HMX Perky vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the HMX Perky and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Perky and KTT Purple Star both present compelling options for different types of typists. The HMX Perky is celebrated for its softer nylon housings that offer a delightful typing experience, characterized by its shorter travel distance, which allows for a condensed yet satisfying feel. This makes it a great choice for those who prefer a snappy response without the need for excessive force. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star, with its all-POM construction, delivers a buttery smooth experience that is enhanced by a low-pitched, mild acoustics profile and a feather-light 45g bottom-out force, catering to those who favor a softer touch and comfort in prolonged typing sessions. While both switches boast a linear design for a fluid keystroke, they each offer unique qualities that can appeal to various 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
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
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
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Perky and the KTT Purple Star, we can observe distinct differences in the chosen materials. The Perky features a nylon top and bottom housing, a classic material in the keyboard switch industry known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon’s relatively softer characteristics contribute to its sound absorption qualities, which help create a duller and rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Purple Star employs POM (polyoxymethylene) for both its top and bottom housings. POM is acclaimed for its unique and pleasing sound profile that also leans towards the deeper and more muted end of the spectrum but is poised to offer slightly different acoustic characteristics due to the inherent properties of the material.
Despite their differing materials, both the HMX Perky and KTT Purple Star switches can produce similar auditory results. The nylon of the Perky retains sound due to its softness, which can exhibit muted qualities akin to the POM in the Purple Star. This means that while the materials are not identical, users may still experience a relatively comparable sound profile when typing, thanks to the fundamental characteristics these materials impart. With nylon's superior sound absorption and POM's unique acoustic properties, both switches provide a full-bodied auditory experience, appealing to users who prefer deeper, rounder sound profiles.
However, the way the two switches influence the typing experience differs due to their distinct housing combinations. The Perky, with its nylon constructions, will impart its sound and feel consistently across both layers, likely resulting in a uniform feel when bottoming out. Meanwhile, the Purple Star's POM materials may cause a variation in the tactile feedback due to the different acoustic properties of the top and bottom housings. As a result, when users press down on the switches, they may notice that each switch affects the bottom-out feel and sound differently, allowing the unique qualities of each housing material to contribute to the typing experience in their own memorable ways.
Weight
The HMX Perky linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch both exhibit the same actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making them relatively light switches overall. This similarity in specifications suggests that users can expect comparable tactile feedback and typing experiences from both switches. Because they share the same actuation and bottom out forces, users looking for a switch that promotes longer typing sessions without fatigue may find both options equally appealing. Those who prefer a more substantial feel might not gravitate towards either, as their lighter design focuses more on ease of actuation rather than a heavier, more robust push feel. Overall, both the Perky and the Purple Star provide a consistent experience for those who favor lighter switches.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Perky and KTT Purple Star linear switches, the Perky has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Purple Star measures slightly longer at 3.5 mm. This makes the HMX Perky the shorter of the two switches by 0.1 mm. For gamers or those who favor quicker response times, the Perky may have an edge due to its shorter travel distance, which can facilitate faster key presses. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Purple Star might appeal to users seeking a more substantial feel when typing, as it offers a bit more depth. Overall, while both switches provide a relatively similar experience, the choice between them ultimately boils down to personal preference regarding response time versus tactile satisfaction.
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 Purple Star comes in at $4.88 per 10 switches.
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 terms of sound, the HMX Perky linear switch is noted for its neutral sound profile, which is designed to create a typing experience that is unobtrusive and pleasant, allowing for extended use without auditory fatigue. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star produces a low-pitched sound characterized as bass-heavy and mellow, providing a smoother auditory experience that can be particularly satisfying in a quiet setting. Sound is also influenced by elements such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps, so both switches may require some experimentation to achieve the desired auditory result.
Regarding the feel, the Perky switch is celebrated for its shorter travel distance, allowing for a condensed typing experience that feels responsive and satisfying without being overly harsh. This design contributes to a generally neutral tactile sensation. Conversely, the Purple Star switch is described as offering a mild and easy-to-press feel, requiring minimal force thanks to its light 45g bottom-out weight. This makes it especially suitable for lighter typists, providing a gentle resistance that reduces finger fatigue during prolonged use. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Perky providing a more precise experience and the Purple Star emphasizing comfort and ease.
In summary, while the HMX Perky and KTT Purple Star linear switches cater to different user preferences, their subjective qualities highlight distinct strengths. The Perky offers a neutral sound and a professionally-designed typing experience, balanced and efficient with its shorter travel distance. In contrast, the Purple Star appeals to those seeking a buttery smooth feel, light actuation force, and a mellow auditory signature. Depending on your typing habits and environment, you can achieve a satisfying typing experience with either switch, whether you prefer the precision of the Perky or the ease of the Purple Star.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Perky linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, consider your personal typing style and preferences. If you lean towards a typing experience that feels neutral yet deeply satisfying, the Perky is an excellent choice. Its shorter travel distance and softer nylon housing provide a condensed and responsive feel, making it suitable for users who appreciate a slightly more tactile experience with a sprinkling of personality. On the other hand, if you prefer an ultra-smooth and effortless typing experience, the KTT Purple Star is the way to go. With its all-POM construction, you can enjoy that buttery feel along with a low-pitched and mellow sound that won’t be distracting during long typing sessions. The Purple Star’s gentle resistance and light actuation force are perfect for light typists or anyone looking to minimize finger fatigue. Ultimately, your choice boils down to whether you value that satisfying, slightly more pronounced response of the Perky or the silky-smooth comfort of the Purple Star.
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