HMX Perky vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the HMX Perky and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the differences between the HMX Perky and the Jwick Taro stand out distinctly, offering users various experiences tailored to specific preferences. The HMX Perky, known for its softer and glittery nylon housing, delivers a neutral and deeply satisfying typing experience with a shorter travel distance that encourages rapid keystrokes and a more condensed action. This makes it an ideal choice for users who prefer a smooth, uninterrupted typing flow and a less tactile feel. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro switches boast a cozy aesthetic and provide a tactile experience characterized by their snappy feedback and crisp sounds. This tactile sensation, combined with an acute auditory response, makes the Taro a compelling option for typists who enjoy a more engaging interaction with their keyboard as they type. While the Perky offers a seamless and minimalistic experience, the Taro invites a more pronounced connection with each keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Perky and the Jwick Taro, a notable distinction arises from the choice of materials for their top housings. The Perky utilizes nylon for its top housing, which is celebrated for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer plastic nature. This soft material absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Taro opts for polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic that imparts a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate not only enhances the resonance of the switch but also complements RGB lighting applications, highlighting its aesthetic appeal.
Examining the bottom housings reveals a shared similarity between the two switches, as both the Perky and Taro feature nylon in their bottom housings. This commonality ensures that both switches maintain a deeper and fuller sound profile when bottoming out. The softer nylon material in the bottom housing significantly impacts the tactile feel and sound produced during key presses. Therefore, while the top housings of the switches produce differing sound characteristics, the nylon material in the bottom housing serves to anchor and balance their overall sound profiles, providing a cohesive typing experience.
Finally, the differences between the top materials of the Perky and Taro lead to varied auditory outcomes during use. As stated, the nylon top of the Perky emphasizes a deeper sound upon release, while the polycarbonate top of the Taro offers a clearer, sharper sound profile. However, due to the same nylon material present in both bottom housings, users can expect a consistent and deep bottom-out experience regardless of the switch. Ultimately, while the sound produced upon key release may differ according to the top housing material, the nylon bottom housing unifies the experience by imparting a smooth and satisfying feel during key presses across both switches.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Perky linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, the actuation and bottom out forces reveal distinct characteristics suited for different user preferences. The Perky switch features a light actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for users who favor a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Taro switch has an unspecified actuation force but a noticeably heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This heavier feel may appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience. Overall, while the Perky switch is lighter and better suited for prolonged use, the Taro switch offers a firmer response that some users may prefer, especially when looking for more tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Perky linear switch is 3.4 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that the Perky provides a shorter travel distance by 0.3 mm compared to the Taro. For gamers and those who favor faster response times, the Perky might be a more appealing choice due to its shorter travel. Conversely, the Taro's longer travel distance may offer a more satisfying tactile feedback for users who appreciate a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference—whether one favors responsiveness or a more substantial feel when typing.
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 Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 sound profile of the HMX Perky linear switch delivers a unique auditory experience that is notably less pronounced compared to tactile switches. While exact details about the Perky's sound are missing, linear switches like the Perky are generally quieter and provide a smoother sound during actuation, often resulting in a less distracting typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch is known for its acute and crisp clacks, which can be quite satisfying. This neutral sound strikes a balance between being audible enough to provide feedback without being overwhelming, making it versatile for different environments, whether at home or in an office.
When it comes to feel, the Perky switch offers a typing experience that is exceptionally smooth, thanks to its linear design that provides a consistent keystroke without any tactile bump. This results in a condensed typing experience due to the shorter travel distance, making the Perky an excellent choice for those who prioritize speed and fluidity in their typing. Conversely, the Taro tactile switch features a medium level of tactility, described as snappy, which provides a noticeable physical feedback on actuation. This tactile nature is further complemented by its buttery smoothness, allowing for a stress-free and uniform typing experience, albeit with a more distinct two-stage feel that adds to the engagement of typing.
In conclusion, while the HMX Perky and Jwick Taro switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel, they both deliver satisfying typing experiences tailored to their respective designs. The Perky’s smoother, quieter operation contrasts with the Taro’s engaging tactility and crisp acoustic feedback, offering unique but complementary sensations. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on whether you favor a linear, whisper-quiet performance or an interactive, tactile feedback combined with an appealing sound profile.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Perky linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you favor a lighter touch and enjoy a condensed typing experience, the Perky switch, with its 50 grams of bottom-out force and shorter travel distance, will likely feel more responsive and satisfying, especially for fast typists or gamers who require swift keystrokes. The neutral sound profile further enhances its versatility, making it suitable for both home and office use without being too distracting. On the other hand, if you appreciate a tactile feedback and a more pronounced typing sensation, the Taro switch is an excellent choice. With a heavier force requirement of 67 grams, you’ll experience a snappier responsiveness, coupled with a buttery feel that makes for a comfortable typing experience. The acute and crisp clacks add a certain auditory charm, making it enjoyable for those who take pleasure in the sounds of typing. Ultimately, consider the balance between sound, feel, and force when making your decision, as both switches excel in their respective areas and can greatly enhance your overall typing experience.
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