HMX Perky vs. HMX Sunset Gleam
An in-depth look at the HMX Perky and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Perky and the HMX Sunset Gleam stand out as compelling options in the linear switch category, each with its own unique characteristics suited to different preferences. The HMX Perky, renowned for its glittery nylon housings, offers a condensed typing experience with shorter travel distances, making each keystroke feel neutral yet deeply satisfying. Its clacky and polished nature lends itself to a typing experience that's refreshingly smooth for those who enjoy a subtle auditory feedback. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam, affectionately dubbed the Duck Duck switch, combines a carefully curated blend of materials allowing for a soft top-out and a delightful resonant clack. With its bouncy response and exceptional factory lube application, the Sunset Gleam provides a typing experience that’s both fluid and exceptionally responsive. As you weigh your options, consider whether you prefer the silky touch and shorter travel of the Perky or the polished, resonant feel of the Sunset Gleam. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that meets your individual needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Perky and HMX Sunset Gleam demonstrate distinct sound profiles and aesthetic qualities due to their differing top housing materials. The Perky utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials, resulting in a muted and rounded auditory experience. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam features a polycarbonate top housing, which enhances the sound's sharpness and clarity. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a higher-pitched, resonant sound profile that is often considered more precise. Aesthetically, this translucency gives the Sunset Gleam an advantage in showcasing RGB lighting, while the Perky's nylon housing provides a more subdued appearance.
Interestingly, both switches share nylon as their bottom housing material, fostering a common auditory experience when typing. Regardless of their differences in top housing, both switch configurations produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the nylon's acoustic properties. This shared aspect of the bottom housing ensures that users will have a consistent bottom-out sound and feel when pressing either switch, emphasizing the depth and roundness characteristic of nylon. Therefore, while the upper sounds may differ, the foundational auditory qualities provided by the nylon bottom housing remain constant.
Ultimately, even though the HMX Perky and HMX Sunset Gleam utilize different materials for their top housings, the integration of nylon in both bottom housings allows for a shared softness in sound. This design choice means that while the Perky offers a deeper sound upon key release and the Sunset Gleam presents a more pronounced clarity, the experience of pressing the keys remains similar, fostering a cohesive typing feel. By appreciating these distinctive top housing materials alongside the commonality of the nylon bottom, users can select their preferred switch based on sound profile and visual appeal while still enjoying comparable tactile responses.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Perky linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, both options showcase relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming. The Perky has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Sunset Gleam features a slightly lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This indicates that the Sunset Gleam is the lighter option overall, providing a marginally easier keystroke with less resistance required for both actuation and bottoming out compared to the Perky. While both switches cater to users who enjoy a lighter feel, the Sunset Gleam offers a slightly more effortless typing experience, which might appeal to those who prioritize comfort during extensive use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Perky and HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches, they differ slightly, with the Perky having a travel distance of 3.4 mm and the Sunset Gleam at 3.5 mm. This means that the Perky is the shorter option of the two, making it potentially more appealing for gamers or users who favor quicker response times. On the other hand, the Sunset Gleam, with its longer travel distance, may offer a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more pronounced tactile experience when typing. If you're looking for a swift keypress, the Perky's slightly shorter travel distance may be advantageous, while the Sunset Gleam would be better suited for those who enjoy a more substantial feel. Overall, the difference is minimal, but it reflects the preferences of different users.
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 Sunset Gleam has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sunset Gleam for $2.99.
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
When comparing the sound profiles of the HMX Perky and HMX Sunset Gleam switches, both offer distinct auditory experiences that cater to different preferences. The Perky is characterized by a clacky sound, producing a sharp, crisp, and snappy auditory feedback that can make typing feel dynamic and lively. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam delivers a resonant sound profile that is higher-pitched and immersive, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience. While the Perky's clacky notes may be suitable for those who enjoy a more traditional and pronounced typing sound, the Sunset Gleam's resonant quality could appeal to users looking for a refined sound that seamlessly enhances their typing experience. Note that the final sound experience can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's design and the choice of keycaps.
In terms of feel, both the Perky and Sunset Gleam switches excel in providing a smooth typing experience. The Perky is noted for its polished and silky characteristics, which ensure that users enjoy a refined and sleek typing sensation free from unwanted friction. This smooth travel can significantly enhance the overall typing experience by allowing the fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys. The Sunset Gleam shares the polished and silky attributes, contributing to a smooth key travel as well. However, it also introduces a unique bouncy feel, offering a spring-like, elastic feedback that adds liveliness to each keystroke. This combination may provide an engaging tactile sensation, making typing both fluid and responsive. Thus, while both switches provide excellent smoothness, the Sunset Gleam adds a bit of bounce that may enhance typing enjoyment for some users.
In conclusion, both the HMX Perky and HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches offer an impressive typing experience, tailored to different preferences. The Perky provides a clacky sound that fosters a lively atmosphere, coupled with a polished and silky feel for smooth key travel. Meanwhile, the Sunset Gleam presents a resonant auditory profile alongside a bouncy feel that adds an energetic tactile experience to typing. Users can expect a high level of smoothness in both switches, though the Sunset Gleam offers an additional dynamic that could resonate with those seeking a more playful typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on individual sound preferences and the desired typing feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Perky and HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and the typing experience you're seeking. If you value a light touch with a condensed typing experience, the Perky is an excellent option, offering a crisp and clacky sound that’s both engaging and satisfying. Its polished and silky feel ensures smooth key travel, making it ideal for those who enjoy a neutral, responsive typing sensation without too much resistance. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that not only feels smooth but also provides a lively, bouncy feedback, the Sunset Gleam is your best bet. Its unique resonant sound profile delivers an immersive auditory experience, while the combination of materials creates a delightful subtle clack. If you appreciate the spring-like rebound that can enhance your typing rhythm, then the Sunset Gleam will likely feel more satisfying under your fingers. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct attributes, allowing you to choose the one that best aligns with your typing style and sound preferences.
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