Gateron Ink Box Black vs. HMX Jammy
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the HMX Jammy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Black and the HMX Jammy mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches offering a smooth typing experience. The Ink Box Black stands out for its smooth and creamy feel, accompanied by a sound signature resembling a spray paint can being shaken. It is categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Jammy switch is best known for its softer nylon housings and medium weight, providing a muted yet deeply satisfying typing experience. While the choice between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference, such as sound and feel, diving deeper into their specific characteristics will help determine the best switch for individual needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
57g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the HMX Jammy, it is clear that they each offer a unique sound profile due to their different top housing materials. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Black provides a pointed and high-pitched sound that is often described as clacky, while the nylon top housing of the Jammy offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. This difference in sound can greatly impact the typing experience and overall feel of the switches.
On the other hand, when looking at the bottom housing materials of these switches, both the INK blend of the Ink Box Black and the nylon of the Jammy offer similar characteristics. They both provide a pointed and high-pitched sound profile, creating a satisfyingly thin and clacky sound when typing. This similarity in bottom housing materials means that the typing experience may feel more consistent between the two switches, despite their different top housing materials.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Ink Box Black and the HMX Jammy will come down to personal preference in sound profile. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Black offers a unique clacky sound, while the nylon top housing of the Jammy provides a deeper and fuller sound. However, both switches share similar bottom housing materials, resulting in a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on the type of sound profile that the user prefers when typing.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch, it is clear that the Ink Box Black has a slightly heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Jammy's 57 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Ink Box Black at 70 grams is also heavier than the Jammy's 63 grams. This means that the Ink Box Black provides a more substantial typing experience with a firmer push feel compared to the Jammy. Weight is a crucial factor to consider when choosing between the two switches. Those who prefer a lighter switch may opt for the Jammy, as it allows for longer typing periods without fatigue, making it ideal for work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, users who prefer a heavier push feel and a more solid typing experience may lean towards the Ink Box Black for its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Jammy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. While both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to more traditional switches, the Jammy has a slightly longer travel distance than the Ink Box Black. For those looking for a quicker response time, the shorter travel distance of the Ink Box Black may be preferred. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial keypress may find the longer travel distance of the Jammy to be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Box Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Box Black for $7.65.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch offers a unique clacky and high-pitched sound profile reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the HMX Jammy linear switch remains unknown. Both switches' sound profiles will significantly vary depending on the keyboard and keycaps used, so it's essential to consider these factors when making a choice.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is known for its silky and polished typing experience, providing an exceptionally smooth and refined feel with minimal resistance. Unfortunately, the specific feel of the HMX Jammy linear switch is not provided. Nevertheless, it can be assumed that both switches will offer a smooth typing experience based on their linear nature, although the level of smoothness and tactile feedback may differ.
Considering the available information, it is evident that the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch excels in both sound and feel, offering a clacky, high-pitched sound profile and a silky, polished typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Jammy linear switch lacks specific information regarding sound and feel. Ultimately, if you enjoy a linear switch with a unique sound and smooth feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black would be a great choice. If you prefer a muted and deeply satisfying typing experience, the HMX Jammy might also be worth exploring, although more information would be needed for a comprehensive comparison.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a slightly heavier key press, the 70-gram bottom out force of the Ink Box Black may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter key press, the 63-gram bottom out force of the Jammy may be more to your liking. Additionally, if you enjoy a smoother and creamier typing experience with a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, the Ink Box Black is the way to go. However, if you prefer a muted and deeply satisfying typing experience with a softer and glittery housing, then the Jammy would be the better choice for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your preference for key press weight, sound profile, and overall typing feel.
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