HMX Jammy vs. KTT Laurel
An in-depth look at the HMX Jammy and the KTT Laurel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches like the HMX Jammy and the KTT Laurel, it's important to consider the unique features of each switch. The HMX Jammy is a linear switch known for its softer and glittery nylon housings, offering a typing experience that is both muted and deeply satisfying. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel is also a linear switch, but it features a full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design that provides a perfect balance of responsiveness and comfort. While the Jammy offers a medium-weight feel, the Laurel is categorized as medium-light. Additionally, the Laurel boasts a subtly low-pitched sound profile, adding to its appeal. 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
57g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
22m spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Jammy and the KTT Laurel both play a significant role in the sound profile of the switches. The Jammy's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Laurel's POM top housing generates a unique and pleasing sound that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. While both materials aim to enhance the typing experience, the nylon top housing of the Jammy may offer a slightly more rounded sound compared to the deeper sound produced by the POM top housing of the Laurel.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Jammy's nylon bottom housing and the Laurel's POM bottom housing contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The nylon bottom housing of the Jammy, similar to its top housing, generates a deeper and fuller sound when typing. In contrast, the POM bottom housing of the Laurel also adds to the unique and pleasing sound profile that is on the deeper side and more muted. While the bottom housing may not have as significant an impact on the sound as the top housing, it still plays a part in the overall typing experience of the switches.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the HMX Jammy and the KTT Laurel result in varying sound profiles that cater to different preferences. While both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience, the nylon housing of the Jammy offers a slightly softer and more rounded sound, while the POM housing of the Laurel creates a unique and deeper sound. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users may gravitate towards one switch over the other based on the housing materials used in their construction.
Weight
The HMX Jammy linear switch has a higher actuation force of 57 grams and bottom out force of 63 grams, making it a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the KTT Laurel linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as a lighter switch. The difference in force between the two switches showcases that the Jammy provides a firmer typing experience compared to the Laurel. Those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Jammy, while individuals looking for a lighter touch may lean towards the Laurel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with some leaning towards a heavier force for a more solid typing experience, while others may prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions.
Travel distance
The HMX Jammy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the KTT Laurel linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances which are increasingly popular, particularly among gamers seeking faster response times. The difference between their travel distances may not be significant for some users, but those who prefer a slightly deeper key press may find the Jammy to be more suitable. On the other hand, users looking for a quicker and more responsive typing experience may lean towards the Laurel switch. Overall, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, catering to modern preferences for speed and efficiency.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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 Jammy linear switch offers a softer and more muted typing experience, making it ideal for those seeking a quieter option. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel linear switch has a subtly low-pitched sound profile, which can provide a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches offer unique sound qualities that may appeal to different preferences, but ultimately, the sound of each switch will also be influenced by external factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the HMX Jammy linear switch is known for providing a typing experience that is both satisfying and comfortable due to its medium-weight and glittery nylon housing. In contrast, the KTT Laurel linear switch is praised for its snappy and responsive feel, thanks to features such as a full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design. The snappiness of the Laurel switch can make typing feel more lively and dynamic, catering to users who prefer a more tactile response.
Overall, the HMX Jammy and KTT Laurel linear switches each offer their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Jammy excels in providing a softer and more muted sound profile along with a comfortable typing experience, the Laurel stands out for its low-pitched sound and snappy responsiveness. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, either switch could be a great choice for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking to enhance their typing experience. Additionally, both switches offer qualities that can lead to a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that users are likely to achieve similar results in terms of performance and enjoyment.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the HMX Jammy linear switch or the KTT Laurel linear switch, it is important to take into account your personal preferences in terms of bottom out force, sound profile, and overall typing experience. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a typing experience that is muted yet deeply satisfying, the Jammy switch with its softer nylon housings may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a short travel distance, and a snappy typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the Laurel switch with its full POM housing and long pole design could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, the decision between the HMX Jammy and KTT Laurel switches will depend on what features matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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