HMX Jammy vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX Jammy and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the HMX Jammy and the Cherry MX Speed Silver mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct features that set them apart. 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 Cherry MX Speed Silver is also a linear switch but stands out for its rapid response, with low spring resistance and instant triggering, making it ideal for gamers where speed is key. While the Jammy provides a more tactile typing experience, the Speed Silver excels in rapid keystrokes for gaming. 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
30g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Jammy and the Cherry MX Speed Silver, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This means that both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel. Nylon is known for its softer plastic composition, which results in a deeper and fuller sound when typing on the switches. The absorption of sound by nylon also contributes to a duller and rounder sound profile, creating a unique auditory experience for users of both switches.
While the housing materials for the HMX Jammy and the Cherry MX Speed Silver are the same, the impact of these materials on the switches may differ. The qualities of the housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch, influencing the sound and feel in different ways. The bottom housing of a switch typically has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This distinction showcases how the housing materials can play a significant role in the overall typing experience and sound profile of mechanical switches.
Overall, the choice of nylon for the housing materials of both the HMX Jammy and the Cherry MX Speed Silver highlights the importance of material selection in creating a unique typing experience for users. The softer nature of nylon plastic allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile, enhancing the auditory feedback for typists. Whether using the HMX Jammy or the Cherry MX Speed Silver, users can expect a similar typing experience that is characterized by a rounder and duller sound, thanks to the sound-absorbing properties of nylon. This demonstrates how material selection in switch housing can have a significant impact on the overall performance and user satisfaction of mechanical switches.
Weight
The HMX Jammy linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 57 grams compared to the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch's actuation force of 30 grams, making the Jammy switch the heavier of the two. When it comes to bottom out force, the Jammy requires 63 grams while the MX Speed Silver's bottom out force is unknown. The actuation force of the MX Speed Silver is significantly lighter than that of the Jammy, making it a preferred choice for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. The Jammy, on the other hand, provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation force. Both switches offer a medium level of actuation and bottom out force, providing a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 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 favored by gamers for faster response times. Those who prefer a more abrupt and responsive feel when typing may lean towards the Cherry MX Speed Silver, while individuals who appreciate a slightly deeper keystroke may prefer the HMX Jammy. Ultimately, the difference of 0.3 mm between the two switches may not be significant to most users, as they will likely provide similar results in terms of typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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 quiet and muted typing experience, thanks to its softer nylon housings. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying audible feedback when pressed. Ultimately, the sound produced by both switches will vary depending on the keyboard setup and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the HMX Jammy linear switch is characterized by a medium-weight typing experience that is deeply satisfying to users. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is noted for its textured feel, introducing noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may prefer this added texture for enhanced tactile feedback, while others may favor a smoother typing experience without any noticeable resistance.
In conclusion, the HMX Jammy and Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Jammy provides a quieter and softer typing experience, while the MX Speed Silver delivers a more tactile and textured feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference, with both switches offering unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences.
Conclusion
Therefore, when deciding between the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, consider your priorities. If you value a more muted and deeply satisfying typing experience with a medium bottom out force, then the Jammy switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize maximum speed and instant triggering for gaming purposes, with a full-height design and low spring resistance, the MX Speed Silver switch would be the better option. Remember to also take into account factors such as sound and feel, as the switches offer different characteristics in these aspects as well. Ultimately, the decision should align with your specific preferences and needs for your mechanical keyboard.
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