HMX Cheese vs. HMX Jammy
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the HMX Jammy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the HMX Cheese and the HMX Jammy. The HMX Cheese switch is well-loved for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, providing a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. These ultra-light switches stand out as being lighter than 90% of all switches, offering a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Jammy switch stands out for its softer nylon housings and glittery appearance. These medium-weight switches provide a typing experience that is both muted and deeply satisfying. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
57g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
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 single-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the HMX Jammy are both made of nylon, a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deep and full sound profile. Due to its relatively softer nature, nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a rounder and duller sound when typing on switches made with this material. This consistency in housing material between the Cheese and the Jammy ensures that users can expect a similar sound and typing experience from both switches.
While both the Cheese and the Jammy feature nylon top and bottom housings, the differentiation in qualities brought by each housing material can impact the overall typing experience. The bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is fully pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a nuanced typing experience that considers the impact of each component on the sound profile and feel of the switch.
In comparing the Cheese and the Jammy, their shared use of nylon housing material results in a consistent sound profile characterized by deep and full tones. However, any potential differences in the sound and feel of the switches may lie in the way the top and bottom housing materials interact with each key press. Whether one prefers the slightly different impact of the top or bottom housing on the typing experience, both the Cheese and the Jammy offer a high-quality switch option with a familiar and reliable sound profile.
Weight
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a lighter actuation and bottom out force compared to the HMX Jammy linear switch. The Cheese requires 43 grams of force to actuate and 46 grams to bottom out, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Jammy switch has a higher actuation force of 57 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, providing a medium typing feel. Those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may find the Jammy switch more suitable. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of the two switches cater to different preferences, with the Cheese being lighter and the Jammy being heavier.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Cheese linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the HMX Jammy linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The Cheese switch may appeal to those seeking a slightly quicker key press due to its shorter travel distance, while the Jammy switch could be preferred by those who enjoy a bit more depth in their key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of the feel and responsiveness desired during typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $4.29.
The HMX Jammy comes in at $3.49 per 10 switches.
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 Cheese linear switch is well-known for its satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, making typing on these switches a truly enjoyable auditory experience. On the other hand, the HMX Jammy linear switch is described as offering a more muted sound profile due to its softer nylon housings, which can still provide a deeply satisfying typing experience. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch is not solely determined by the switch itself, but also by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to feel, the HMX Cheese linear switch is revered for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, making each keystroke effortless and comfortable. In contrast, the HMX Jammy linear switch offers a different tactile experience with its medium-weight feel, providing a satisfying feedback that is both tactile and responsive. Both switches offer their own unique feel, catering to different preferences of typists.
Considering all available information, it is evident that the HMX Cheese linear switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch each have their own distinct qualities when it comes to sound and feel. While the Cheese switch is praised for its lightness and crisp sound, as well as its smooth typing experience, the Jammy switch stands out for its muted sound and medium-weight feel, offering a different yet equally satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch, you should choose the Cheese if you prefer an ultra-light typing experience with a satisfying clacky sound signature. The Cheese's bottom out force of 46 grams makes it ideal for those who enjoy a lighter touch and a smoother feel. On the other hand, you should opt for the Jammy if you prefer a medium-weight typing experience with a more muted sound profile. The Jammy's bottom out force of 63 grams offers a deeper satisfaction while still maintaining a smooth typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for typing feel and sound.
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