Gateron Beer vs. HMX Jammy
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the HMX Jammy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Beer and HMX Jammy offer unique experiences for users. The Gateron Beer, known for its sparkling allure reminiscent of a Tsingtao beer bottle, is a tactile switch that stands out with its translucent green color. This switch is easy-to-press and offers a stepped tactility, providing a distinct feel compared to other tactile switches on the market. Additionally, the Beer switch produces a characteristic clacky sound signature, adding to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Jammy is a linear switch with softer nylon housings that give it a glittery appearance. This medium-weight switch offers a typing experience that is muted yet deeply satisfying. While both switches have their unique features that may appeal to different users, it ultimately 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
50g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Beer and HMX Jammy differ in their housing materials, with the Beer featuring a polycarbonate top and bottom housing while the Jammy uses nylon for both. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches that prioritize clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, perfect for those looking for a duller and rounder sound experience. While both materials have their own distinct qualities, they cater to different preferences in sound and feel.
In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Beer is translucent, making it perfect for switches with RGB lighting as it allows the light to shine through beautifully. On the other hand, the nylon housing of the Jammy may not offer the same visual appeal but makes up for it with its deeper and fuller sound profile. The materials used in the top housing can also affect the sound produced when pressing down on a key, with polycarbonate creating a sharper sound while nylon offers a fuller sound experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Beer and HMX Jammy will come down to personal preference in sound and aesthetics.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Gateron Beer and HMX Jammy, both switches offer a unique sound profile that is influenced by their top and bottom housings. The split in qualities between the top and bottom housings means that the bottom-out sound and feel will be impacted by the material used in the bottom housing, while the sound when releasing a key will be influenced by the top housing material. This showcases how the choice of housing material can greatly impact the overall typing experience and sound produced by a switch, allowing users to tailor their keyboard to their unique preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch, it is evident that the Beer is lighter, with an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. In contrast, the Jammy is heavier, with an actuation force of 57 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Beer makes it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch and want to type for extended periods without fatigue. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force and bottom out force of the Jammy provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer unique typing experiences based on the pressure required for keystrokes, with the Beer being lighter and the Jammy being heavier. This difference in weight allows users to choose a switch that best suits their typing preferences for either extended typing sessions or a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch, we can see that the Beer has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Jammy has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the Jammy has a longer travel distance compared to the Beer. The difference may not be significant, but it can still impact the typing or gaming experience. For those who prefer a more responsive feel and faster response times, the shorter travel distance of the Beer may be the better option. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper feel and more substantial keypress, the longer travel distance of the Jammy could be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Beer has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Beer for $4.59.
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 Gateron Beer tactile switch is known for its characteristic clacky sound signature, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the HMX Jammy linear switch's sound profile remains unknown. Depending on your choice of board and keycaps, the sound produced by each switch may vary, but overall, the Beer switch is likely to deliver a more pronounced and distinct auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is described as being easy-to-press and offering a subtle stepped tactility. These qualities make typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. The HMX Jammy linear switch, with its medium-weight and glittery nylon housings, is stated to provide a muted and deeply satisfying typing experience, but specific details on feel are not provided. While the tactile feel of the Beer switch is more defined, the Jammy switch might offer a smoother typing experience without the tactile bump.
Taking into consideration the information provided, the Gateron Beer tactile switch seems to excel in offering a distinct and clacky sound signature along with an easy-to-press and stepped tactile feel. On the other hand, the HMX Jammy linear switch leans towards a quieter typing experience with a medium-weight feel, although specific details are lacking. Ultimately, if you prefer a switch with a more defined tactile feel and a sharp sound, the Gateron Beer might be the better choice. However, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience, the HMX Jammy could be a suitable option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch, you should consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and enjoy a unique tactile experience with a clacky sound signature, the Beer switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-weight switch with a more muted typing experience, the Jammy switch could be better suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking to achieve. Choose the switch that best aligns with your typing style and preferences to enhance your typing experience.
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