HMX Perky vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the HMX Perky and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to enhancing your typing experience, choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch is pivotal, and two noteworthy options are the HMX Perky and the Gateron Quinn. The Perky, a linear switch, stands out with its softer, glittery nylon housings that deliver a neutral and deeply satisfying typing experience. Its shorter travel distance allows for a more condensed and efficient keystroke, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize speed and fluidity in their typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn, a tactile switch, captivates users with its crisp, light switch-like tactility combined with a deep, resonant sound profile. The specially designed nylon housings of the Quinn produce a rich auditory feedback that enhances the typing experience, offering a precise and clean tactile bump with each stroke. While the Perky is ideal for fast typists looking for smooth and uninterrupted keystrokes, the Quinn appeals to those who appreciate a dynamic auditory and tactile experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your personal typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
59g
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
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
When evaluating the housing materials of the HMX Perky and Gateron Quinn switches, it is important to note that both feature nylon in their construction. Both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, which is a well-regarded material in the world of mechanical switches due to its inherent properties. Nylon's softer composition enables it to absorb sound effectively, producing a richer and more subdued auditory experience while typing. Consequently, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile from both the Perky and Quinn switches, resulting in a typing experience that reduces harshness and enhances user satisfaction.
The uniform use of nylon in both the Perky and Quinn switches means that they share similar acoustic characteristics. Given that both switches exhibit a duller and rounder sound, the end user will likely observe little to no difference in sound performance between the two when typing. The nylon material contributes significantly to the overall tactile feedback, and since the characteristics of the housing materials are the same, the feel when bottoming out or releasing the keys will also be similar. This uniformity allows typists to gain a consistent experience across both switches, despite any potential differences in their designs or internal mechanisms.
Moreover, if the top and bottom housings were to differ in material—though both, in this case, being nylon—one would notice a more distinct impact on the sound profile and feel when engaging the switches. In both the Perky and Quinn, however, the use of nylon for both components means that the housing qualities will harmoniously combine, leading to a unified typing experience. Users can confidently choose either switch, knowing that the sound absorption properties of nylon will contribute to a pleasant and consistent feel—both during key presses and releases, reinforced by the characteristics of the low-frequency sound response afforded by the nylon material.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Perky linear switch to the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces can be observed. The Perky features a relatively light actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for users looking for an easier typing experience, especially during long work sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Quinn has a heavier actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. While both switches provide distinct experiences due to their weight, the Perky is clearly the lighter option, offering a softer touch, whereas the Quinn caters to those who enjoy the tactile feedback that comes with increased force. Thus, users will find that the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference for either lighter or heavier keystrokes.
Travel distance
Both the HMX Perky linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch have an identical travel distance of 3.4 mm. This similarity means that when pressing down on either switch, users will experience the same distance movement, which can provide a consistent feel across both switches. Consequently, if you're looking for a tactile response or smooth keystrokes without adjusting for different travel distances, you can expect comparable performance from both options. Overall, the equal travel distance suggests that both switches can deliver similar typing experiences in terms of key actuation depth.
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 Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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 is noted for its neutral and deeply satisfying auditory profile, although specific details on its sound characteristics remain unspecified. In contrast, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers a more defined auditory experience, featuring a unique combination of bassy and clacky qualities. Users will enjoy a deep, resonant sound with key presses that resonates in the lower frequency range, alongside a crisp, sharp, and percussive element that makes each keystroke feel engaging. This creates a rich and immersive sound profile, making the typing experience with the Quinn switches notably vibrant compared to the more subdued qualities of the Perky.
In terms of feel, the HMX Perky switch is characterized by its neutral typing experience owing to its softer nylon housings, which are designed for a condensed key travel. However, specific descriptors regarding its tactile feedback are absent. Meanwhile, the Gateron Quinn excels with a range of tactile sensations; it is snappy and responsive, ensuring each keystroke feels alive and engaging. This is complemented by its polished and buttery surface finish, which provides reduced friction and smooth key travel, resulting in an overall lively and ergonomic typing experience. The Quinn's tactile bump is clean and precise, giving users a refined feedback that enhances their interaction with the keyboard.
In conclusion, both switches provide unique experiences tailored to different preferences. The HMX Perky linear switch is ideal for those who appreciate a straightforward and satisfying typing sensation without pronounced auditory characteristics. In contrast, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch caters to users who enjoy a well-rounded tactile response paired with an engaging sound profile, creating a more immersive typing experience. If you seek varied auditory and tactile qualities, the Quinn is the better choice, while the Perky offers a more simplified yet effective alternative.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Perky linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you find yourself enjoying a light keystroke with a neutral and satisfying feel, the Perky switch is the better option for you. Its lower 50 grams of force and shorter travel distance provide an effortless typing experience, making it ideal for rapid typing or gaming where speed is critical. On the other hand, if you prefer a more structured tactile feedback and a rich, immersive sound, the Quinn switch will likely be your go-to. With its medium-heavy 67 grams of actuation force and a pronounced tactile bump, it caters well to those who enjoy a more responsive feel while typing, which could enhance your overall writing experience. Additionally, the Quinn's deep, resonant sound profile provides an auditory pleasure that adds character to your workstation, making it an excellent choice for leisurely typing or content creation. Each switch has its unique strengths tailored to different user experiences, so consider your priorities—whether it’s a soft touch or a tactile bump—before making your decision.
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