HMX Perky vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the HMX Perky and the Jerrzi Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to enhancing your typing experience, the choice between mechanical keyboard switches can significantly impact both performance and comfort. The HMX Perky, characterized by its softer and glittery nylon housings, provides a linear typing experience that is neutral yet deeply satisfying. With a shorter travel distance, it allows for a more condensed typing feel, making it an ideal option for gamers or those who favor fast-paced typing. In contrast, the Jerrzi Violet offers a gentle tactile experience with its smooth actuation and poppy tactility. These switches are accompanied by a neutral sound signature, creating a balanced typing environment that many find enjoyable, especially in a more traditional or office setting. While the Perky leans towards speed and fluidity, the Violet caters to those who appreciate tactile feedback. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Yes
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 Jerrzi Violet, a significant distinction lies in the top housing materials used in each switch. The Perky utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon's softer properties that allow it to absorb more sound waves, resulting in a duller, rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Violet features a polycarbonate top housing, which is recognized for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The rigidity of polycarbonate amplifies the resonant qualities, making it ideal for achieving clear audio, particularly if RGB lighting is involved since its translucent nature enhances the lighting effects. Therefore, while both switches have their own unique sound profiles, the Perky’s nylon top provides a warmer and softer auditory experience, whereas the Violet’s polycarbonate top offers a more pronounced and vibrant sound.
Both switches share a similarity in their bottom housing, which is made of nylon for both the Perky and the Violet. This commonality means that when it comes to the bottom-out sound and the tactile feedback felt when pressing the keys, both switches will produce similar experiences rooted in the characteristics of the nylon material. The soft properties of nylon lead to a deeper and fuller sound profile, regardless of the differences present in the top housing materials. Thus, when typing on either switch, users can expect a consistent sound and feel resulting from the nylon bottom, which effectively absorbs sound, contributing to a muted yet satisfying bottom-out experience.
Ultimately, the combination of different top and bottom housing materials in the HMX Perky and Jerrzi Violet exemplifies how the interplay between these components influences overall performance. While the nylon materials in the bottom housing of both switches provide a uniform experience in terms of sound and tactile feedback, the contrasting top housing materials introduce distinct auditory profiles. The nylon top of the Perky softens the sound while offering a classic experience, whereas the polycarbonate top of the Violet enhances clarity and brightness. Thus, the differences in sound profiles arise from the respective top housing materials; yet, the shared nylon bottom ensures that users will experience a recognizable depth in sound, regardless of their choice.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Perky linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, we see some distinct differences in their actuation forces. The Perky switch features a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience—perfect for long hours at work or extended gaming sessions. In contrast, the Jerrzi Violet switch has a slightly higher actuation force at 45 grams, presenting a firmer tactile feel that some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. However, the bottom out force for the Violet switch remains unknown, which means we can't definitively compare it in that regard. Overall, if you are looking for a lighter switch, the HMX Perky is the better choice, whereas the Jerrzi Violet, with its higher actuation force, might cater to those who enjoy a bit more resistance in their typing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Perky linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, we find that the Perky features a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Violet has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. This difference indicates that the Perky switch may offer quicker response times, which is often favored by gamers who seek a more rapid feedback when pressing keys. On the other hand, the Violet’s longer travel distance could provide a more satisfying tactile experience for those who prefer a deeper press. Therefore, if responsiveness is your priority, the Perky would be the better choice, while the Violet may cater to users who enjoy a more substantial feel with each keystroke.
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 Jerrzi Violet has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet for $2.30.
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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Perky linear switch offers a typing experience that is relatively quiet, thanks to its neutral sound profile. Users can expect a subdued audio feedback while typing, making it an excellent choice for environments where noise may be a concern. In contrast, the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch also boasts a neutral sound signature, characterized by a moderate actuation force and a balanced volume. This makes both switches suitable for various scenarios, whether at home or in a professional setting, as neither will dominate the auditory landscape.
Turning to the feel of each switch, the Perky’s shorter travel distance contributes to a streamlined typing experience, which many find to be smooth and satisfying. This linear action provides continuous resistance without any tactile bumps, allowing for rapid keypresses. On the other hand, the Violet tactile switch offers a gentler tactile experience with a distinctly stepped profile. Users can expect a noticeable but mild tactile feedback during actuation, providing a clear sense of engagement without overwhelming a typist. This contrast in feel caters to different preferences—whether one favors a more fluid experience or seeks the pronounced feedback of a tactile switch.
In conclusion, while both the HMX Perky linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch offer an enjoyable typing experience, they cater to different tastes. The Perky is suited for those who prefer a smooth, quiet action, facilitating rapid keystrokes. Conversely, the Violet appeals to users who appreciate tactile feedback without excessive noise. Ultimately, both switches showcase craftsmanship that can enhance the typing journey, and choosing between them will depend on whether one values linear smoothness or gentle tactile sensations.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Perky linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and the environment in which you’ll be using your keyboard. If you favor a light typing experience with a shorter travel distance that allows for faster typing and a neutral, deeply satisfying feel, the HMX Perky is an excellent choice. Its softer nylon housing enhances the overall experience, making it particularly suited for repetitive tasks or fast-paced gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a more engaging tactile feedback with a balanced sound profile, the Jerrzi Violet switch might be the better option for you. The gentle tactile bump creates a pleasing sensation during typing, and its neutral sound signature makes it adaptable for both home and office settings. Ultimately, the decision hinges on whether you value speed and a smooth stroke (with the Perky) or if you appreciate the tactile response that the Violet provides without being overly loud or obtrusive. Consider these factors to find the switch that best aligns with your typing style and environment.
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