Gateron Aliaz vs. HMX Jammy
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the HMX Jammy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Aliaz and the HMX Jammy offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Aliaz is a tactile switch known for its medium-heavy weight and quiet design, making it ideal for office environments where noise might be a concern. On the other hand, the Jammy is a linear switch with glittery nylon housings, offering a softer typing experience that is both muted and satisfying. While the Aliaz provides a more pronounced feedback with each keystroke, the Jammy focuses on a smooth and consistent 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
60g
Actuation force
57g
Bottom-out force
75g
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
No
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the HMX Jammy, one can see clear differences in the materials used. The Aliaz features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiff nature. This material is also favored for its translucency, making it ideal for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Jammy utilizes nylon for its top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. These differences in material properties result in distinct auditory experiences when typing on the switches.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the same pattern emerges with the Aliaz using polycarbonate and the Jammy using nylon. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Aliaz contributes to its sharp and clear sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Jammy adds to its deeper and rounder sound. Just like with the top housing, these material differences in the bottom housing affect the overall typing experience, shaping the sound and feel of each keystroke. Despite both switches having similar material composition for their top and bottom housings, such as if both used polycarbonate, the specific properties of the material would still create unique characteristics for each switch.
When comparing the overall sound and feel of the switches, the differences in housing materials become even more apparent. The Aliaz, with its polycarbonate top and bottom housings, delivers a sharper and more resonant typing experience, while the Jammy, with its nylon top and bottom housings, provides a softer and fuller sound profile. These contrasting qualities highlight the importance of housing materials in determining the overall typing feel and sound of a mechanical keyboard switch. Whether one prefers the crispness of polycarbonate or the depth of nylon, there are distinct advantages to each material choice in shaping the typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch, it is evident that the Aliaz is the heavier option, with an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams. In contrast, the Jammy is the lighter option, with an actuation force of 57 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams. This means that the Aliaz will provide a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier forces, while the Jammy will offer a lighter touch, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Both switches have a similar actuation force, so users can expect comparable results in terms of triggering keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference, with some opting for the heavier Aliaz for a more tactile typing experience, while others may prefer the lighter Jammy for extended typing sessions.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Jammy linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that the Jammy switch offers a slightly quicker key press experience than the Aliaz switch. Gamers who prioritize fast response times may prefer the Jammy switch due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, users who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Aliaz switch with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer a different tactile experience due to their varying travel distances, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
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
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is known for its muted sound profile, providing a softer and quieter typing experience compared to other mechanical switches. In contrast, the HMX Jammy linear switch, though lacking specific sound descriptions, is said to offer a typing experience that is both muted and deeply satisfying. This suggests that both switches aim to provide a quiet typing experience, with the Aliaz focusing on a softer sound while the Jammy prioritizes overall satisfaction.
When it comes to feel, the Aliaz switch is praised for its silky and polished qualities, offering an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience. These characteristics contribute to reduced friction, smoother key travel, and an overall enhanced typing feel. While specific descriptions of the Jammy's feel are not provided, the medium-weight linear switch is likely to offer a similar smooth typing experience, potentially differing in the level of tactility and feedback compared to the Aliaz.
Overall, both the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch cater to users seeking a quiet and satisfying typing experience. The Aliaz excels in providing a medium-heavy weight with pronounced feedback and a muted sound, while the Jammy offers a potentially similar muted sound profile with a focus on overall satisfaction. Depending on personal preferences for tactility and specific typing feel, users can expect a smooth and refined typing experience with either switch. Ultimately, both switches offer a tailored typing experience for those looking to type in quiet environments without sacrificing on feel and satisfaction.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch, consider your environment and preference for typing feedback. If you work in a quiet office setting and enjoy a medium-heavy keystroke feel with a more pronounced typing feedback, the Aliaz switch would be a great fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a softer and quieter typing experience that still provides a satisfying feel, the Jammy switch with its medium weight and glittery nylon housing is worth considering. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a silent design with substantial keystroke feedback (Aliaz) or a muted yet deeply satisfying typing experience (Jammy).
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