Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. HMX Jammy
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the HMX Jammy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Everglide Aqua King V3 and the HMX Jammy, both linear switches, offer unique typing experiences. The Aqua King V3 is known for its smooth and frictionless feel, creating a sensation akin to gliding on ice. On the other hand, the Jammy boasts a softer and more subdued typing experience with its medium-weight switches. While the Aqua King V3 is described as smooth, creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished, the Jammy lacks specific categorization. Each switch has its own appeal: the Aqua King V3 for its magical typing experience and the Jammy for its muted yet satisfying feel. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
46g
Actuation force
57g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Nylon
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
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the HMX Jammy both feature different housing materials for their top and bottom housings, with the Aqua King (V3) utilizing polycarbonate for both and the Jammy using nylon. The polycarbonate top housing of the Aqua King (V3) creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, while the nylon top housing of the Jammy produces a deeper, fuller sound by absorbing more sound with its softness. In terms of aesthetics, the clear polycarbonate top housing of the Aqua King (V3) is ideal for RGB lighting, while the nylon top housing of the Jammy is a classic choice known for its sound profile.
In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Aqua King (V3) also contributes to its sharp, crisp sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Jammy adds to its deeper, fuller sound. The impact of the bottom housing material is more noticeable when pressing down on the switch, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing material has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. The split between housing materials in a switch allows for a combination of qualities to enhance the overall typing experience.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Aqua King (V3) and the Jammy, both switches offer unique sound profiles based on the qualities of their respective materials. While the polycarbonate of the Aqua King (V3) provides a sharper, clearer sound, the nylon of the Jammy offers a deeper, rounder sound. Both switches showcase how different housing materials can affect the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, selecting a switch with the desired housing materials can enhance the typing experience based on individual preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
A comparison of the actuation force and bottom out force between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch reveals some differences. The Aqua King has a lighter actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Jammy's 57 grams, making it easier to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Aqua King requires 62 grams while the Jammy needs 63 grams, indicating a slightly heavier typing experience on the Jammy. Both switches fall into the medium range for actuation and bottom out forces. Depending on personal preference, the lighter actuation force of the Aqua King may be more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the Jammy's slightly heavier bottom out force may provide a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Jammy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the Jammy has a shorter travel distance compared to the Aqua King. The Aqua King's 4 mm travel distance is more on the traditional side, offering a balance between depth and responsiveness. On the other hand, the Jammy's 3.7 mm travel distance is slightly shorter, catering to those who prefer faster response times. Both switches provide a smooth linear feel, but the slight difference in travel distance may impact the overall typing experience for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) has an MSRP of $7.18 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aqua King (V3) for $5.44.
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
When it comes to sound, the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch is known for its subdued sound, which offers a dampened and subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the sound profile of the HMX Jammy linear switch is unknown. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Aqua King (V3) linear switch is described as creamy, frictionless, silky, and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience. The typing sensation is compared to gliding fingers across keys with ease, emphasizing the fluid travel and reduced friction of the switch. As for the HMX Jammy linear switch, the description of its typing feel is unknown.
Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Aqua King (V3) provides a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal resistance, the Jammy switch offers a muted and deeply satisfying typing feel. If you're looking for a switch with a frictionless and polished feel, the Aqua King (V3) would be a great choice. However, if you prefer a softer typing experience, the HMX Jammy might be the switch for you. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who values a typing experience that feels like gliding on ice with minimal friction and effortless keystrokes, then the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a typing experience that is more muted and deeply satisfying, with a softer touch and glittery housing, then the HMX Jammy linear switch would be the better choice for you. Consider your personal preferences for sound, feel, and bottom out force when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that best suits your needs for a truly enjoyable typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
