HMX Perky vs. TTC Venus

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Perky and the TTC Venus both present intriguing options, especially for those who appreciate linear switches. The HMX Perky offers a typing experience characterized by its softer, glittery nylon housings and a shorter travel distance, making it ideal for users seeking a neutral yet deeply satisfying feel. The Perky is playfully described with terms like 'Clacky', 'Polished', and 'Silky', hinting at a more condensed typing experience that can energize typing sessions for enthusiasts or professionals alike. In contrast, the TTC Venus adopts a unique internal design that prioritizes a smooth, frictionless glide, enhanced by its light actuation for rapid, effortless typing. Its "Q-texture" provides a novel sensory experience, likened to indulging in chewy mochi, while its muted sound profile makes it perfect for shared workspaces. With categories suggesting a 'Buttery', 'Gummy', and 'Subdued' experience, the Venus caters to those who favor a softer, more understated typing environment. 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

TTC Venus Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$7.99

$5.09 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Perky and the TTC Venus, it is evident that they each employ distinct materials that yield different acoustic properties. The Perky features nylon for both its top and bottom housings, allowing for a consistent sound profile. The softness of nylon contributes to a deeper, fuller sound, absorbing vibrations and promoting a rounder tonal character. This material choice ensures that the typing experience is uniform, with both the actuation and bottom-out sounds leaning towards a muted and rich auditory profile. Users can expect a harmonious sound experience, as the characteristics of nylon create a cohesive result that emphasizes warmth and depth.

In contrast, the TTC Venus incorporates a POM top housing and a polycarbonate bottom housing, introducing a blend of contrasting qualities. The POM material in the top housing delivers a unique, deeper sound that remains relatively muted, akin to the nylon of the Perky but with its own distinct texture. However, the polycarbonate bottom housing brings sharpness and clarity to the sound profile, creating a crisper auditory experience upon bottoming out. The use of polycarbonate introduces a more resonant quality that is likely to be perceived during the actuation phase, reflecting a stark departure from the dampened character of the Perky’s nylon. As a result, the TTC Venus delivers a duality of sound that combines both deeper tones and sharper clarity.

Ultimately, while the HMX Perky and TTC Venus approach housing materials differently, they each create satisfying auditory experiences tailored to various preferences. The Perky's use of nylon for both components creates a uniform sound that favors warmth and fullness. In contrast, the Venus’s mixed materials contribute to a diverse sound profile that juxtaposes muted, deep tones with sharper, more resonant qualities. Users seeking a durable, rich sound might prefer the Perky’s all-nylon design, while those looking for contrast and clarity may gravitate towards the Venus's POM and polycarbonate combination. Regardless of choice, both keyboards promise enjoyable auditory results, though through distinctly different paths.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Perky linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, we see some notable differences. The Perky has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Venus features a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, positioning it in the medium-light range. This makes the Venus a better fit for those who appreciate a more substantial feel during typing. Although both switches offer a relatively low force requirement, the Perky is the lighter option, appealing to those who prioritize comfort during prolonged use.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Perky linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, the differences are quite pronounced. The Perky has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Venus measures a bit longer at 3.8 mm. This makes the Perky the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers and those seeking faster response times due to its reduced travel. Conversely, the Venus, with its greater travel distance, may cater more to users who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing keys, as it provides a more pronounced depth. Thus, the choice between these switches ultimately depends on an individual's preference for responsiveness versus a more traditional tactile experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX Perky and TTC Venus switches present quite contrasting profiles. The Perky switch is characterized by its clacky sound, delivering a sharp and snappy auditory response that is crisp and bright, making each keystroke resonant and percussive. This can be particularly appealing for typists who enjoy an audible confirmation of their key presses. In contrast, the TTC Venus offers a muted sound signature, providing a quieter typing experience that is subdued and less intrusive. The Venus also features a neutral sound profile that is suitable for various environments, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more tranquil atmosphere while typing.

In terms of feel, both switches bring unique but equally satisfying experiences to the table. The HMX Perky switch is described as polished and silky, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction, enhancing the overall smoothness of each keystroke. This results in a deeply satisfying interaction when typing. On the other hand, the TTC Venus is notable for its buttery and frictionless feel, delivering a seamless and effortless typing experience. The unique "Q-texture" offers a springy sensation akin to biting into chewy mochi, while its gummy characteristic adds a playful element to the bottoming-out experience, giving a trampoline-like quality that many typists might find uniquely appealing.

Both the HMX Perky and TTC Venus linear switches boast their distinct characteristics, appealing to different user preferences. The Perky excels in sound and sophistication with its clacky profile and smooth, polished feel, ideal for those who enjoy a more engaging auditory experience. Meanwhile, the Venus caters to those seeking a quieter yet highly enjoyable typing experience, enhanced by its inventive internal design that ensures a smooth, frictionless glide. Users can expect to find satisfaction in either option, depending on whether they prioritize sound or a unique tactile sensation in their keyboard experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, choosing between the HMX Perky linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you prefer a lighter typing experience with a clacky sound profile, the HMX Perky may be your go-to option. Its 50g bottom-out force and softer nylon housing provide a satisfying and polished typing feel that is ideal for fast typists who appreciate a more dynamic auditory feedback as they type. The Perky is particularly well-suited for those who want a condensed typing experience with a shorter travel distance and enjoy a more lively sound. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smoother, quieter experience with a springy feel, the TTC Venus might be better for you. With a slightly higher bottom-out force of 52g, the Venus combines a muted sound signature with a frictionless glide, giving you an effortless typing experience that minimizes noise while still retaining enough tactile feedback. This is perfect for both casual use and professional settings where a quieter environment is preferred. In conclusion, consider what aspects matter most to you—whether it's sound, typing feel, or actuation force—so you can make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Perky Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

TTC Venus Linear

$7.99

$5.09 per 10

Learn more