HMX Perky vs. Gazzew U4

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between linear and tactile options can significantly impact your typing experience. The HMX Perky, celebrated for its softer, glittery nylon housings, provides a smooth and neutral typing experience, allowing for a deeply satisfying feel with its shorter travel distance. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer quick and uninterrupted key presses, ideal for both gaming and fast-paced typing. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 offers a distinct tactile experience with its sharp and exhilarating bump, complemented by a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. These switches are designed for users who enjoy feedback with each keystroke without the distracting noise, thanks to their whisper-quiet sound profile. Both switches have unique attributes catering to different preferences, with the Perky delivering a faster, quieter experience and the U4 providing satisfying tactile feedback without the sound. 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

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The HMX Perky and Gazzew U4 switches both utilize nylon as a primary housing material, which is known for its softer texture and sound-absorbing properties. The Perky switch features a nylon top and bottom housing, resulting in a consistent sound profile characterized by a deeper and fuller tonal quality. Its soft plastic nature contributes to a duller and rounder sound when typing, making it appealing for users looking for a quieter and more understated auditory experience. Similarly, the Gazzew U4 relies on its proprietary "boba plastic" blend for both the top and bottom housing, allowing it to achieve a comparable rich and deep sound profile. As a result, both switches are likely to produce similar auditory outcomes, creating a typing experience that minimizes harshness while promoting a smooth, rounded acoustic.

While both the HMX Perky and Gazzew U4 switches effectively utilize softer plastic materials for sound absorption, their key distinction lies in the unique formulation of the Gazzew blend compared to traditional nylon. The Gazzew U4's proprietary mix, sometimes referred to as "boba plastic," may offer varying tactile feedback and responsiveness alongside its sound qualities. This proprietary formulation aims to enhance certain attributes of the typing experience, potentially making it feel distinct despite sharing similar acoustic characteristics with the HMX Perky. In contrast, Perky's reliance on classic nylon could result in a more standardized feel, which some users may prefer for its familiarity.

When considering the implications of using different materials in the top and bottom housings, both switches demonstrate how housing characteristics can influence the overall typing experience. In either case, the nylon material in the Perky provides a well-rounded sound retention, while the Gazzew U4’s boba plastic blend contributes to an equally rich auditory result, albeit with the potential for variations in tactile perception. This means that even with different formulations at play, users can expect a satisfying and cohesive performance from both of these switches. Ultimately, the choice may come down to personal preference for the feel and nuances of sound each material brings to the typing experience, while the overarching acoustic qualities remain strikingly aligned.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Perky linear switch to the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Perky has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option that is ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the U4 features a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams and a more significant bottom out force of 62 grams, categorizing it as a medium-weight switch. This means that users seeking a more pronounced tactile feedback and a heavier push feel may prefer the U4, whereas those looking for a lighter touch for comfort and ease during long usage would opt for the Perky. Overall, the choice boils down to personal preference regarding typing experience, with the Perky being the lighter switch and the U4 providing a heftier feel.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Perky linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, the Perky features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the U4 measures at 3.6 mm. This indicates that the Perky has a shorter travel distance than the U4, making it potentially more responsive for users who favor quicker key presses, such as gamers. However, the Gazzew U4, with its 3.6 mm travel distance, may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial keypress that provides a deeper tactile feedback. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding key response and feel, with the Perky being the more responsive option and the U4 offering a more pronounced depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When evaluating the sound profile of the HMX Perky linear switch, it is characterized by a neutral acoustic experience that is neither overly loud nor particularly quiet, making it an approachable option for various typing environments. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offers a distinctly muted sound, utilizing a low-pitched tone that provides a bass-heavy and mellow auditory experience. The U4’s whisper-quiet nature significantly minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards, appealing to those who prefer a tranquil typing atmosphere. However, the exact sound produced can still vary based on the keyboard's build and the chosen keycaps, so these qualities lend themselves to similar overall experiences despite their inherent differences.

Regarding feel, the HMX Perky promises a universally satisfactory typing experience due to its softer nylon housing, which provides a condensed feel thanks to its shorter travel distance. However, the specifics of the tactile sensation for the Perky are not defined. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is recognized for its sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, producing a significantly heightened feedback intensity that is felt distinctly with each keystroke. Furthermore, the U4 offers an unexpectedly plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation, which adds a layer of comfort during prolonged typing sessions. While the Perky’s feel is less defined, the contrast with the U4 highlights a noticeable variance in tactile feedback and the overall typing experience.

In conclusion, the HMX Perky linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch provide distinct yet compelling typing experiences. The Perky’s neutral sound profile offers a versatile environment for various use cases, while the U4 excels in delivering a muted, low-pitched auditory experience alongside a pronounced tactile feedback. Although the Perky's feel remains less characterized, both switches cater to different preferences, with the U4 standing out for its tactile clarity and plush bottoming-out sensation. For newcomers, understanding these qualitative differences will aid in making an informed decision based on personal typing style and sound preference.

Conclusion

To sum up, choosing between the HMX Perky linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the context in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you favor a light touch and desire a smooth, quick, and responsive typing experience, the Perky's 50 grams of bottom-out force and shorter travel distance make it an excellent choice. Its softer, glittery nylon housing contributes to a satisfying, condensed typing feel, perfect for those who want to type rapidly or frequently. On the other hand, if you appreciate tactile feedback and a bit more resistance, the Gazzew U4, with its 62 grams of bottom-out force, will provide you with that sharp and exhilarating tactile bump that enhances precision without sacrificing comfort. The U4's muted, low-pitched sound profile makes it an ideal option for quieter environments, offering a plush and felt-like bottom-out sensation that's not only enjoyable but also considerate for shared spaces. Ultimately, consider your typing style and setting when making your choice; the Perky caters to speed and fluidity, while the U4 rewards with tactile richness and subtlety in sound.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Perky Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more