HMX Perky vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the HMX Perky and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Perky and the KTT Rose are two noteworthy options that cater to different preferences. The HMX Perky, with its softer and glittery nylon housing, provides a condensed typing experience characterized by a shorter travel distance, resulting in a neutral and deeply satisfying feel. This makes it an excellent choice for typists seeking speed and responsiveness, without sacrificing comfort. On the other hand, the KTT Rose combines aesthetics with functionality; although visually striking, its progressive springs deliver a typing experience that is substantial yet not overly heavy. The Rose produces a unique low-pitched sound reminiscent of bassy raindrops, adding an auditory pleasure that can enhance one's typing rhythm. In summary, while both switches offer a linear typing experience, the choice between the Perky's swift responsiveness and the Rose's satisfying acoustics ultimately depends on individual 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T2
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
Progressive spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Perky and the KTT Rose, it is evident that both switches take different approaches through their top housings, significantly influencing their sound profiles. The Perky utilizes a nylon top housing, known for its capacity to absorb sound and produce a deeper, fuller auditory experience. This characteristic is attributed to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs sound waves more effectively than harder plastics. In contrast, the KTT Rose features a polycarbonate top housing, recognized for creating a sharper, more resonant sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate contributes to its ability to deliver a higher-pitched and crisper auditory output, making for a different typing experience that is especially enhanced when RGB lighting is utilized due to its translucent properties.
Diving deeper into their bottom housings, both the Perky and Rose share a commonality with nylon as their material. This similarity lays the groundwork for a similar sound quality when it comes to the bottoming out of the switches. As both switches feature nylon in these lower sections, they are likely to convey that distinct deeper and fuller sound profile when keys are pressed down. This overlap in bottom housing material means that while the top sounds will differ dramatically, the overall auditory experience during bottom-out will retain a degree of sameness, allowing for a fuller resonance that typists may appreciate.
In essence, the different materials used in the top housings of the HMX Perky and KTT Rose create distinct sound profiles, which experience contrast in auditory characteristics during typing. While the nylon bottom housings provide a consistent, deeper sound during key press, the varied top housings shape the overall auditory experience as one releases a key. This combination of materials results in a multifaceted typing experience; typists may find that while both switches offer deeper, fuller sounds at the key's bottom, the transition in sound upon releasing a key dramatically differs between the two. Hence, those looking for a specific sound and typing feel will undoubtedly have preferences shaped by the contrasting top housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Perky linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Perky features a relatively light actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a suitable choice for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons. In contrast, the KTT Rose has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, indicating a medium-heavy feel; however, its actuation force is currently unknown. Given the heavier bottom out force of the Rose, it is evident that users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience would gravitate toward this switch. Overall, the HMX Perky is the lighter option, while the KTT Rose is the heavier choice, which may cater to different user preferences depending on their typing habits and comfort levels.
Travel distance
The HMX Perky linear switch features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the KTT Rose linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference in travel distance means that the Perky is the shorter option, offering a more responsive feel that gamers often prefer for quicker keypresses. In contrast, the Rose provides a more substantial depth with its longer travel distance, which may appeal to users who enjoy a more pronounced key experience. Both switches cater to different preferences: the Perky is ideal for those seeking fast response times, while the Rose is better suited for those who appreciate a deeper, more deliberate keystroke.
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 Rose comes in at $3.01 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 switch’s acoustic profile remains unspecified, but it can be inferred that its design may offer a moderate sound output due to its neutral typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Rose switch produces a distinctly low-pitched sound characterized by bass-heavy notes, resembling the soothing sound of raindrops when typing. These auditory qualities make the Rose switch ideal for environments where noise levels should be considered, while the Perky’s sound may cater to users seeking a more understated auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Perky switch is known for providing a neutral and satisfying typing experience, though specific descriptors of its tactile feel are not provided. Conversely, the KTT Rose switch offers a mild and polished feel, creating a gentle and smooth typing experience. This combination of mildness ensures that the typing action is approachable for both beginners and experienced typists, while the polished finish reduces friction, making every keystroke smooth. The Perky’s condensed travel distance may also provide a streamlined feel that complements the user’s overall typing experience.
In conclusion, while the HMX Perky and KTT Rose switches differ in their sound profiles—where one is more neutral and the other exhibits low-pitched, bass-heavy tones—they may provide equally satisfying typing experiences with their unique feel characteristics. The Perky switch is noted for its efficiency with a softer housing, potentially resulting in a different tactile experience than the Rose switch’s mild and polished touch. Ultimately, both switches aim to accommodate a wide array of users, ensuring that whether one prioritizes sound or feel, similar fulfilling results can be achieved with either choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Perky linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, your choice should reflect your personal preferences in typing experience, force sensitivity, and sound profile. If you lean towards a lighter touch that results in a faster and more condensed input, especially for typing or gaming where quick actions are crucial, the Perky might be your best pick due to its 50-gram actuation and softer nylon housing that promises a neutral, satisfying experience. Alternatively, if you prefer a more substantial feel under your fingers and don’t mind a bit more resistance with a medium-heavy 63.5-gram force, the KTT Rose can cater to you with its beautiful aesthetics and progressive springs that deliver a refined, bass-heavy sound along with a mild and polished touch. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy a slightly deeper feedback during typing without feeling overwhelmed. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you seek a lightweight, condensed experience or a richer, more substantial feel—it’s all about what enhances your unique typing journey.
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