Kailh Box White vs. HMX Jammy
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the HMX Jammy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Box White and the HMX Jammy. The Box White is a clicky switch that is best known for its maximum audio feedback, providing a satisfying "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch sound with each key press. On the other hand, the Jammy is a linear switch featuring a softer nylon housing that offers a more muted typing experience. While the Box White is praised for its high-pitched and crunchy feel, the Jammy stands out for its deeply satisfying typing experience. 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
50g
Actuation force
57g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White and the HMX Jammy switches both feature a nylon bottom housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with harder plastic housings. However, the Box White utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is more rigid and leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Jammy features a nylon top housing for a deeper and fuller sound experience.
In terms of material composition, the Kailh Box White and the HMX Jammy switches differ in their top housing materials. The Box White's polycarbonate top housing offers a more resonant sound profile compared to the Jammy's nylon top housing, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller sound. However, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience. This showcases how different housing materials can impact the overall sound profile of a switch.
When considering the impact of different housing materials on switch performance, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are divided between the top and bottom housings of the switch. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. While the Kailh Box White and the HMX Jammy may have different top housing materials, their shared nylon bottom housing ensures a consistent deep and full sound profile, making them both reliable options for keyboard enthusiasts seeking a unique sound experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch differ slightly. The Box White has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Jammy's 57 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Box White requires slightly more force at 60 grams, while the Jammy is at 63 grams. Both switches fall under the medium category for actuation and bottom out forces. Those who prefer a lighter keystroke may lean towards the Box White, as it offers a lighter actuation force. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may find the Jammy more suitable due to its slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh Box White clicky switch is 3.6 mm, while the HMX Jammy linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances which are increasingly popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The slight difference in travel distance may not be noticeable to some users, but those who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the shorter 3.6 mm distance of the Box White. On the other hand, those who enjoy a deeper key press may find the 3.7 mm travel distance of the Jammy more to their liking. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
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 White comes in at $2.76 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 White clicky switch stands out for its resonant and high-pitched characteristics, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience akin to stepping on crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the HMX Jammy linear switch offers a softer and more muted sound profile due to its nylon housing, providing a satisfying typing experience without the sharp clicks. While the sound of a switch also depends on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, these subjective descriptions give a good idea of the auditory differences between the two switches.
As for feel, the Box White switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, there is no specific description available for the HMX Jammy switch in terms of feel. However, linear switches are generally known for their smooth and consistent keypress without any tactile feedback or audible click, offering a different typing experience compared to clicky switches like the Box White.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box White clicky switch excels in providing a tactile and audible typing experience with its resonant sound and polished feel. On the other hand, the HMX Jammy linear switch offers a more muted sound profile and a satisfying typing experience with its medium-weight and glittery nylon housing. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel, so choosing between them ultimately depends on individual preferences and typing style. If you prefer a clicky and tactile typing experience, the Box White would be the way to go, while the Jammy would suit those looking for a smoother and quieter typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance, so you can expect similar results in terms of durability and reliability from either choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a keyboard switch that provides maximum audio feedback and a satisfying tactile response, then the Kailh Box White clicky switch would be the ideal choice for you. The "stepping on autumn leaves"-like crunch and accented tactility make typing on these switches a truly immersive experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more muted typing experience with a softer feel, then the HMX Jammy linear switch would be the better option. With its glittery nylon housing and medium-weight bottom out force, the Jammy switch offers a typing experience that is both pleasant and deeply satisfying. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for sound and feel while typing.
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