HMX Perky vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)
An in-depth look at the HMX Perky and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Perky and Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) each present unique attributes suited to different typing preferences. The HMX Perky, a linear switch, stands out with its softer, glittery nylon housing, providing a neutral and deeply satisfying typing experience. With a shorter travel distance, these switches create a more condensed feel that many users find appealing for swift, uninterrupted keystrokes. On the other hand, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) utilizes hall effect technology, delivering a delightfully balanced typing experience characterized by a neutral sound signature that offers the coveted "thock" sound sought after by enthusiasts. The super smooth keystroke of the Sticky Rice, aided by its dustproof stem, minimizes wobble and enhances performance, making it an attractive option for those looking for a refined tactile sensation. Both switches cater to different desires: the Perky emphasizes speed and smoothness, while the Sticky Rice ships with a rich auditory feedback and an overall tactile delight. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
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 Everglide Sticky Rice (V2), distinct differences emerge between their top housings, while their bottom housings share commonality. The Perky utilizes nylon for its top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer properties. This softness allows the nylon to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, creating a sound that can be described as duller and rounder. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing, which generates a sharper and more high-pitched sound profile. Polycarbonate's rigidity leads to a clearer and more resonant sound, making it particularly effective in supporting RGB lighting aesthetics due to its translucent nature. Here, the two switches diverge, with the Perky favoring a warm, mellow audio experience while the Sticky Rice (V2) aims for brightness and clarity.
However, the HMX Perky and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) find common ground in their bottom housing materials, both of which are crafted from nylon. This shared element brings a consistency in the auditory experience of bottoming out. The nylon in both switches elicits a deeper sound profile, characterized by its ability to absorb sound and create that desirable full-bodied tonal quality. When typing on either switch, the bottom-out experience is likely to feel similar due to the shared impact that the nylon material has on that aspect of the switch. Therefore, despite the differences in their top housings, the switches are likely to perform favorably in terms of sound profile upon bottoming out.
Ultimately, the different top housing materials contribute distinctively to each switch's overall audio signature, while the uniformity in the bottom housing offers a familiar feel for users. Those who prefer the Perky may appreciate the richer auditory experience provided by the nylon top, while fans of the Sticky Rice (V2) could be drawn to the clarity and resonance enabled by its polycarbonate top. Regardless of the preference, the bottom housing's shared nylon material ensures a consistent experience when pressing down the keys, affording users the chance to enjoy similar tactile and auditory results when bottoming out.
Weight
Comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Perky linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch reveals some intriguing similarities and differences. The Perky switch has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force identical to the Sticky Rice (V2) at 50 grams. This means that while both switches feature a bottom out force of 50 grams, the Sticky Rice (V2) is lighter in terms of actuation force at 40 grams compared to the Perky's 43 grams. Consequently, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) is the lighter option, providing an easier actuation that is favorable for those who prefer a lighter touch and longer typing sessions. Conversely, the HMX Perky, with its slightly higher actuation force, may appeal to those who seek a more substantial typing experience. In terms of bottom out feel, both switches offer a consistent push-back at 50 grams, ensuring the user experiences similar feedback when bottoming out. Overall, the selection between these two reflects a balance between preference for lighter or heavier actuation forces, while both maintain the same resistance at bottom out.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Perky linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, it is clear that the two switches have slightly different specifications. The Perky has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Sticky Rice (V2) features a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Perky offers a shorter travel distance, which may be more appealing to gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the Sticky Rice (V2), with its longer travel distance, could offer a deeper and more satisfying keystroke experience, which some users may prefer for a more robust feel. For those prioritizing rapid responsiveness, the Perky would be the better choice, while users who enjoy a more substantial key press might lean towards the Sticky Rice (V2). Overall, while the differences are minimal—only a tenth of a millimeter—the two switches cater to different preferences in travel 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 Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sticky Rice (V2) for $6.79.
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 profile of the HMX Perky linear switch is characterized by a softer and less pronounced acoustic signature, aligning with the typical expectations of linear switches. This results in a quieter typing experience, making it ideal for environments where noise may be a concern. In contrast, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) presents a more nuanced auditory experience, offering a neutral sound signature that tends toward the desirable "thock" sound that many enthusiasts cherish. This feature not only adds an aspect of gratification during typing but also enhances the overall auditory enjoyment, especially with the right board and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Perky switch shines with its shorter travel distance, delivering a condensed and satisfying typing experience that is both neutral and appealing. The softness of its nylon housings contributes to a very pleasant tactile feedback, allowing for quick and effortless keystrokes. On the other hand, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) emphasizes a super smooth keystroke, bolstered by its dustproof stem that minimizes wobble, enhancing stability and ultimately providing a refined tactile sensation. While both maintain a linear feel, the Sticky Rice strives for a more elevated experience through its construction and design.
Overall, both the HMX Perky linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch cater to similar preferences with their focus on sound and feel. The Perky offers a softer and quieter experience, which is great for those who appreciate a more subdued typing sound, while the Sticky Rice combines a smooth keystroke with a satisfying, yet nuanced, auditory feedback. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and tactile satisfaction, either switch could fit well into your typing setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Perky linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch hinges on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you're looking for a lightweight switch that provides a satisfying yet neutral typing experience with a shorter travel distance, the Perky is an excellent option. Its softer nylon housing contributes to a more condensed feel, making it suitable for fast-paced typing and gaming scenarios where speed is paramount. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more refined tactile sensation with a balanced sound signature - especially the coveted "thock" - the Sticky Rice (V2) switch is likely to meet your expectations. Its super smooth keystroke and dustproof stem design minimizes wobble, making it ideal for those who enjoy a polished experience while typing or gaming. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you prioritize speed and a condensed feel or a refined sound and smooth performance.
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