HMX Perky vs. Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Perky and Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie both offer unique characteristics that appeal to different typing preferences. The HMX Perky, with its softer and glittery nylon housings, provides a condensed typing experience due to its shorter travel distance, resulting in a pleasantly neutral and satisfying feel with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie stands out for its medium-weight all-POM design, delivering a thocky sound profile and exceptional smoothness that elevates the typing experience while remaining budget-friendly. While the Perky excels in creating a tactile and visually appealing atmosphere, the Sea Salt Smoothie offers a more pronounced auditory feedback coupled with smooth actuation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Perky Linear

Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.00

$2.70 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the HMX Perky and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie switches differ significantly, with the Perky utilizing nylon for both its top and bottom housings, while the Sea Salt Smoothie opts for POM material. Nylon, as seen in the Perky, is a classic housing choice that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. This softness allows nylon to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience when typing. This characteristic can enhance the typing experience, providing a soothing acoustical response that many users appreciate.

In contrast, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie uses POM for both top and bottom housings, which results in a unique sound profile that is also on the deeper side but relatively muted. POM, being a more rigid material compared to nylon, contributes to a distinct acoustic experience that is typically cleaner and crisper while still maintaining a pleasant depth. Despite having different acoustic qualities, both switch types aim to create a satisfying typing experience, albeit through different material properties. The nylon in the Perky switch creates a softer, warmer sound, while the POM in the Sea Salt Smoothie leans toward a more refined auditory experience.

When comparing the overall typing experience, one can expect that, regardless of the differences in materials, both switches will yield a satisfactory result for the user. While the Perky's nylon housings may provide a warmer, more enveloping sound, the Sea Salt Smoothie's POM housings will offer a sharper, yet muted sound profile. In practice, this means that both switches will contribute to a fulfilling typing experience, albeit with distinct tonal differences. If one desires a softer sound, the HMX Perky may be the ideal choice, while the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie would appeal to those looking for a cleaner auditory feedback, showcasing how the nuanced differences in housing materials can impact but not diminish the overall effectiveness of the switches.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Perky linear switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, notable differences arise. The HMX Perky has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as a lighter switch, ideal for those who prefer a softer touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie has a higher actuation force of 48 grams, suggesting a slightly more resistant feel, although its bottom out force remains unknown. Consequently, the Sea Salt Smoothie will likely provide a heavier typing experience compared to the Perky, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial push while typing. Overall, if you're looking for a lighter option, the HMX Perky would be the preferred choice, while the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie may satisfy those who appreciate a firmer keystroke.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Perky linear switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, there is a notable difference. The Perky has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Sea Salt Smoothie features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that if you're looking for a switch that provides a shorter actuating distance, allowing for quicker response times—typically preferred by gamers—the HMX Perky is the better choice. Conversely, if you prefer the feel of a deeper key press that offers more resistance and a sense of engagement, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the choice depends on personal preferences concerning travel distance and typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Perky switch offers a softer, almost muted audio profile that pairs well with its glittery nylon housing, delivering a sound that is neutral and unobtrusive. This can make for a more subdued typing experience, allowing users to focus on their work without the distraction of excessive noise. Conversely, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie features a distinctly thocky sound profile, which adds a satisfying auditory feedback during typing. This deeper sound, characteristic of POM switches, contributes to an engaging and enjoyable typing experience, yet it may be more pronounced than the Perky's softness. Overall, the sound quality can vary based on the keyboard's construction, keycap material, and typing environment, but expect to get a distinctly quieter experience with the Perky compared to the thockier Sea Salt Smoothie.

Transitioning to the feel of each switch, the HMX Perky is designed to provide a stable and satisfying typing experience with its shorter travel distance, allowing for quicker keystrokes and a more condensed feel. This can be appreciated by typists who prefer rapid input and a more direct connection with their keyboard. On the other hand, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie is characterized by its medium weight, which adds a different layer of tactile response. The smoothness of POM in the Sea Salt Smoothie means that it glides effortlessly under your fingers, often described as buttery, making every keystroke feel fluid and intentional. While both switches cater well to different typing preferences, typists might find the Perky to excel in speed and responsiveness, whereas the Sea Salt Smoothie enhances comfort through its smooth action.

In summary, the HMX Perky linear switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch present distinct experiences that cater to various typing preferences. While the Perky emphasizes a neutral sound profile and a rapid, condensed feel, the Sea Salt Smoothie stands out with its thocky sound and fluidity of motion. Depending on the priorities of the user—whether that be quieter operation with immediate responsiveness or an engaging auditory feedback paired with silky smooth typing—the choice between these switches will largely depend on individual preferences and the specific typing context. Both switches are designed to provide a fulfilling typing experience, albeit with their unique traits.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the HMX Perky linear switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch hinges on your specific typing preferences and what you prioritize in a keyboard experience. If you value a lighter switch with a shorter travel distance and a softer, deeply satisfying typing feel, the Perky switch is your best bet. Its unique nylon housing contributes to a compressed and neutral typing experience, making it ideal for long bouts of typing or gaming where speed is key. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a switch that provides a balanced, medium-weight feel with a thocky sound profile and outstanding smoothness, the Sea Salt Smoothie would be the way to go. This switch, crafted from durable POM material, strikes an excellent balance between quality and affordability, making it suitable for users who want a reliable switch without breaking the bank. Therefore, consider your priorities—whether it’s a light touch and softer feel or a more robust, satisfying thock sound—when making your selection between these two delightful linear switches.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Perky Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie Linear

$3.00

$2.70 per 10

Learn more