Kailh Box Navy vs. HMX Jammy
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the HMX Jammy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Kailh Box Navy and the HMX Jammy. The Box Navy is a clicky switch known for providing a heavy typing experience with a distinct sound signature and tactile feedback reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards. On the other hand, the Jammy is a linear switch featuring softer nylon housings and a medium-weight feel, offering a more muted and satisfying typing experience. While the Box Navy appeals to those who enjoy a crispy and invigorating typing experience, the Jammy is more for those who prefer a softer and smoother feel. 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
57g
Bottom-out force
90g
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
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Navy and the HMX Jammy differ significantly in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Box Navy utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which imparts a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound compared to the Jammy's nylon top housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound profile, while the softer nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder tone. This contrast in housing materials ultimately impacts the overall typing experience and sound produced by each switch.
In terms of the bottom housings, both the Box Navy and the HMX Jammy feature nylon material. This classic switch housing material elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. While the specific characteristics of the bottom housing may not be as readily noticeable as the top housing during typing, they still play a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and feel of the switch. Despite both switches sharing the same bottom housing material, subtle differences in design and construction may lead to slight variations in sound and tactile feedback.
Although the Kailh Box Navy and the HMX Jammy differ in their top housing materials, the use of polycarbonate in the Box Navy and nylon in the Jammy both serve to enhance the acoustics of the switches. Polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for switches intended for RGB lighting, while nylon's sound-absorbing properties create a deeper and fuller sound. Whether you prefer the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper, fuller sound of nylon, both housing materials offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preferences in sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a higher actuation force of 60 grams compared to the HMX Jammy linear switch's 57 grams, making the Box Navy slightly heavier. Additionally, the Box Navy has a significantly heavier bottom out force of 90 grams, while the Jammy has a lighter bottom out force of 63 grams. This means that typing on the Box Navy switch will require more force both to actuate and to fully press the keys compared to the Jammy switch. For those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel, the Box Navy switch would be the better choice. However, for those who prefer a lighter typing experience that allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue, the Jammy switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the weight of the switch plays a crucial role in determining the typing experience and comfort level for different users.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch, it is evident that the Box Navy has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the Jammy's 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Box Navy being slightly shorter. Gamers who prioritize fast response times may prefer the Box Navy due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Jammy with its slightly longer travel distance. 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 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 Navy comes in at $5.50 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
When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box Navy switch offers a resonant and crunchy typing experience, characterized by a higher-pitched sound profile and a sharp, crisp auditory feedback similar to walking on crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the HMX Jammy linear switch's sound profile is yet to be described, so it might offer a quieter typing experience compared to the Box Navy.
In terms of feel, the Box Navy switch provides a sharp, invigorating, and stiff tactile sensation with each keypress, thanks to its strong and distinct tactile bump that requires a higher amount of force to actuate. This creates an immersive typing experience for those who enjoy a more intense feedback. Unfortunately, the actual feel of the HMX Jammy linear switch is unknown at this time, so it's difficult to compare the two in this aspect.
Overall, if you are looking for a heavy, clicky switch with a vintage feel and satisfying auditory and tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Navy switches would be a great choice. However, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with a medium-weight switch and a soft, muted feel, the HMX Jammy linear switches might be more suitable. Keep in mind that sound and feel can also be affected by other factors such as the keyboard's build quality and keycaps used, so it's essential to consider all aspects when choosing the perfect switch for your typing needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between Kailh Box Navy clicky switches and HMX Jammy linear switches, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a heavy typing experience with a pronounced clicky sound and sharp tactile feedback, then the Box Navy switches are the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a softer typing experience with a more muted sound and medium actuation force, the Jammy switches will be more suited to your taste. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference in terms of key feel, sound profile, and typing style. So, choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences and enjoy a satisfying and immersive typing experience.
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