HMX Perky vs. Durock Sea Glass
An in-depth look at the HMX Perky and the Durock Sea Glass 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 Sea Glass present two distinct yet appealing options for users seeking a satisfying typing experience. The HMX Perky, known for its softer and glittery nylon housings, offers a compact typing experience with a shorter travel distance, making it a great choice for those who appreciate quick, responsive keystrokes without the distraction of excessive force. On the other hand, the Durock Sea Glass switches captivate users with their beautiful pastel colors and a typing experience characterized by a unique blend of dryness, wispiness, and a pleasantly hollow sound signature, offering a gentle 62g bottom-out force that feels both light and fluid. While the Perky excels in providing a cozy and satisfying feel, the Sea Glass enchants with its aesthetic appeal and frictionless typing mechanics. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T2
Stem material
P3+
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Perky and the Durock Sea Glass, one immediately notices a divergence in the specific blends used in their constructions. The Perky features a classic nylon composition for both its top and bottom housings, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is largely due to nylon's properties as a softer plastic, which absorbs sound effectively and results in a more muted acoustic character. In contrast, the Sea Glass utilizes a unique blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE (Ultra-High-Molecular-Weight Polyethylene) for its housings. This blend introduces a slightly brighter sound profile that, while still pleasant, is notably different from the characteristic warmth produced by the Perky.
Despite their differences, both switch housings share similarities in that they aim to produce favorable sound profiles suited for a comfortable typing experience. The nylon used in the Perky housing excels at delivering a rounded acoustic quality, while the Sea Glass's combination offers a balance that's not overly sharp yet remains distinctively brighter. It's important to note that the attributes of sound production are influenced by both the top and bottom housings: the Perky's consistent nylon throughout delivers a unified sound experience, while the Sea Glass’s blend might allow for a more varied auditory experience depending on which aspect of the switch is engaged.
Ultimately, if one seeks similar results in terms of user experience, the key lies in understanding how the material properties affect the nuances in sound and feel. In the case of the HMX Perky, the single-material construction leads to a more cohesive auditory experience, while the Durock Sea Glass harnesses the unique qualities of its material blend to create a sound profile that straddles the line between warmth and brightness. Thus, while the results may differ slightly due to the materials employed, both switches can offer satisfactory typing experiences, each bringing their unique characteristics to the forefront.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Perky linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force that cater to different user preferences. The Perky features a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for users who favor a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Sea Glass has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a more substantial bottom out force of 62 grams, appealing to those who prefer a more robust typing experience. While both switches provide distinct tactile feedback, the Perky is the lighter option overall, whereas the Sea Glass, with its greater forces, offers a heftier feel. Users seeking a more plush typing experience may gravitate towards the Sea Glass, while the Perky would suit those looking for reduced strain during long use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Perky linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, notable differences emerge. The HMX Perky has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it the shorter option between the two. In contrast, the Durock Sea Glass offers a travel distance of 3.8 mm, which is longer and may provide a more pronounced tactile experience. For users who prioritize a quick response time, the Perky might be preferable due to its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a deeper feel during key presses may lean towards the Sea Glass. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for key travel depth and responsiveness.
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 Sea Glass has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Glass for $4.87.
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
The sound produced by the HMX Perky linear switch is characterized by a softer, more subdued auditory profile, contributing to a typing experience that is neutral and deeply satisfying. In contrast, the Durock Sea Glass switches exhibit a uniquely hollow sound signature that is airy and wisp-like. This difference suggests that the Sea Glass may offer a more distinctive auditory experience that stands out amidst the clatter of a mechanical keyboard, while the Perky maintains a quieter, more understated presence.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Perky provides a condensed typing experience due to its shorter travel distance and soft nylon housing. This results in an overall typing experience that is smooth yet firmly controlled. On the other hand, the Sea Glass switch makes a compelling case with descriptors like frictionless, mild, and even feathery. These attributes ensure that key presses are effortless and comfortable, significantly reducing finger fatigue over extended periods. The Sea Glass offers a light and responsive feel that caters not only to typing but also gaming and other activities that require fast key inputs.
In conclusion, while both the HMX Perky and Durock Sea Glass switches offer appealing qualities, they cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Perky leans toward a more muted and controlled auditory experience with a satisfying touch, whereas the Sea Glass presents an interesting mix of airy sound and light, frictionless feel that may appeal to those preferring a more delicate typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between them will depend on whether you prioritize a subdued sound profile or a uniquely airy touch, even if both switches can result in a deeply satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Perky linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you favor a lighter keystroke and appreciate the satisfying but neutral feedback that the Perky provides, especially during long typing sessions or casual gaming, the Perky's 50-gram bottom-out force and its shorter travel distance would be an excellent match. The glittery nylon housing combines a comfortable feel with a condensed typing experience, making it ideal for those who want minimal resistance and a gentle touch. Conversely, if you prefer a switch with a bit more weight—without sacrificing smoothness—you might gravitate towards the Durock Sea Glass. With a bottom-out force of 62 grams, these switches offer a unique typing experience characterized by their frictionless and airy feel, which can make typing feel effortless despite the added weight. Moreover, their distinct hollow sound signature could appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory texture in their typing. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your typing style, whether you seek the subtlety of the Perky or the pronounced smoothness of the Sea Glass, ensuring that your keyboard enhances your overall experience.
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