HMX Perky vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the HMX Perky and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Perky and KTT Strawberry offer two distinct experiences, both of which can elevate your typing and gaming sessions. The Perky switch, renowned for its softer, glittery nylon housing, provides a neutral and deeply satisfying typing experience with a notably shorter travel distance. This can result in a more condensed typing experience, making it a great choice for those who prioritize speed and efficiency in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch stands out for its visually appealing pink and clear housing while delivering smooth actuation and a comfortable feel. Categorized as low-pitched and frictionless, this switch promises a buttery and polished typing experience that many users find enjoyable for prolonged use. Ultimately, whether you lean towards the efficient design of the Perky or the silky smoothness of the Strawberry, both switches have their merits. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's ideal for your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The HMX Perky and the KTT Strawberry employ different materials for their top housings that significantly influence the auditory experience while typing. The Perky utilizes nylon, a classic switch housing material known for its softer properties. This softness contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon absorbs more sound and results in a rounded auditory experience. In contrast, the Strawberry's polycarbonate top housing features a much stiffer structure, which promotes a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it a popular choice for those who want to enhance RGB lighting effects, contrasting with the more muted aesthetic potential of nylon. Thus, while the Perky may provide a warmer sound experience, the Strawberry delivers a pronounced clarity.
Similarly, the bottom housings in both switches also reflect their respective materials’ acoustic characteristics. The Perky's nylon bottom housing reiterates the softer sound profile presented by its top housing. This design choice contributes to a consistently deeper sound that aligns with the switch's overall aesthetic. Conversely, the KTT Strawberry's polycarbonate bottom housing reinforces its crisp auditory signature but does so by enhancing the resonance during the bottom-out phase when the key is pressed. This distinction illustrates how sound characteristics can vary even when the same type of material is used for different parts of a switch; the impact is differentiated by whether the user is recognizing sounds or sensations through keystrokes.
Ultimately, the audio experience generated by each switch is influenced by their respective housing materials, leading to differing auditory profiles. Although one switch may produce a duller sound and the other a sharper one, the combination of both top and bottom housings determines the overall typist experience. For those seeking more refined acoustic responses, using both nylon and polycarbonate in different parts of a switch allows for a unique blending of sound characteristics. Users who appreciate the deeper vibrational qualities of the Perky can still achieve similar results by mindful usage of the KTT Strawberry, tweaking typing pressure and style to emphasize either bottom-out feelings or after-release sounds. The choice comes down to personal preference and desired auditory experience.
Weight
The HMX Perky linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch provide distinct differences in terms of their bottom out forces, despite sharing the same actuation force of 43 grams. The Perky switch is classified as light, with a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for extended typing sessions and satisfying for users seeking a softer feel. In contrast, the Strawberry switch has a higher bottom out force of 62 grams, categorizing it as medium in weight and providing a more substantial typing experience that some users may prefer. Therefore, while both switches demand the same effort to produce a keystroke at 43 grams, the overall typing experience diverges due to the heavier bottom out force of the KTT Strawberry switch. This difference underscores the importance of individual preferences when choosing between these two switches—lighter actuation for comfort versus heavier bottom out for a more tactile experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Perky linear switch to the KTT Strawberry linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The Perky has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Strawberry features a larger travel distance of 4 mm, categorizing it as the longer switch. This distinction means that users who favor quicker response times may gravitate towards the Perky for its shorter travel distance, as it allows for faster actuation, ideal for gaming scenarios. Conversely, those who appreciate a more pronounced depth in their keystrokes and prefer a less abrupt feel may opt for the Strawberry due to its ample travel distance, which can provide a more satisfying typing experience. Thus, the choice between these switches ultimately depends on individual preferences regarding responsiveness versus depth.
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 KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91 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
In terms of sound, the HMX Perky linear switch does not have specific descriptors provided, making it difficult to establish its acoustic characteristics. However, the KTT Strawberry switch is characterized by a low-pitched tone, which lends a bass-heavy and mellow quality to its sound profile. This mellowness can create a more pleasant auditory experience while typing, as it avoids the higher-frequency sounds that can be grating over extended use. It’s essential to note that the perceived sound can vary based on the keyboard build and type of keycaps used, but the Strawberry's inherent low-pitched quality gives it a distinct edge in creating a less intrusive sound environment.
When examining the feel of both switches, the HMX Perky linear switch is not described in detail, leaving an opportunity for personal exploration. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry comes highly recommended for its frictionless feel, promoting an incredibly smooth typing experience with minimal resistance. This switch is further celebrated for its silky, buttery, and polished characteristics, contributing to a refined typing action that is seamless and enjoyable. The combination of these qualities ensures effortless key presses, allowing users to experience both comfort and satisfaction during prolonged typing sessions.
In conclusion, while the HMX Perky linear switch lacks specific details about its sound and feel, the KTT Strawberry switch clearly excels with its desirable low-pitched audio and an exceptionally smooth tactile experience. If one is seeking a satisfying typing encounter, the Strawberry certainly represents a reliable choice. However, without in-depth sound and feel descriptions for the Perky switch, it remains uncertain if it can match the performance of the Strawberry. Ultimately, individuals may need to try both switches to fully appreciate their unique qualities and determine which aligns better with their preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Perky linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, consider your personal preferences and use cases. If you prefer a lighter key press, enjoy a condensed typing experience, and appreciate a more neutral yet satisfying feel, the HMX Perky is likely your best option. Its softer, glittery nylon housing and shorter travel distance can make it an ideal choice for fast-paced typing or gaming where quick actuation is key. On the other hand, if you favor a medium bottom-out force for more tactile feedback, the KTT Strawberry switch is designed for you. Its smooth, frictionless actuation and silky feel deliver a refined typing experience that is both comfortable and reliable, appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke and a low-pitched sound profile. In short, your selection should align with your typing style and the sound or feel you enjoy most, ensuring that your keyboard meets your unique needs.
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