KTT Ash Gray vs. HMX Jammy
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the HMX Jammy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options to choose from, each offering unique benefits to enhance your typing experience. For those seeking a tactile switch, the KTT Ash Gray stands out for its blend of tactile feedback without being too overwhelming. Its light touch and crisp actuation make it a popular choice for those who prefer a more subtle tactile response. On the other hand, the HMX Jammy linear switch offers a different typing experience with its medium-weight keys housed in softer, glittery nylon housings. This switch provides a muted yet deeply satisfying typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences, but ultimately, the choice between them comes down to personal preference. 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
38g
Actuation force
57g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
18mm spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Ash Gray and the HMX Jammy differ in terms of the top housing material used. The Ash Gray features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Jammy utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the Ash Gray offers a more clear and resonant sound, while the nylon in the Jammy absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
In contrast, both the Ash Gray and the Jammy feature a nylon bottom housing. This material choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches as nylon is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, impacting the overall typing experience. Despite having different top housing materials, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures a similar sound experience when using either the Ash Gray or the Jammy.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches significantly influences the sound profile and feel of typing. The use of polycarbonate in the Ash Gray's top housing creates a sharp and clear sound, while the nylon top housing of the Jammy offers a deeper and fuller sound experience. Both switches benefit from the nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a more consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile. Understanding the impact of different housing materials on switch performance can help users make informed decisions based on their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the HMX Jammy linear switch with an actuation force of 57 grams, making the Ash Gray feel easier to trigger. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Ash Gray requires a heavier force of 53 grams compared to the Jammy's 63 grams, giving the Jammy a slightly firmer typing experience overall. Both switches fall within the medium-light to medium range, providing a balance between ease of typing and a more substantial feel. So, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a heavier bottom out force, the Ash Gray might be the better option for you, while the Jammy would be ideal if you prefer a slightly heavier overall typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the HMX Jammy linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances favored by gamers for quicker response times, the Ash Gray is the shorter of the two. This means that the Ash Gray may provide a slightly faster key press compared to the Jammy. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance of the Ash Gray to feel too abrupt, while others may appreciate the quicker responsiveness it offers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the feel of the key press.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Ash Gray has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ash Gray for $2.55.
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 KTT Ash Gray switch is known for its neutral profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and settings. On the other hand, information regarding the sound profile of the HMX Jammy switch is not provided, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Ash Gray switch is lauded for its easy-to-press design, offering minimal resistance during key presses for a comfortable typing experience that reduces fatigue. Additionally, it provides a mild typing feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. Unfortunately, details about the feel of the HMX Jammy switch are not available for comparison.
In conclusion, the KTT Ash Gray switch is known for its tactile feedback that strikes a balance between providing a noticeable response without being overwhelming, while also boasting a neutral sound profile and easy-to-press feel. On the other hand, the HMX Jammy switch offers a typing experience that is muted and deeply satisfying, though specific information on sound and feel is lacking. Depending on your preferences, both switches may offer similar results in terms of sound and feel due to their balanced and approachable qualities. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you are looking for a medium-light tactile switch with a crisp actuation and a delightful blend of tactile feedback, the Ash Gray is an excellent choice. It provides an easy-to-press typing experience with a moderate sound profile suitable for various settings. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium linear switch with a muted and deeply satisfying typing experience, the Jammy may be the better option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for the specific typing feel and sound profile that best suits your needs and preferences.
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