HMX Cloud - 50g vs. HMX Jammy
An in-depth look at the HMX Cloud - 50g and the HMX Jammy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing options such as the HMX Cloud - 50g and the HMX Jammy, both of which are categorized as linear switches but offer distinct experiences. The HMX Cloud - 50g stands out for its clacky sound profile and lighter actuation force, making it ideal for those who seek a bright and lively typing experience with a silky smooth feel. On the other hand, the HMX Jammy, with its softer and glittery nylon housings, delivers a more muted yet deeply satisfying typing experience, perfect for users who prioritize comfort over pronounced auditory feedback. Both switches cater to different typing preferences; the Cloud - 50g appeals to those who crave feedback through sound, while the Jammy focuses on a plush tactile experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
57g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cloud - 50g and the HMX Jammy, it becomes apparent that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This choice of material is significant because nylon is well-known for its acoustic properties, which contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. Specifically, the use of nylon leads to a deeper and fuller sound when typing, as the softer nature of the plastic absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials. Consequently, both the Cloud - 50g and the Jammy promise users a consistent auditory experience, characterized by a duller and rounder sound that many typists and gamers find satisfying.
Despite the similarity in housing materials, the way each switch manifests these properties can vary. The bottom housing is primarily responsible for the bottom-out sound and feel during a keypress, while the top housing influences the sound experienced upon releasing a key. Because both the Cloud - 50g and Jammy share the same nylon composition for both their top and bottom housings, users can expect similarly pleasant keypress experiences across both models. The specific type of nylon may vary slightly, but the fundamental characteristics of softness and sound absorption remain constant, leading to comparable feedback and acoustics.
In summary, while the HMX Cloud - 50g and HMX Jammy switches are built using the same nylon housing materials, fostering a consistent sound profile, their user experiences may still feel distinct due to other design elements or switch mechanisms. Still, the sonic characteristics that nylon imparts—like a muted resonance and a satisfying feedback upon each key press—are effectively universal across both switches. Users can enjoy a cohesive typing experience, ensuring that whether they opt for the Cloud - 50g or the Jammy, the results will be harmoniously similar, catering to those seeking an enhanced auditory and tactile interaction with their keyboards.
Weight
The HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch differ notably in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Cloud - 50g features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suited for extended typing sessions or gaming, as the lighter feel can reduce finger fatigue. In contrast, the Jammy switch has a higher actuation force of 57 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, offering a more substantial push feel that some users may prefer for a satisfying typing experience. Therefore, the Cloud - 50g is the lighter option, while the Jammy is heavier. Users looking for ease during long usage might gravitate toward the Cloud - 50g, while those seeking a firmer tactile response will likely favor the Jammy switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Cloud - 50g linear switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch, the Cloud - 50g offers a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Jammy features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. This distinction means that the Cloud - 50g provides a more substantial feel when pressed, which can be favorable for users who appreciate a deeper key press experience. Conversely, the Jammy's shorter travel distance may cater to gamers and others who prioritize quicker response times without the need for an extensive key press. As preferences vary, those who enjoy a hearty depth may lean towards the Cloud - 50g, while those seeking a snappier feel may find the Jammy to be the better option. Overall, the slight difference in travel distance can significantly influence user experience, highlighting the importance of personal preference in switch selection.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cloud - 50g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cloud - 50g for $2.99.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX Cloud - 50g switch delivers a distinctly clacky sound profile that is highly favored by enthusiasts seeking a bright and engaging typing experience. This lively acoustic feedback can enhance the overall enjoyment during long typing sessions, providing an auditory reward with each keystroke. In contrast, the HMX Jammy switch offers a more muted sound, characterized by its softer tones due to its nylon housings. This can create a more subdued environment, ideal for those who prefer a quieter workspace while still achieving a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the sound of the switches will also be influenced by the specific keyboard build and keycap choice, but you can generally expect these tendencies to hold true.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cloud - 50g boasts a silky smooth response, allowing for fluid motion across the keypress—this aspect makes it particularly appealing for users who favor a lighter touch. The ease of actuation can enhance typing speed, making it suitable for gaming or extensive writing sessions. On the other hand, the HMX Jammy switch provides a deeply satisfying tactile response, with its medium weight offering a balanced resistance that caters to a more controlled typing experience. The softer nylon construction contributes further to the comfort during long usage, allowing users to enjoy a pleasant and somewhat cushioned feel under their fingers.
In summary, the HMX Cloud - 50g and HMX Jammy linear switches present distinct sound and feel profiles that cater to different user preferences. The Cloud - 50g's clacky sound and silky smooth feel offer a bright and lively typing experience, perfect for enthusiasts seeking engagement and speed. Conversely, the Jammy switch’s muted sound and plush tactile feedback provide a more controlled and satisfying experience, ideal for users in quieter environments. Both switches promise to deliver enjoyable results, and the ultimate choice will depend on individual preferences regarding sound and feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Cloud - 50g and the HMX Jammy linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences regarding weight, sound, and typing experience. If you favor a lighter touch and enjoy a bright, clacky sound profile, the Cloud - 50g will likely enhance your typing experience with its silky smooth feel and engaging auditory feedback. This makes it an excellent option for typists who prioritize speed and a more vibrant sound. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial keystroke with a muted and deeply satisfying feel, the HMX Jammy switches, with their heavier 63g bottom out force, might be the better choice for you. Their softer nylon housing contributes to a more subdued sound while still providing a comfortable, solid typing experience. Therefore, consider what matters most to you, whether it's the light and lively feel of the Cloud - 50g or the more grounded and plush typing experience of the Jammy, and let that guide your selection.
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