HMX Perky vs. Bsun Taichi
An in-depth look at the HMX Perky and the Bsun Taichi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Perky and the Bsun Taichi both stand out as popular linear options, each offering distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The HMX Perky is renowned for its softer, glittery nylon housing that delivers a neutral and deeply satisfying typing experience, characterized by a shorter travel distance that results in a more condensed keypress. This can be particularly appealing for typists seeking efficiency and speed. On the other hand, the Bsun Taichi enchants users with its high-pitched bottom-out sound, supported by a long-pole stem and extended springs, combining smoothness and stability for an unparalleled tactile sensation. These features make the Taichi attractive for gamers and typing enthusiasts who appreciate auditory feedback and a consistent feel. Ultimately, both switches provide unique benefits that can influence your choice depending on your typing style and preferences. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
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
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The HMX Perky and the Bsun Taichi exemplify how different housing materials can drastically alter the sound profile and tactile experience of a mechanical switch. The Perky features nylon in its top housing, a material recognized for its softer properties that tend to absorb sound. This characteristic leads to a deeper and fuller auditory experience when typing, creating a sound profile that is dull and rounded. On the contrary, the Taichi utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which is a stiffer plastic that results in a higher-pitched and crisper sound. This distinction in material composition is crucial, as the tactile feedback and auditory response differ significantly; users can expect a sharper, more resonant sound when using the Taichi, particularly enhanced if RGB lighting is employed due to the translucency of polycarbonate.
Interestingly, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the HMX Perky and the Bsun Taichi sport nylon materials. In this respect, they are aligned in their approach to sound absorption and tactile feedback. The nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, consistent across both switches. As such, when users press down on either switch, the characteristics of the nylon will deliver a similar sound and feel, emphasizing a rounded and dampened bottom-out experience. This means that despite the differing materials in the top housing, the bottom housing’s qualities unify the typing experience in the context of sound impact and feedback.
However, the interaction of these materials produces a hybrid sound experience when the switches are fully engaged. In the Perky, the nylon top housing ensures that when releasing a key, users experience a deeper tonality, while the Taichi's polycarbonate top generates a contrasting, sharper sound upon release. Thus, the Perky allows for a blend of deep bass during the bottoming out coupled with a smooth return, while the Taichi offers a more pronounced and vibrant sound profile. Ultimately, while both models may feature the same material in their bottom housing, the differing top housings contribute distinctively to the overall auditory signature and feel of each switch, allowing users to choose based on their preference for sound and performance.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Perky linear switch with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom-out force of 50 grams to the Bsun Taichi linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams but an unspecified bottom-out force, it becomes clear that the Perky switch is heavier overall. The lighter actuation force of the Taichi may appeal to users looking for less resistance during prolonged typing or gaming sessions. However, without a known bottom-out force for the Taichi, we can't determine how it compares in terms of feedback when fully pressed down. In contrast, the Perky switch offers a clear feedback threshold with its defined bottom-out force, allowing those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience to appreciate the extra push feel. Overall, while the Perky is the heavier option, the Taichi could provide a more effortless typing experience even if its bottom-out characteristics remain unknown.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Perky linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, the Perky features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Taichi extends slightly further with a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Perky the shorter option, ideal for those who favor quicker response times typical of gaming, while the Taichi offers a more pronounced depth that may appeal to users who appreciate a more tactile feel beneath their fingers. With just a 0.2 mm difference, the choice between these two switches ultimately depends on personal preference—whether one prefers the snappier actuation of the Perky or the more cushioned travel of the Taichi.
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 Bsun Taichi has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taichi for $2.25.
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 features a typing experience that is more subdued, focusing on a softer, neutral sound profile that is less pronounced than some of its counterparts. While specific details about the sound are not given, the impression of a glittery finish suggests a smooth, subtle acoustic presence that might appeal to users looking for a more understated auditory feedback. In contrast, the Bsun Taichi linear switch is renowned for its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound. This distinct audio characteristic, attributed to its long-pole stem and extended springs, provides a more resonant and lively experience. As always, the overall sound can also be influenced by the mechanical keyboard's construction and keycap materials, which means that both switches could offer varying auditory experiences depending on the overall setup.
When it comes to feel, the Perky switch is characterized by a deeply satisfying sensation during typing, complemented by its shorter travel distance. This design is ideal for fast-paced typing, delivering a condensed yet fulfilling tactile encounter. Meanwhile, the Taichi switch emphasizes smoothness and stability, due to its walled stems, which enhances the overall typing fluidity. Although both switches are linear and prioritize a smooth keystroke, the Perky’s condensed feel might offer a slightly different typing experience than the Taichi, which aims to combine smoothness with the thrill of a longer stem.
In summary, while both the HMX Perky and Bsun Taichi linear switches cater to users seeking smooth, linear experiences, their sound and feel characteristics can cater to different preferences. The Perky offers a softer, potentially quieter sound and a satisfying condensed travel, making it an excellent option for those who prefer a more understated typing experience. On the other hand, the Taichi switch provides a distinct, high-pitched sound along with a smooth typing feel, perfect for users looking for an energetic and lively response. Depending on personal preference and typing style, either switch can provide an enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when considering HMX Perky linear switches versus Bsun Taichi linear switches, it's important to align your preferences and typing habits with the unique characteristics of each switch. If you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom-out force of just 50 grams, the Perky could be your ideal choice, offering a satisfying and neutral typing experience through its soft nylon housing and shorter travel distance. This could be particularly beneficial for those who engage in a lot of typing or gaming, as it may help reduce finger fatigue and enhance speed. On the other hand, if you are drawn to a more auditory experience, the high-pitched sound profile of the Taichi switches enhances each keystroke, making them a great option if you enjoy an engaging and pleasant sound while typing. The Taichi's long-pole stem and extended springs also provide exceptional smoothness and stability, appealing to users who prioritize a fluid typing experience. Therefore, your choice between these two switches should ultimately reflect whether you value ease of keystrokes and a condensed typing feel with the Perky, or whether you prefer the auditory feedback and unparalleled smoothness offered by the Taichi.
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