Gateron Aliaz vs. HMX Jelly
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the HMX Jelly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Aliaz and the HMX Jelly offer distinct characteristics tailored to different typing preferences. The Aliaz switches are designed for quiet settings, making them an ideal option for office environments where noise can be a concern. Their medium-heavy weight provides substantial tactile feedback, allowing typists to enjoy a satisfying keystroke without the clatter that often accompanies mechanical switches. In contrast, the HMX Jelly switches cater to those who prioritize smoothness and sound. With a lightweight 42g actuation force and a deep, thocky sound signature, they excel in providing a fluid typing experience that's particularly satisfying for fast typists who enjoy a low-profile feedback. While the Aliaz focuses on a muted, polished feel suitable for quieter surroundings, the Jelly switches are all about smooth performance and deeper acoustics. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T2
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 extended single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Aliaz and HMX Jelly switches present two distinct approaches to housing materials, which significantly influence their acoustic properties and overall feel during use. The Aliaz features polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, a choice that results in a bright and sharp sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffness contributes to a clearer resonance, leading to a more pronounced top-out and bottom-out sound. This sharper acoustic quality is particularly advantageous for users who prefer a lively keystroke experience. Additionally, the clear nature of polycarbonate makes it an appealing choice for RGB lighting enthusiasts, as it enhances the visual appeal of illuminated switches.
In contrast, the HMX Jelly opts for nylon for both its top and bottom housings, which produces a decidedly deeper and fuller sound profile. The inherent softness of nylon allows it to absorb sound more effectively than polycarbonate, yielding a duller and rounder auditory experience. This characteristic makes the Jelly switches a suitable option for users who favor a more muted and subtle sound while typing. The choice of nylon also impacts the tactile feedback of the switch, imparting a slightly softer feel on bottoming out compared to the stiffer polycarbonate of the Aliaz, which can influence the typing experience for those who prioritize comfort over acoustics.
While the materials differ, both switches share a commonality in their top and bottom housing configurations that affect their unique sound profiles. The Aliaz, with its dual polycarbonate construction, may produce a sharper and more resonant experience, whereas the Jelly, with its nylon makeup, creates a fuller and mellower sound. Users might find that the overall auditory experience can be somewhat balanced depending on how each individual interacts with the switches; for instance, the polycarbonate Aliaz may feel crisper during key releases, while the nylon Jelly will instill a sense of depth during key presses. Ultimately, both switches will contribute uniquely to the typing dynamics based on their material differences, offering users a choice that aligns with their personal preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the HMX Jelly linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Aliaz features a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience that may appeal to users who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the Jelly switch is lighter, with an actuation force of just 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, as it reduces finger fatigue. Therefore, while the Aliaz offers a heavier resistance suitable for users seeking tactile feedback, the Jelly delivers a lighter touch for ease of use. Overall, if you're drawn to lighter switches for comfort, the HMX Jelly would be the superior choice; conversely, if you prefer a firmer feel while typing, the Gateron Aliaz would be more appropriate.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the HMX Jelly linear switch, the Aliaz has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jelly measures 3.8 mm. This means that the Aliaz provides a longer travel distance than the Jelly, making it a better choice for those who prefer a deeper, more tactile feel when pressing keys. On the other hand, the Jelly, with its shorter travel distance, may appeal to gamers or users seeking a faster response time, as shorter travel often leads to quicker key actuations. Therefore, if you prioritize a robust typing experience, the Aliaz would be more suitable, whereas if you lean towards a more responsive action, the Jelly is the way to go. Overall, the length difference between these two switches underscores the trade-off between a traditional, hearty feel and the more rapid feedback of shorter travel distances.
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 Jelly has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jelly 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Aliaz switches stand out for their muted profile, designed to minimize typical mechanical keyboard noise. This makes them ideal for quieter environments like offices, allowing users to type without distracting those around them. In contrast, the HMX Jelly switches are characterized by a low-pitched, deep thocky sound signature, which tends to be more pronounced and satisfying for those who appreciate auditory feedback in their typing experience. Although both switches can produce unique sounds, the Aliaz is focused on a quieter, more subdued operation, whereas the Jelly offers a richer auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Aliaz switches are noted for their silky and polished characteristics. This means they provide an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance, thanks in part to their factory lubrication. The medium-heavy actuation force adds a sense of substantiality, making each keystroke feel pronounced yet still comfortable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, while the Jelly switches are recognized for their super smooth action due to excellent factory lubing, their specific tactile feedback and overall feel remain less detailed in this context. The Aliaz’s combination of weight and smoothness provides a uniquely refined touch that might appeal to users seeking a tactile experience without the encumbrance of noise.
In summary, while the Gateron Aliaz and HMX Jelly switches cater to different user preferences, they each offer their own distinct qualities. The Aliaz excels in providing a subdued sound profile and a smooth, polished feel perfect for quiet environments, making them suitable for office use. The Jelly switches, with their deep sound signature and smooth actuation, may appeal to those who enjoy more auditory feedback but potentially need more information regarding their overall tactile experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether noise and a tactile feel or a more pronounced sound and slickness are higher on one’s list of priorities.
Conclusion
To conclude, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch or the HMX Jelly linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences regarding sound, feedback, and environment. If you find yourself in a quiet office setting or you need a switch that won’t disrupt those around you, the Aliaz is the ideal choice thanks to its muted sound profile and substantial tactile feedback from its medium-heavy weight. This switch offers a pleasurable typing experience, especially for those who appreciate a noticeable response without the associated noise of traditional switches. On the other hand, if you're seeking a smooth and lightweight option for gaming or extensive typing sessions, the Jelly will serve you well. With its low actuation force and the deep thocky sound that adds character to your keystrokes, it provides an enjoyable and satisfying typing experience, particularly if you prefer rapid key presses and a more relaxed typing feel. Therefore, aligning your choice with the environment you’re in and the typing experience you enjoy will help you make an informed decision between these two excellent switches.
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