HMX Perky vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the HMX Perky and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Perky and Dareu Snow each offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. The HMX Perky is celebrated for its softer, glittery nylon housings, delivering a neutral yet deeply satisfying typing experience, complete with a shorter travel distance that promotes quick, efficient keystrokes. In contrast, the Dareu Snow switch distinguishes itself through its innovative POK material, providing a smooth typing experience coupled with a low-pitched, thocky sound signature that many users find particularly enjoyable. While the Perky excels in offering a condensed and swift typing feel, the Snow charms users with its deeper auditory feedback and bouncy responsiveness. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
POK
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Perky and the Dareu Snow, a notable distinction lies in their top housings. The Perky utilizes nylon, a material known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs sound effectively. This characteristic results in a typing experience that is inherently duller and rounder, aligning with users who appreciate a muted acoustic feedback. In contrast, the Dareu Snow features a POK material, or polyketone, that brings a different set of attributes. While both materials contribute to the overall sound quality of the switches, POK is engineered to be exceptionally smooth and has a higher durability factor compared to nylon, yielding a more clacky sound. Therefore, while the Perky might appeal to those seeking a softer auditory experience, the Snow caters to users who prefer a sharper, more resonant keystroke.
In terms of the bottom housings, both the HMX Perky and the Dareu Snow employ nylon, establishing a common ground between the two keyboards. This shared element means that when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel during keystrokes, both switches will exhibit similar acoustic qualities. The nylon's softer plastic property ensures that the bottom housing contributes significantly to the sound profile—resulting in a deeper and more muted auditory feedback in each case. Users looking for a smooth transition and quieter bottoming out can find both keyboards appealing since they share this nylon material for their bottom housings.
Overall, the different top housing materials in the HMX Perky and the Dareu Snow create distinct typing experiences, while the shared nylon bottom housing provides a consistent sonic quality between the two. The variation in the top housings will be most apparent when users let go of the keys, as the unique attributes of the POK material in the Snow introduce a more pronounced acoustic feedback compared to the Perky's nylon top. Thus, while the Perky and Snow may deliver a different auditory signature, they still share a foundational sound profile due to the nylon bottom housing. This combination ultimately allows for a diverse range of experiences that cater to different typing preferences while maintaining some structural similarities.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Perky linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, significant differences in both actuation force and bottom out force emerge. The Perky switch features a light actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a more effortless keystroke, promoting longer typing sessions and comfortable gaming experiences. In contrast, the Dareu Snow switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, catering to those who favor a more substantial typing experience. This heavier resistance can provide a more satisfying tactile feedback, which is often preferred by users looking for a stronger push feel. Therefore, while the Perky switch is lighter and more conducive to extended use, the Snow switch offers a firmer touch for those desiring a more robust keystroke. The difference in forces implies that users will experience distinct tactile sensations based on their preference for lighter versus heavier switches.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Perky linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The Perky has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Snow measures slightly shorter at 3.3 mm. This makes the Snow the shorter option, providing a slightly more responsive feel that may appeal to gamers seeking quick key presses. On the other hand, the Perky's longer travel distance may be preferable for users who enjoy a more profound typing experience, offering a bit more feedback with each keystroke. Both switches reflect recent trends towards shorter travel distances for enhanced responsiveness, yet those who appreciate a more substantial depth in their keystrokes will likely favor the Perky.
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 Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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 offers a typing experience that is likely more subdued and neutral, but specific sound descriptors are not provided. It gives a fairly standard audio feedback that may be suitable for various environments, contributing to a comfortable typing experience without being overly loud. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow switch creates a distinctly deeper sound signature, characterized by its thocky tone, which produces a rich and satisfying thud upon actuation. This switch also has a neutral sound option and is low-pitched, providing a bass-heavy and mellow auditory experience that can be quite appealing for users looking for a more gratifying auditory response during typing.
When it comes to feel, the Perky switch is noted for its soft nylon housing, which may lead to a generally smooth and pleasant typing experience, although no specific descriptors of the tactile feedback are mentioned. In comparison, the Snow switch stands out with its bouncy feel, offering a spring-like and elastic feedback that makes each keystroke feel lively and engaging. This rebound effect can enhance the user’s typing experience, making it feel more responsive and dynamic.
In conclusion, while the HMX Perky and Dareu Snow switches cater to different preferences, they both promise an enjoyable typing experience. The Perky provides a more neutral sound profile and a satisfying feel, appealing to those who prefer a subtler touch. In contrast, the Dareu Snow switch excels in auditory satisfaction with its thocky sound and lively bouncy response. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, you may enjoy similar results by selecting the switch that best aligns with your typing style and environment.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Perky linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, your choice should reflect your typing preferences and the characteristics you value in a switch. If you favor a lighter touch and a condensed typing experience, the HMX Perky switch is an excellent option. With a bottom-out force of 50 grams and a softer nylon housing, the Perky delivers a satisfying and neutral feel, making it particularly appealing for extended typing sessions or casual gaming where rapid key presses are involved. Additionally, if you appreciate a more straightforward sound, the Perky's sound profile may suit you well. On the other hand, if you appreciate a bit more resistance in your keys and enjoy a deeper acoustic signature, the Dareu Snow switch would be the better choice. With its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams and its thocky sound produced by the POK material, the Snow switch offers a more bouncy and engaging feel, promising a lively typing experience that can enhance both productivity and enjoyment in gaming. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your personal preferences in switch feel, sound, and force, ensuring that each keystroke is enjoyable in its own right.
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