Gateron CM vs. HMX Jammy
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the HMX Jammy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CM and the HMX Jammy mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that they both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The CM switch stands out for its full nylon housing, providing a richer and deeper sound signature compared to traditional polycarbonate housings. With an impeccable factory lube job and lengthened, dual-staged spring, typing on CM switches promises a smooth and bouncy experience. On the other hand, the Jammy switch features a softer nylon housing, giving a more muted and satisfying typing experience. While both switches offer their own advantages, such as the CM switch delivering a 'Buttery' and 'Bassy' feel, and the Jammy switch providing a medium-weight touch, 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
55g
Actuation force
57g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron CM and the HMX Jammy utilize nylon as their top and bottom housing material, resulting in a consistent typing experience for users of both switches. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This characteristic of nylon creates a duller and rounder sound that is preferred by many keyboard enthusiasts.
Despite both switches sharing the same nylon housing material, the Gateron CM and the HMX Jammy may differ in their housing design, which can affect the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing of a switch typically has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Therefore, even with similar materials, the design of the housing can play a significant role in how the switch performs during typing.
Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron CM and the HMX Jammy may come down to personal preference in terms of how the housing design influences the typing experience. With both switches utilizing nylon as their housing material, users can expect a similar level of sound and feel when typing. However, subtle differences in design may lead to a preference for one switch over the other based on individual typing preferences and habits.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CM linear switch to the HMX Jammy linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in their performance. The CM has a slightly lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Jammy's 57 grams, making it more responsive for quick typing. In terms of bottom out force, the CM requires 63.5 grams, while the Jammy requires 63 grams, resulting in a similar typing experience when fully depressed. The CM can be considered to have a medium-heavy feel, while the Jammy falls into the medium category. Overall, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference - whether one prefers a lighter actuation force for extended typing sessions or a slightly heavier feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer a balance between actuation force and bottom out force, providing users with a satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Jammy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Jammy being slightly longer than the CM. Gamers may prefer the CM for its slightly shorter distance, allowing for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Jammy. Overall, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, catering to different preferences for typing and gaming experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
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 CM linear switch stands out for its bassy, thocky, and low-pitched characteristics, delivering a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. This sound experience is complemented by the full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job, offering a satisfying auditory sensation with each keystroke. On the other hand, information on the sound of the HMX Jammy linear switch is not available, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. However, both switches will provide a unique typing sound experience depending on factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron CM linear switch is often described as buttery, polished, and creamy, ensuring a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. The full nylon housing and dual-staged spring contribute to a frictionless typing journey, allowing for effortless and uniform key presses. In contrast, details on the feel of the HMX Jammy linear switch are missing, making it challenging to provide a comparison in this regard. Nevertheless, both switches are likely to offer a satisfying tactile sensation while typing, with the CM switches emphasizing smoothness and the Jammy switches potentially providing a different tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch stands out for its unique combination of rich sound qualities and smooth typing feel, attributed to features such as the full nylon housing and factory lube job. On the other hand, information on the HMX Jammy linear switch is limited, making it challenging to provide a direct comparison in terms of sound and feel. However, both switches are tailored to offer a satisfying typing experience, and while the specific characteristics may differ, users can expect quality performance from either option. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CM and HMX Jammy switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
Overall, when choosing between the Gateron CM linear switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch, you should consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing experience. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a switch with a bouncy typing experience that delivers a deep and rich sound profile, the Gateron CM linear switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-weight switch with a muted and deeply satisfying typing experience, the HMX Jammy linear switch could be more suited to your preferences. Both switches offer unique features that cater to different typing styles, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when making your decision. Consider trying out both switches to see which one resonates with you the most.
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