still be compellingly divergent based on the distinctions in material characteristics.
In terms of performance, both switches will benefit from the unique qualities each housing material brings. The Perky's nylon is designed to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in distinct auditory feedback that aligns with its bottom housing characteristics, particularly when a key bottoms out. This means that users can expect a rounded sound throughout the typing experience. In the Poseidon, while the POM housings will still create a deeper, muted sound, the resultant experience may be perceived as a more polished sound production upon key release, hence emphasizing the auditory play between the top and bottom housings. In conclusion, while these switches might share the objective of achieving a muted and deeper sound profile, the individual experiences rendered by the distinct properties of nylon and POM can lead to varied typing experiences for users.
Weight
The HMX Perky linear switch and the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch demonstrate notable differences in their actuation forces. The Perky requires an actuation force of 43 grams, while the Poseidon is slightly lighter at 40 grams. This lighter force may appeal to typists and gamers looking for a more effortless keystroke, potentially allowing for longer usage periods without fatigue. However, the bottom out force of the Poseidon switch is unspecified, making it challenging to compare the full tactile experience of both switches. The Perky’s bottom out force is 50 grams, indicating that it offers a more substantial response when pressed fully down, which could be preferred by users who enjoy a heavier, more grounded feel. Overall, while the Poseidon provides a lighter actuation, the Perky offers more measurable feedback during bottoming out, appealing to different user preferences.
Travel distance
Both the HMX Perky linear switch and the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch feature the same travel distance of 3.4 mm, which means that when pressing down on the keys of either switch, users will experience the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. This equal travel distance results in a similar tactile feedback and overall typing experience, making either switch a suitable choice for those who prefer a consistent feel and performance while typing or gaming.
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 Jerrzi Poseidon has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Poseidon for $3.59.
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
In the realm of sound, the HMX Perky linear switch is noted for its quieter operation, characterized by a soft and muted acoustic profile that is appealing for those who prefer an unobtrusive typing experience. However, without information on the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch, we cannot effectively compare its auditory characteristics. It's important to remember that the sound produced by any switch can also be influenced by external factors, including the keyboard build and keycap materials used, which can lead to variations in the overall auditory output.
When it comes to feel, the Perky switch is recognized for its neutral and deeply satisfying typing experience, which provides a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke with a shorter travel distance. Unfortunately, the Jerrzi Poseidon switch lacks available information regarding its tactile feedback and overall typing sensation. This leaves a gap in understanding how the feel of the Poseidon may complement or differ from the Perky.
Ultimately, both the HMX Perky and Jerrzi Poseidon linear switches present unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. While users seeking a quieter switch with a maddeningly pleasant feel may gravitate towards the Perky, the lack of specific information on the Poseidon switch leaves its overall performance somewhat ambiguous. If the Poseidon switch shares similar qualities, users can expect a typing experience that aligns closely with the satisfaction provided by the Perky, but until more details emerge, definitive comparisons remain speculative.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Perky linear switch and the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch, consider your typing preferences and what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard experience. If you value a light touch and enjoy a softer, neutral typing experience, the Perky switch is an excellent choice. Its 50-gram bottom-out force allows for effortless keystrokes, making it ideal for extensive typing sessions and fast-paced gaming, and the condensed travel distance enhances your overall speed and accuracy. The textured nylon housing also contributes to a tactile experience that many users find deeply satisfying. On the other hand, if you prefer a more customizable feel or are curious about trying a switch without set specifications, the Jerrzi Poseidon could be a good option, offering a unique yet unspecified experience that may pique your interest. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you favor a precise and responsive touch like that of the Perky, or wish to explore the nuances that the Poseidon may bring.
Mentioned in this article
