HMX Perky vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g
An in-depth look at the HMX Perky and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches for your typing style, the HMX Perky and HMX Silent Sakura - 43g stand out as excellent options, each offering unique benefits that cater to different user preferences. The HMX Perky, with its softer and glittery nylon housing, is designed for those who enjoy a neutral and deeply satisfying typing experience, making it ideal for gamers and typists who appreciate a condensed typing feel due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g features a whisper-quiet operation that makes every keystroke feel like gentle raindrops dancing on a window, perfect for light typists or anyone who works in shared spaces where noise is a concern. While the Perky excels in tactile satisfaction and speed, the Silent Sakura prioritizes tranquility and ease of use. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Partial box
Stem material
T2
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Perky and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g, it's clear that both switches utilize a nylon top housing, which is a common choice among mechanical switches. The use of nylon in both models contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the softer plastic absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials. This characteristic results in a rounder auditory experience that many typists appreciate, creating a satisfying keystroke that can enhance the overall typing experience. Therefore, users of either switch can expect similar auditory qualities when typing, as the top housing material is identical.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the two switches diverge significantly in their composition. The HMX Perky retains the same nylon material in its bottom housing, ensuring a consistent sound profile across the switch. Meanwhile, the Silent Sakura - 43g features a polycarbonate bottom housing, known for its stiffer properties that provide a sharper and more resonant sound. The strength of polycarbonate lends itself to a higher-pitched auditory experience, which stands in contrast to the duller characteristics of the nylon bottom found in the Perky. As a result, the Silent Sakura delivers a more pronounced sound when bottoming out, emphasizing the unique tonal qualities brought by its different material composition.
Ultimately, the combined effects of the top and bottom housing materials create a distinct sound and feel for each switch. While both the HMX Perky and Silent Sakura share the same nylon top housing leading to similar sound profiles when released, the differing bottom materials significantly influence the overall auditory experience during key presses. Users of the Silent Sakura will enjoy a crisp and clear sound during bottoming out caused by the polycarbonate, while those with the HMX Perky will appreciate a more subdued and rounded note from the consistent nylon construction. Ultimately, the choice between the two models boils down to a preference for sound profile over the entire keystroke, allowing each user to select a switch that best suits their typing style and acoustic preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Perky linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, we can see distinct differences in their characteristics. The HMX Perky features an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. This means that the Silent Sakura requires less force to activate, making it a better choice for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the HMX Perky, being slightly heavier, provides a more substantial typing experience, appealing to users who enjoy a stronger push feel. Both switches, while light, cater to different preferences, with the Silent Sakura being the lighter option overall.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Perky linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, it's clear that they differ in their specifications. The HMX Perky has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g offers a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Perky provides a shorter and potentially more responsive feel, which may be favored by gamers seeking quicker actuation times. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g, with its longer travel distance, could be preferred by those who appreciate more substantial feedback when pressing a key, as it offers a deeper key press. Ultimately, if you prioritize quick response, the Perky would be the better choice; however, for those who value a more pronounced depth in their key presses, the Silent Sakura - 43g would likely be more appealing.
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 HMX Silent Sakura - 43g comes in at $3.50 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
The HMX Perky linear switch offers a typing experience that is captivating and pleasing due to its softer nylon housing, which contributes to a muted sound profile. While specific sound characteristics aren't detailed, users can generally expect the Perky to produce a smooth and subtle sound with each keystroke, providing a satisfying auditory experience. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch has been intentionally crafted for quiet operation, evoking the image of gentle raindrops against a window. This switch is designed to be especially silent, making it an excellent choice for environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum, but, like the Perky switches, the overall sound may still vary depending on the keyboard and keycap combination used.
When it comes to feel, the Perky's construction allows for a more condensed typing experience due to its shorter travel distance, making it feel responsive and engaging under the fingers. The switch is likely to deliver a satisfying tactile sensation that enhances typing enjoyment. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura - 43g boasts an ultra-light 43g bottom-out force, catering to light typists who seek a gentle touch and an effortless keystroke. This combination prioritizes a smooth, serene feel that promotes extended typing sessions without causing strain.
In summary, while the HMX Perky and HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switches cater to slightly different preferences in terms of sound and typing feel, both offer unique benefits tailored to the user’s needs. The Perky offers a more engaged typing experience possibly paired with a subtle sound, while the Silent Sakura prioritizes a whisper-quiet and light touch. If you are looking for a delightful typing experience, you can choose either switch based on whether you prefer a more responsive feel or a quieter operation, thus making an informed decision based on your typing style and environment.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Perky linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch ultimately hinges on your specific typing preferences and environment. If you appreciate a more condensed and satisfying typing experience, the Perky switch can enhance your comfort with its slightly heavier bottom-out force of 50 grams, delivering a neutral feel that many find deeply gratifying. This option suits those who value both responsiveness and a touch of softness in their keystrokes, making it ideal for intensive typing sessions. Conversely, if you're looking for a switch that prioritizes quiet operation, the Silent Sakura - 43g is your best bet. With its ultra-light 43g bottom-out force, this switch creates an almost tranquil typing experience, perfect for shared workspaces or late-night gaming when noise levels should be kept to a minimum. The gentle sound profile and soft feel make it particularly attractive for light typists or anyone who tends to work for long hours without the distraction of audible clicks. Ultimately, your decision should reflect the balance of tactile satisfaction and the acoustic environment that best complements your typing style.
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