Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. HMX Jammy
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the HMX Jammy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the HMX Jammy both stand out as linear switches with unique characteristics. The V3 Crystal Pro is renowned for its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Jammy features softer nylon housings with a glittery finish, offering a muted yet deeply satisfying typing experience. While the Crystal Pro is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Chirpy', 'Polished', the Jammy's characteristics are not provided. Each switch has its own appeal and benefits, making them attractive options for different preferences. 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
48g
Actuation force
57g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the HMX Jammy, we can see that the V3 Crystal Pro utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for RGB lighting purposes. On the other hand, the HMX Jammy features a nylon housing for both the top and bottom, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall.
One significant difference between the two switches lies in the housing materials used. While the V3 Crystal Pro uses polycarbonate for both top and bottom housings, the HMX Jammy opts for nylon in its construction. This results in distinct sound profiles, with the V3 Crystal Pro offering a sharper and crisper sound compared to the deeper and fuller sound of the HMX Jammy. Furthermore, the aesthetic appeal of the switches varies, with the translucent quality of polycarbonate in the V3 Crystal Pro allowing for RGB lighting effects, while the nylon housing of the HMX Jammy offers a classic look.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience. The split qualities between top and bottom housings in a switch can influence the overall sound and feel of typing on the keyboard. The bottom housing, whether polycarbonate or nylon, has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, choosing between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the HMX Jammy comes down to personal preference regarding sound profile and aesthetics.
Weight
Comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch, we find that the V3 Crystal Pro has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Jammy's 57 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Crystal Pro requires 60 grams while the Jammy requires 63 grams. Both switches fall under the category of medium weight, with the V3 Crystal Pro being slightly lighter in terms of actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Jammy. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the V3 Crystal Pro for longer typing or gaming sessions, while those who enjoy a heavier push may opt for the Jammy for a more substantial typing experience. In general, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches are slight, so users can expect similar results in terms of typing feel and experience.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the HMX Jammy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, making them ideal for those who prioritize faster response times. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the shorter travel distance of these switches. The slightly longer travel distance of the V3 Crystal Pro may provide a slightly more substantial feel compared to the Jammy, which could feel more abrupt due to its slightly shorter distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference for travel distance and how it impacts typing or gaming experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
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 Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch is known for its chirpy nature, adding a unique squeak to each keystroke that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the HMX Jammy linear switch offers a more muted and deeply satisfying sound profile due to its softer nylon housings. Both switches will provide a pleasant auditory experience, but the V3 Crystal Pro will offer a brighter and more distinctive sound compared to the Jammy.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the V3 Crystal Pro is described as bouncy and polished, providing a spring-like feedback and a smooth, refined typing experience. The keys on the Crystal Pro switch have a lively feel and offer a nice rebound when pressed. Although the feel of the Jammy switch is not specified, it is likely to offer a different tactile experience compared to the Crystal Pro due to its nylon housing and medium-weight design.
Overall, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a brighter and chirpy sound with a bouncy and polished typing experience, the V3 Crystal Pro switch would be the ideal choice. However, if you are looking for a more muted sound profile with a softer typing feel, the HMX Jammy switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, both switches will provide a satisfying typing experience, with the choice between them coming down to personal preference and what type of sound and feel you prefer in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch, your choice will largely depend on your preference for sound and feel. If you prioritize a bright and chirpy sound with a silky smooth typing experience, then the V3 Crystal Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more muted and deeply satisfying typing experience with medium-weight switches that have a glittery nylon housing, then the HMX Jammy may be more to your liking. Consider whether you prefer a chirpy or muted sound, as well as a bouncy and polished feel versus other potential qualities in the switches. Ultimately, the decision boils down to personal preference and the typing experience you wish to achieve.
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