HMX Perky vs. HMX Twilight

Overview

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Perky and the HMX Twilight both offer unique experiences despite being linear switches. The Perky is celebrated for its softer, glittery nylon housings, which provide a neutral yet deeply satisfying typing experience with a notably shorter travel distance. This makes it an excellent choice for users who prefer a more condensed response, ideal for fast-paced typing or gaming. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight distinguishes itself with an extended travel distance of 3.85mm, producing a slightly quieter sound while still delivering the signature clacky characteristics that HMX switches are known for. This switch is particularly appealing for those who appreciate a bit more travel in their keystrokes, which can enhance tactile feedback while typing. Both switches come with their distinct advantages, catering to different preferences in typing feel and sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Perky Linear

HMX Twilight Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX Perky and HMX Twilight feature a housing construction that utilizes nylon for both their top and bottom components. This choice of material significantly influences the acoustic properties of each switch, yielding a distinct sound profile that typists often seek. As described for both models, nylon is recognized for its softer texture compared to harder plastics, which enables it to absorb sound rather than reflect it. Consequently, both the Perky and Twilight offer a sound experience characterized by a deeper and fuller tone, resulting in a typing experience that is both pleasant and less jarring compared to switches made from harder materials.

While the housing materials of both the HMX Perky and HMX Twilight are identical, the overall typing experience can have subtle differences based on factors such as the internal components of each switch, including the type of spring and stem used. Despite having the same nylon housings, other variables like keycap design and switch actuation force can influence the acoustic and tactile feedback experienced by the user. Yet, when focusing solely on the impact of the nylon housing, both switches provide a similar sound experience that absorbs noise effectively, contributing to a rounder and more subdued auditory feedback as the typist engages with the keyboard.

One notable aspect to consider is how the separation of sound qualities between the top and bottom housings might affect the user experience. Since both the Perky and Twilight utilize nylon for both ends, the notable impact of sounds perceived will predominantly derive from the same material characteristics. Thus, when pressing a key, the soft nature of nylon will provide a more muted bottom-out sound and feel, while releasing a key will also produce a softer acoustic signature. This uniformity in housing material ensures that users can reasonably expect similar acoustic performance and feel, allowing for preference-driven choices based on aesthetic or ergonomic attributes rather than purely auditory outcomes.

Weight

The HMX Perky linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch both exhibit similar actuation and bottom out forces, contributing to a comparable typing experience. The Perky has an actuation force of 43 grams, while the Twilight is slightly lighter with an actuation force of 42 grams. Both switches share an identical bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating they provide the same level of resistance when fully pressed down. For users who prefer a lighter feel to their keyboard, the Twilight may be the more appealing option due to its slightly lower actuation force. However, both switches are categorized as light, making them suitable for prolonged typing sessions or gaming, where ease and comfort are prioritized. Ultimately, the marginal difference in actuation force is negligible for most users, as they will experience similarly satisfying feedback from either switch.

Travel distance

The HMX Perky linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the HMX Twilight linear switch offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.85 mm. This difference means that the Perky is the shorter option, providing a more responsive feel ideal for gaming and quick keystrokes. In contrast, the Twilight, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial key press that allows for a more deliberate typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference: if you favor quick response times, the Perky would be the better choice, whereas if you prefer a deeper key press, the Twilight would suit your needs more effectively.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Perky linear switch is known for providing a more muted acoustic profile, aligning with its shorter travel distance that creates a less resonant typing experience. This results in a more subdued sound that some may find pleasant and non-disruptive in shared environments. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight switch, with its extended 3.85mm travel distance, offers a somewhat quieter sound while still preserving the clacky characteristics typical of HMX switches. This suggests that while the Twilight maintains a level of acoustic feedback, it balances that with a reduced volume, making it suitable for those who appreciate a bit of noise without overwhelming their surroundings.

When it comes to feel, the HMX Perky offers a typing experience that is described as neutral and deeply satisfying. The softer, glittery nylon housings contribute to a smooth keystroke, allowing for a quick and agile typing experience thanks to its shorter travel distance. Conversely, the HMX Twilight, with its extended travel, likely provides a more substantial feel with a greater emphasis on depth and resistance as you press down. This could translate to a more deliberate typing experience, appealing to those who enjoy a more tactile or engaging feedback with each keystroke.

Overall, both the HMX Perky and HMX Twilight linear switches deliver distinct advantages that cater to varying typing preferences. The Perky is ideal for those seeking a quicker, more subdued experience, while the Twilight appeals to users who prefer a deeper, more resonant feel that complements its clacky sound. While you can expect similar linear characteristics from both switches, the differences in travel distance and acoustic properties will resonate with different users, helping them choose the switch that best suits their typing style.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Perky linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, consider your personal preferences for typing feel and sound. The Perky, with its light bottom-out force and shorter travel distance, is an excellent choice if you desire a condensed typing experience that feels neutral yet satisfying. Its softer nylon housing contributes to a pleasant tactile experience, making it ideal for those who prioritize speed and comfort, particularly for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, if you appreciate a subtle clacky sound and prefer a longer travel distance for deeper sensations during each keypress, the HMX Twilight switch is more suited for you. Its extended travel not only delivers a unique auditory feedback but also allows for more pronounced key actuation, providing an immersive typing experience. Ultimately, if you want a more responsive and swift typing experience without much auditory drama, opt for the Perky. Conversely, if you're looking for a more engaging and resonant feedback with each keystroke, the Twilight will serve you well. Consider your typing style and needs to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Perky Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

HMX Twilight Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more