Kailh Box Mute Jade vs. HMX Jammy
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the HMX Jammy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Box Mute Jade, a clicky switch, with the HMX Jammy, a linear switch, it's clear that they offer distinct typing experiences. The Box Mute Jade is ideal for those who enjoy the tactile feedback and audible click of a clicky switch but prefer a more subdued sound profile. On the other hand, the Jammy switch provides a smooth and quiet typing experience with its linear design. While the Box Mute Jade is categorized as 'Accented,' 'Crunchy,' 'Stiff,' and 'Polished,' the Jammy switch falls into a different category altogether. 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
75g
Actuation force
57g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Mute Jade and the HMX Jammy both feature unique housing materials that have a significant impact on the sound profiles of the switches. The Box Mute Jade's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile with clear and resonant characteristics. In contrast, the Jammy's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile with a duller and rounder tone. Despite these differences, both switches offer distinct auditory experiences due to their top housing materials, with the polycarbonate providing a crisper sound while the nylon delivers a more robust tone.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Box Mute Jade and the HMX Jammy utilize nylon for this component. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches. Nylon's softer properties absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, contributing to a duller and rounder overall sound. The bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, influencing the typing experience significantly. Although the top and bottom housing materials differ between the two switches, they both contribute to creating a satisfying typing experience with unique sound characteristics attributed to their respective materials.
In summary, while the Kailh Box Mute Jade and the HMX Jammy have differing housing materials for their top and bottom components, they both offer distinctive sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box Mute Jade delivers a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for those seeking a more defined typing experience, while the nylon top housing of the Jammy provides a deeper and fuller sound for users looking for a more rounded tone. Regardless of these differences, both switches aim to enhance the overall typing experience through their unique housing materials, ensuring that users can enjoy a customized sound profile based on their preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch, it is evident that the Box Mute Jade is the heavier option with an actuation force of 75 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams. On the other hand, the Jammy is the lighter option, with an actuation force of 57 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams. The Box Mute Jade provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavy forces, while the Jammy offers a lighter touch that allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Both switches have their advantages, with the Box Mute Jade catering to those who prefer a stronger push feel, and the Jammy appealing to those who like a lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch both offer similar travel distances, with the Box Mute Jade at 3.6 mm and the Jammy at 3.7 mm. While the difference between the two is minimal, the Jammy has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Box Mute Jade. The shorter travel distance of the Box Mute Jade may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the slightly longer travel distance of the Jammy may provide a more satisfying depth to the keystrokes for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Kailh Box Mute Jade comes in at $6.50 per 10 switches.
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
In terms of sound, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch provides a distinctive crunchy sound that is reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. This switch offers a quieter clicking experience compared to traditional clicky switches, making it suitable for those who enjoy the tactile feedback without the loud noise. On the other hand, the sound profile of the HMX Jammy linear switch is not well-defined in the provided information, but it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Kailh Box Mute Jade is described as offering an accented tactile feedback, providing a moderate amount of tactility without being overwhelming or too subtle. Additionally, these switches are noted for their stiffness, requiring a higher actuation force compared to other switches, and delivering a polished typing experience with smooth key travel. Conversely, the HMX Jammy linear switch is not explicitly defined in terms of feel in the provided information, so it is difficult to directly compare the tactile experience of the two switches.
Overall, if you are looking for a clicky switch with a unique sound profile and a tactile bump, the Kailh Box Mute Jade is a great option. Its crunchy feel and quieter clicking noise make it a popular choice for those who enjoy tactile feedback without the loud clicking sound. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a muted sound profile and satisfying typing experience, the HMX Jammy might be the switch for you. Both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between the two ultimately depends on your personal typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you enjoy a heavy key feel and a crisp clicky sound, the Kailh Box Mute Jade clicky switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-weight switch with a muted sound profile and a satisfying typing experience, the HMX Jammy linear switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal typing style and sound preference. Whether you prioritize a crunchy feel and quieter sound or a softer typing experience, both switches offer unique qualities to enhance your mechanical keyboard setup. Happy typing!
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