HMX Jammy vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the HMX Jammy and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Jammy and the Dareu Master mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, there are some notable differences to consider. The Jammy is best known for its softer nylon housings with a glittery touch, offering a muted yet satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Master switch from Dareu is characterized by its all-POM linear design, providing users with a medium weight switch that produces a classic clacky sound and exceptionally smooth operation. Both switches have their unique features and benefits, making them suitable for 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
57g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Jammy and the Dareu Master both offer unique sound profiles that enhance the typing experience for users. The Jammy's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Master's POM top housing creates a pleasing and unique sound that leans towards the deeper side and is relatively more muted. While both materials offer a rich sound experience, the Jammy's nylon top housing may provide a slightly different feel and sound compared to the Master's POM top housing.
Similarly, the bottom housing materials of the Jammy and the Master contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Jammy's nylon bottom housing, like its top housing, provides a deeper and fuller sound profile with a duller and rounder sound due to its softer plastic absorbing more sound. On the other hand, the Master's POM bottom housing offers a unique and pleasing sound that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. Despite the differences in material, both bottom housings contribute to the overall typing experience, impacting the sound and feel of bottoming out a key.
In switches where the top and bottom housings are different, the qualities of each housing material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when a key is released. This split of housing materials in the switches of the HMX Jammy and the Dareu Master provides users with a dynamic typing experience that combines the unique qualities of both materials for an enhanced sound profile. Ultimately, both switches offer a premium typing experience with their distinct housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, it is evident that the Jammy is the heavier of the two with an actuation force of 57 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams. In contrast, the Master is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams, although the bottom out force is unknown. Both switches provide a tactile typing experience, with the Jammy offering a slightly firmer push due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces. However, those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Master to be more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, it is evident that the Jammy has a longer travel distance at 3.7 mm compared to the Master's 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for faster response times. The shorter travel distance of the Master may appeal to those seeking a more responsive feel, while the slightly longer travel distance of the Jammy could provide a more substantial and deliberate keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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 muted and deeply satisfying typing experience thanks to its softer nylon housings. On the other hand, the Dareu Master linear switch provides a classic clacky sound signature that is crisp, bright, and percussive. The sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's build and the keycaps used.
As for feel, the HMX Jammy switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, but with its medium-weight construction and glittery nylon housings, it offers a unique typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Master switch is described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that most users will find approachable. Additionally, the Master switch is polished, offering a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, both the HMX Jammy and Dareu Master linear switches offer their own distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Jammy switch provides a muted and deeply satisfying typing experience, the Master switch offers a classic clacky sound with exceptional smoothness. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and factors such as desired sound profile and typing feel. Whichever switch you choose, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with either the HMX Jammy or Dareu Master linear switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a softer and deeply satisfying typing feel with a medium bottom out force, then the Jammy switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a classic clacky sound signature with exceptional smoothness in operation and a medium weight switch, then the Master switch from Dareu would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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