HMX Perky vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the HMX Perky and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Perky and HMX SU offer unique features that cater to different typing preferences, even though both are linear switches. The HMX Perky is celebrated for its softer and glittery nylon housing, providing a neutral and satisfying typing experience. Its shorter travel distance contributes to a more condensed feel, making it an excellent choice for users who appreciate quick key presses and a more responsive feedback. In contrast, the HMX SU stands out with its full PA12 housing and T5 stem, delivering a subtle yet deep sound profile that enhances the auditory experience of typing. While the Perky is ideal for those seeking a swift, smooth action, the SU appeals to users who enjoy a richer sound without sacrificing linear functionality. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T2
Stem material
T5
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Perky and HMX SU are strikingly similar, as both models utilize nylon for both the top and bottom housings. This similarity means that users can expect a very comparable typing experience from both switches, characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials, resulting in a distinctively duller and rounder auditory experience when keys are pressed and released. Thus, whether a user opts for the HMX Perky or the HMX SU, they are likely to enjoy the same acoustic qualities while typing, creating a satisfying sensory experience.
Despite the identical choice of nylon for both models, it is important to recognize that the sound and feel of the switches can still vary slightly depending on how the two housings interact. The bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback when the keys are pressed down, while the top housing predominantly affects the acoustic response upon releasing the key. Therefore, even though both the Perky and SU use nylon, the user might notice subtle differences stemming from the design nuances or tolerances of individual switches, which could lead to a unique overall feel.
Ultimately, the use of nylon in both the HMX Perky and HMX SU ensures that they share essential characteristics, particularly in terms of sound profile and impact. Users can expect a smooth, soft touch with a muted auditory response from both models. As nylon absorbs sound effectively, the overall typing experience across both options will remain consistent, underscoring the advantages of utilizing a classic switch housing material. Whether opting for the Perky or SU, the similarities in housing materials promise an enjoyable, satisfying typing experience without drastic differences in quality or performance.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Perky linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, both options exhibit relatively light forces, making them suitable for extended use. The actuation force of the Perky switch is 43 grams, while the SU switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams, indicating that the Perky is the lighter option. However, both switches feature the same bottom out force of 50 grams, meaning they provide a consistent resistance once fully depressed. For typists who favor a lighter touch, the HMX Perky would be a more comfortable choice, allowing for longer typing sessions, whereas the HMX SU offers a bit more resistance at the actuation point, appealing to those who prefer a tad more feedback without sacrificing overall comfort. Ultimately, users can expect a similar experience during bottoming out, but the Perky offers a gentler actuation feel compared to the SU.
Travel distance
The HMX Perky linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the HMX SU linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Perky the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers or users who prioritize responsiveness in their typing experience. In contrast, the SU's longer travel distance may provide a more pronounced feel, catering to those who prefer a bit more depth when pressing down on keys. Although both switches are below the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance, the difference of 0.2 mm indicates that the Perky might be better suited for fast-paced environments, whereas the SU could be preferable for users who enjoy a more substantial key actuation.
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 SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
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 is known for producing a softer and more subdued sound, thanks to its glittery nylon housing which absorbs some of the acoustic vibrations, creating a uniquely pleasant auditory experience. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch has a relatively deeper sound profile attributed to its full PA12 housing and T5 stem, delivering a subtle yet richer tone when typing. Both switches will offer a satisfying auditory feedback, though the Perky may be more muted while the SU provides a more resonant experience. Ultimately, the sound produced by either switch can vary based on the keyboard layout, the keycaps used, and other environmental factors.
When it comes to the feel of these switches, the HMX Perky is designed for a condensed typing experience, featuring a shorter travel distance that leads to a quick and responsive actuation. This results in a neutral and deeply satisfying tactile experience that many users find appealing. On the other hand, the HMX SU linear switch, with its full PA12 housing, provides a more solid and grounding sensation as you type, likely due to its design and materials contributing to a denser feel. In essence, while both switches lean towards a linear feel, the Perky offers a snappier response, whereas the SU provides a more substantial feel underneath your fingers.
In summary, both the HMX Perky and HMX SU linear switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Perky excels in offering a softer sound and a more condensed typing experience, while the SU impresses with its deeper sound profile and a solid feel. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback, either switch could serve as an excellent choice, ensuring that you'll enjoy a satisfying typing experience with whichever option you select.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Perky linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a light touch and seek a condensed typing experience, the Perky's softer nylon housing provides a neutral yet satisfying feel, making it ideal for those who type quickly and enjoy a snappier response. The Perky's shorter travel distance enhances agility, making it a great choice for gaming or fast-paced typing situations where speed and precision are paramount. In contrast, if you prefer a deeper, more resonant sound profile along with a more substantial tactile experience, the SU is the way to go. With its full PA12 housing and T5 stem, it delivers a subtly rich auditory feedback that many users find pleasing, along with a firmer feel that can offer better depth for those who enjoy a more anchored typing sensation. Therefore, your decision should align with whether you prioritize a swift, soft typing experience with the Perky or a more robust, sonorous feedback with the SU.
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