HMX Perky vs. HMX Vintage Citrus
An in-depth look at the HMX Perky and the HMX Vintage Citrus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the HMX Perky and the HMX Vintage Citrus often comes down to your specific typing and gaming preferences. The HMX Perky, with its softer and glittery nylon housings, delivers a uniquely neutral and deeply satisfying typing experience, thanks to its shorter travel distance that promotes a more condensed feel. This switch is perfect for users who prioritize comfort and want a more cushioned experience during long typing sessions. On the other hand, the HMX Vintage Citrus is tailored specifically for gamers, featuring an exceptionally low actuation force of just 1mm, which allows for rapid-fire keyboard inputs that can enhance performance in fast-paced gaming scenarios. Its bright, clacky sound profile and remarkably smooth push feel further elevate the gaming experience, making it ideal for those who enjoy an audible response during intense sessions. While both switches are linear and cater to distinct user needs, the choice ultimately hinges on whether you value a comfortable typing experience or a lightning-fast gaming response. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T2
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
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
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Perky and the HMX Vintage Citrus, one can observe that both switches utilize nylon for both their top and bottom housings. This choice of material greatly influences the typing experience, as nylon is known for its softer properties when compared to harder plastics. In both cases, the nylon constructions contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, making the acoustics of typing on these switches more resonant. Due to the identical housing material, users can expect a similar sound signature and overall acoustic performance whether they choose the Perky or the Vintage Citrus.
Moreover, the key characteristics of nylon enhance the typing experience in both switches, offering a more subdued and rounded sound due to its ability to absorb sound waves. As users type, they will experience a consistent tactile feedback that is attributed to the soft nature of nylon. Since both the HMX Perky and HMX Vintage Citrus share this consistent nylon composition in their housings, the interaction of the housing with the keystrokes will never vary, providing a harmonious transition between both switches when considering their auditory and tactile responses upon press and release.
Nevertheless, while the materials of the housing for both switches are the same, the overall user experience may still vary due to design elements or other factors such as keycap profiles or switch configurations. If the top and bottom housings differ in design or structure, users might notice subtle differences in the bottoming-out sound or the feel when pressing the keys. However, since both switches deploy nylon, the foundational acoustic and tactile qualities will remain aligned, leading to a notably similar typing environment between the HMX Perky and the HMX Vintage Citrus.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Perky linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, there are noticeable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Perky switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize a lighter feel, enabling extended typing sessions or gaming without fatigue. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus switch features a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, positioning it as a medium-light option. This difference in force can influence the typing experience; the Perky's lighter touch may appeal to those seeking ease and comfort, while the Vintage Citrus offers a more substantial feel for users who enjoy a firmer response. Overall, the Perky switch is the lighter option, whereas the Vintage Citrus provides a heavier but still manageable feel.
Travel distance
The HMX Perky linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch differ in their travel distances, with the Perky measuring 3.4 mm and the Vintage Citrus at 3.0 mm. This makes the Vintage Citrus the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers or those seeking quick response times. On the other hand, the Perky offers a more substantial depth due to its longer travel distance, which could be preferable for users who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback while typing. Ultimately, if responsiveness is your priority, the Vintage Citrus may be the better choice, while those who appreciate a more generous travel height might find the Perky to be more satisfying.
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 HMX Vintage Citrus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Vintage Citrus for $2.79.
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 offers a sound that's quite neutral and understated, aligning with its goal of providing a satisfying typing experience without unnecessary distraction. In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch presents a bright, clacky sound profile, which is ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback while gaming or typing. Both sound profiles are influenced by other components of the keyboard, including the choice of the board and keycaps, but users can expect a subtle experience from the Perky and a more energetic one from the Vintage Citrus.
When it comes to feel, the Perky switch features a softer push with its nylon housing, contributing to a smooth and deeply satisfying typing experience. This switch is designed for a condensed typing feel due to a shorter travel distance, which can enhance efficiency. On the other hand, the Vintage Citrus switch is specifically tailored for rapid-fire actions, boasting an exceptionally low actuation force of just 1mm, which provides a remarkably smooth and quick response suitable for high-paced gaming scenarios. Thus, while the Perky prioritizes softness and satisfaction in touch, the Vintage Citrus emphasizes speed and ease of actuation, catering to different typing preferences.
In summary, the HMX Perky linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch cater to distinct needs in the mechanical keyboard space. The Perky offers a neutral sound and a satisfying feel, perfect for those who seek a more relaxed yet effective typing experience. Alternatively, the Vintage Citrus combines a clacky sound with a swift and smooth actuation, aiming specifically at gamers who thrive on fast-paced inputs. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches will deliver unique yet satisfying experiences, making them excellent choices within their respective niches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Perky linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your specific typing needs and preferences. If you're seeking a switch that offers a light and satisfying typing experience, the Perky might be the better choice for you. With its softer nylon housings and shorter travel distance, it provides a neutral feel that is perfect for typing in long sessions. On the other hand, if your primary focus is on gaming performance, the Vintage Citrus switch is designed with gamers in mind. Its low actuation force and quick response time make it ideal for rapid inputs, while its clacky sound profile adds an exciting auditory feedback during gameplay. In short, opt for the Perky if you want a relaxed, enjoyable typing experience, and choose the Vintage Citrus if you prioritize speed and responsiveness for gaming.
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