KTT Cream Yellow vs. HMX Jammy
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the HMX Jammy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the KTT Cream Yellow and the HMX Jammy, both of which are linear switches. The Cream Yellow switch is known for its distinctively clacky sound, thanks to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem that provide resonant audio feedback. Additionally, its lengthened spring adds a bouncy typing feel, making it a favorite among typists who enjoy a tactile response. On the other hand, the HMX Jammy switch stands out for its softer nylon housings and medium weight, offering a typing experience that is both muted and deeply satisfying. While the Cream Yellow switch is best known for being bouncy and clacky, the Jammy switch's characteristics lean towards a quieter and more subtle 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
58g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the HMX Jammy, we see that the Cream Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Jammy has a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Jammy produces a deeper and fuller sound profile by virtue of its softer nature, absorbing more sound to create a rounder tone. While both materials have their unique qualities, the choice between them ultimately depends on the desired sound profile and aesthetic preferences of the user.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Cream Yellow and the Jammy feature nylon materials. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that enhances the sound profile by offering a deeper and fuller tone. Its softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. With both switches utilizing nylon for their bottom housing, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. This consistency in material choice for the bottom housing ensures that the switches deliver a comparable typing experience in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback.
When considering the impact of housing material on the overall typing experience, it's important to note that the qualities brought by each housing material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the choice between a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon top housing, along with the matching nylon bottom housing, will ultimately dictate the sound profile and tactile feedback of the switch during use. Whether opting for the sharper sound of a polycarbonate top housing or the deeper tone of a nylon top housing, users can expect a distinct typing experience based on their housing material preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch, it is evident that both switches fall into the medium weight category. The Cream Yellow requires an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, while the Jammy has an actuation force of 57 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams. This makes the Cream Yellow the lighter option in terms of actuation force, while the Jammy is slightly heavier. Both switches provide a similar typing experience due to their comparable actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming sessions where a consistent feel is desired. Overall, the choice between the two switches may come down to individual preference for a lighter or slightly heavier touch when typing.
Travel distance
The KTT Cream Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the HMX Jammy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that the Jammy has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cream Yellow. Typically, a switch with a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may feel more substantial to some users. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular in the market. So, if you value a slight difference in travel distance, you may choose the HMX Jammy for a slightly longer travel distance. However, if both distances are acceptable to you, you may expect similar results in terms of feel and performance from both switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow for $2.55.
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
Considering the information provided, the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch is favored for its clacky sound profile, offering a sharp and resonant typing experience. The unique design features such as the shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem contribute to this distinct audio feedback. On the other hand, the HMX Jammy linear switch is known for its softer and more muted sound due to the glittery nylon housings. When it comes to typing feel, the Cream Yellow switch is described as bouncy, providing a lively and spring-like sensation when typing. In contrast, the Jammy switch offers a medium-weight typing experience that is deeply satisfying. Overall, while the Cream Yellow switch is characterized by its clacky sound and bouncy feel, the Jammy switch offers a more muted sound and satisfying typing experience. If you prefer a more lively and sharp sound with a bouncy feel, the Cream Yellow switch would be the ideal choice. However, if you prefer a softer and more muted sound with a satisfying typing experience, the Jammy switch would be a suitable option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the overall typing experience you desire.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you value a distinctively clacky sound with a bouncy typing feel, the Cream Yellow switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a typing experience that is muted yet deeply satisfying, the Jammy switch with softer nylon housings may be more appealing. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize the unique sound and feel of the Cream Yellow switch or the soft and satisfying typing experience of the Jammy switch.
Mentioned in this article
