Aflion Panda vs. HMX Jammy
An in-depth look at the Aflion Panda and the HMX Jammy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Aflion Panda and the HMX Jammy offer users contrasting experiences. The Aflion Panda is a tactile switch that is celebrated for its hyper-tactile feel and resonant "thocky" sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who seek a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Jammy is a linear switch known for its softer nylon housings and muted typing experience, providing a satisfyingly smooth keystroke. While the Panda boasts a strong tactile force and rich audio feedback, the Jammy offers a quieter and more subtle typing experience. 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
50g
Actuation force
57g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-stage 15mm long spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Aflion Panda and the HMX Jammy both utilize different housing materials for their switches. The Panda features a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. This makes the Panda ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant sound while typing. In comparison, the Jammy's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound. This difference in material highlights how the choice of housing can significantly impact the overall typing experience.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Panda and the Jammy opt for nylon material. This means that typing on switches using either of these keyboards will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when compared to harder plastics. Despite using the same material for the bottom housing, subtle differences in design and construction may still affect the overall feel and sound experience of the switches in each keyboard.
While the Panda and the Jammy share similarities in utilizing nylon for their bottom housing, their choice of material for the top housing sets them apart. The Panda's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Jammy's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound. The split between the qualities each housing material brings to the switches allows users to experience a combination of different sound profiles when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the Aflion Panda and the HMX Jammy will depend on individual preferences for sound and typing experience.
Weight
The Aflion Panda tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the HMX Jammy linear switch, which has an actuation force of 57 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Panda at 60 grams and the Jammy at 63 grams. The Panda offers a lighter typing experience, making it suitable for those who prefer less resistance and want to type for longer periods without fatigue. On the other hand, the Jammy provides a slightly heavier actuation force, giving users a more substantial typing feel. Both switches are classified as medium in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, making them suitable choices for a variety of typing preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch, it is clear that the Panda has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jammy has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. While both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Panda being on the longer side and the Jammy being on the shorter side, the 0.3 mm difference may not be significant to all users. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Jammy, while those who enjoy a more pronounced keypress sensation may lean towards the Panda with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Panda has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Panda for $3.56.
The HMX Jammy has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jammy for $2.99.
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 Panda tactile switch offers a deep and resonant thocky sound profile that is characterized by a lower-pitched and immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Jammy linear switch provides a more muted and satisfying typing sound due to its softer nylon housings. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Panda excelling in providing a rich and sonorous audio feedback while the Jammy offers a quieter and more subdued typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the Panda tactile switch is known for its accentuated tactility, providing a medium level of tactile feedback that is described as invigorating. This means that users can expect a tactile bump that is pronounced but not overwhelming, creating a satisfying typing sensation. Unfortunately, information on the specific feel of the Jammy linear switch is not available. However, based on the description of the switch offering a typing experience that is muted and deeply satisfying, it can be assumed that the Jammy may lack the same level of tactile feedback as the Panda.
In conclusion, the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Panda excels in providing a deep thocky sound profile with a hyper-tactile typing experience, while the Jammy offers a quieter typing sound with a muted and satisfying feel. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Panda being ideal for those who value hypertactility and sonorous audio feedback, and the Jammy appealing to those who prefer a more muted typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to individual preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Aflion Panda tactile switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch, you should consider your preference for a hyper-tactile sensation and a "thocky" sound profile. If you value a super responsive tactile force and a deep, sonorous audio feedback, the Panda would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a typing experience that is muted and deeply satisfying, the Jammy with its softer nylon housings may be more appealing to you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize hypertactility and a resonant sound profile, or a softer typing experience with a glittery touch. Each switch offers unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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