HMX Perky vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the HMX Perky and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the HMX Perky and the Gateron Silent Ink Black presents a fascinating comparison for any typing enthusiast. The HMX Perky switches stand out for their unique softer and glittery nylon housings, delivering a deeply satisfying and neutral typing experience, complemented by a shorter travel distance that makes for a more condensed input process. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches cater to those seeking a quieter environment; their silenced design offers a plush, pillow-like feel at bottom-out, minimizing audio feedback while typing. While the Perky excels in delivering an engaging and responsive feel, the Silent Ink Black is perfect for users who prioritize peace and discretion in shared or quiet spaces. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Perky and the Gateron Silent Ink Black offer distinct auditory experiences that reflect the unique characteristics of their respective designs. The HMX Perky utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, a material renowned for its softer properties. This softness means that the nylon absorbs more sound, producing a deeper and fuller audio profile when typing. As a result, the Perky's switches offer a muted and rounded sound that provides a rich typing experience, emphasizing a sound signature that many users may find warm and engaging.
Conversely, the Gateron Silent Ink Black employs a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housings. While the INK blend may not replicate nylon's depth and fullness, it instead delivers a higher-pitched and clacky sound profile. This distinctive sound signature comes from the hardier nature of the INK blend, which reflects sound more than it absorbs. Therefore, typing on the Silent Ink Black switches leads to a crisp auditory feedback that's often described as satisfying. Even though both switches are constructed with different materials, each delivers a unique auditory experience harnessed by the qualities of its housing.
Ultimately, the contrasting housing materials create a divide in the auditory results of the two switches, yet they still adhere to common principles of sound dynamics within keyboard switches. For instance, since both switches feature different materials in their top and bottom housings, the impact on sound perception can still be distinctly felt. The bottom housing of the Perky will dictate a deeper bottom-out sound due to its nylon construction, while the INK blend of the Silent Ink Black will maintain its sharp audio clarity. Users who switch between these two sets will appreciate how diverse materials can deliver similarly engaging experiences, tailored to individual preferences in sound profile and tactile response.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Perky linear switch to the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, there's a notable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Perky features a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer ease of typing, particularly for prolonged use in work or gaming environments. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black requires a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Thus, while the Perky switch is lighter and better for extended sessions, the Silent Ink Black provides a firmer push, catering to those who prefer a heavier switch feel. Overall, if you prioritize a lighter touch, the Perky is the clear choice, whereas the Silent Ink Black would serve well for those who appreciate more resistance in their keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Perky linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, we find that they differ significantly. The Perky has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Silent Ink Black extends to 4 mm. This makes the Perky the shorter option, providing a more responsive feel that many gamers might appreciate for quicker key presses. Conversely, the Silent Ink Black, with its longer travel distance, may cater to those who prefer a more substantial key press experience, offering a sense of depth that some users find more satisfying. Ultimately, your preference will hinge on whether you value responsiveness over a deeper actuation feel.
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 Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
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 offers a neutral auditory profile that is generally pleasant for typing, while its softer nylon housing contributes to a less noticeable acoustic presence compared to more traditional switches. Although specific decibel levels are not detailed, users can expect a less clacky sound, making it suitable for a variety of environments. In contrast, the Gateron Silent Ink Black excels in creating a much quieter experience with its muted sound characteristic. These switches are specifically designed to reduce noise levels, making them an ideal choice for settings where discretion is paramount. Therefore, if minimizing sound is essential in your typing environment, the Silent Ink Black would be the clear winner.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Perky is celebrated for its satisfying typing experience, providing a neutral yet enjoyable tactile response that users often appreciate during extended typing sessions. Its shorter travel distance contributes to a more condensed typing experience, which can be advantageous for those who prefer a quicker response without too much resistance. The Gateron Silent Ink Black, on the other hand, is engineered to provide a luxuriously silky and polished feel, characterized by smooth key presses and minimal friction. This makes for an incredibly refined typing experience that enhances overall fluidity and comfort, especially during prolonged usage. Both switches offer distinct but pleasant tactile characteristics catering to different preferences; however, they excel in different aspects of the typing experience.
In summary, the HMX Perky and Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switches cater to different user needs and environments. The Perky excels in providing a satisfying and neutral sound with a more condensed typing feel, while the Silent Ink Black prioritizes quietness and a polished, silky tactile experience. Ultimately, your choice between these switches should be guided by your specific preferences for sound and feel, as they will yield differing yet equally enjoyable typing experiences.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Perky linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and environment. If you enjoy a lighter touch and crave a deeply satisfying, neutral typing experience with a condensed travel distance, the Perky switch is likely your best option. Its softer nylon housing provides a pleasant tactile response, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions where comfort is key. On the other hand, if you're working in a noise-sensitive environment and prefer a medium-heavy actuation force, the Silent Ink Black would be the superior choice. Its muted sound profile ensures minimal audio feedback, allowing you to type quietly without disturbing those around you. Additionally, the silky and polished feel of the Silent Ink Black enhances smoothness and reduces key friction, making it perfect for precision typing. By considering these factors, you'll be able to select the switch that aligns best with your typing style and environment.
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