HMX Jammy vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the HMX Jammy and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to linear mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Jammy and the Cherry Nixie offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The HMX Jammy is renowned for its softer nylon housing and medium-weight feel, providing a typing experience that is both muted and deeply satisfying. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie is a classic switch in the keyboard community, known for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, thanks to the updated materials and springs from Cherry's MX2A update. While the Jammy excels in providing a softer and smoother typing experience, the Nixie stands out for its textured feel and low-pitched sound. 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
63.5g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Jammy and the Cherry Nixie switches are both made of nylon, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This characteristic is consistent across both the top and bottom housing of these switches, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
While both the Jammy and Nixie switches share the same nylon housing material, the impact of the housing on the typing experience may differ slightly. The bottom housing of the switches will have more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will affect the sound when releasing a key. This distinction highlights how the placement of the housing material can contribute to different aspects of the typing experience, even when using the same material.
Overall, the similarities in housing materials between the HMX Jammy and the Cherry Nixie switches result in comparable typing experiences. The use of nylon for both the top and bottom housing creates a consistent sound profile that is deep and full. While the impact of the housing may vary slightly based on its placement within the switch, the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches will be similar due to their shared housing material.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it is clear that the Jammy is the lighter of the two with an actuation force of 57 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, while the Nixie is the heavier option with an actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams. The Jammy provides a medium resistance, making it suitable for those who prefer a balance between light and heavy switches. On the other hand, the Nixie offers a heavier push feel, which is ideal for users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Both switches are effective in their own right, with the Jammy catering to those who prefer lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions, and the Nixie providing a more forceful option for a satisfying keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The HMX Jammy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Cherry Nixie linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Nixie has a slightly longer travel distance than the Jammy. The difference of 0.3 mm may not seem significant, but it can actually impact the typing experience. The Jammy's shorter travel distance may provide a quicker response time, making it ideal for fast-paced activities like gaming. On the other hand, the Nixie's longer travel distance may offer a more satisfying and deliberate key press for those who prefer a more substantial feel. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular in modern keyboards. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for typing feel and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.15.
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 is known for producing a muted and deeply satisfying typing experience, likely due to its softer nylon housings. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is described as having a thocky and low-pitched sound, making it produce a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. Both switches offer different auditory experiences, with the Jammy providing a quieter typing experience compared to the Nixie's more pronounced sound profile.
Moving on to feel, the HMX Jammy linear switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, making it challenging to directly compare. However, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is known for its textured feel, which can refer to noticeable friction when pressed. This texture can offer a unique typing experience, adding a tactile element to each keystroke that some users may appreciate for its feedback.
In conclusion, the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Jammy provides a quieter and potentially smoother typing experience, while the Nixie delivers a more pronounced and textured feel with its thocky sound profile. Depending on personal preferences and typing habits, users may find one switch more preferable over the other. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles, ensuring a customizable and enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience for newcomers and enthusiasts alike.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a typing experience that is muted and deeply satisfying, the Jammy switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a textured typing experience with a thocky and low-pitched sound, the Nixie switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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