Everglide Crystal Violet vs. HMX Jammy
An in-depth look at the Everglide Crystal Violet and the HMX Jammy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch to the HMX Jammy linear switch, it's important to note that both offer distinct advantages depending on your typing preferences. The Crystal Violet switch is praised for its light operating force of 45g, making it ideal for those who prefer a relaxed and stepped tactile typing experience. The sound profile of the Crystal Violet is described as pleasantly mellow and low-pitched, creating a subtle auditory experience. On the other hand, the HMX Jammy linear switch boasts softer nylon housings, offering a typing experience that is both muted and deeply satisfying. While the Crystal Violet is categorized as creamy, low-pitched, mild, neutral, and stepped, the Jammy's categorization remains undefined. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
57g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
ABS
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
ABS
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Crystal Violet and the HMX Jammy, a noticeable difference lies in the top housing material used. The Crystal Violet utilizes ABS for its top housing, while the Jammy opts for nylon. ABS tends to produce a relatively low-pitched sound profile when typing, while nylon creates a deeper and fuller sound. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users of these switches.
On the other hand, both the Crystal Violet and the HMX Jammy share the use of ABS for their bottom housing material. This commonality means that users can expect a similar low-pitched sound profile when typing on switches featuring ABS bottom housings. While the bottom housing may not play as significant a role in the overall typing experience as the top housing, it does contribute to the sound and feel of the switch when pressed down.
Ultimately, the choice between the Everglide Crystal Violet and the HMX Jammy may come down to personal preference in sound profile. The ABS top housing of the Crystal Violet offers a unique typing experience with its low-pitched sound, while the nylon top housing of the Jammy provides a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches share the use of ABS for their bottom housing, ensuring a similar sound profile in that regard. Whether users prefer a crisper sound with the Crystal Violet or a softer, rounder sound with the Jammy, the housing materials play a key role in shaping the overall typing experience.
Weight
The Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the HMX Jammy linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 57 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Crystal Violet requires 55 grams to fully press down, while the Jammy needs 63 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range in terms of actuation force. Lighter actuation forces like the Crystal Violet's are preferred by those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Jammy might appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch is 4 mm, while the HMX Jammy linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. This makes the Crystal Violet the longer option between the two switches. A 0.3 mm difference may not seem like much, but it can make a noticeable impact on the feel and performance of the switch. Those who prefer a deeper key press may appreciate the longer travel distance of the Crystal Violet, while those looking for a quicker response time may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Jammy. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Crystal Violet has an MSRP of $7.08 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Crystal Violet for $4.19.
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 Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, offering a mellow and non-intrusive auditory experience. The HMX Jammy linear switch, on the other hand, does not have a specific sound description provided. When comparing these two switches, it can be inferred that the Crystal Violet switch will provide a softer and more subtle typing sound compared to the Jammy switch, which might have a different acoustic profile due to its glittery nylon housing.
Regarding the feel, the Everglide Crystal Violet switch is noted for its creamy, mild, and stepped tactile experience. These switches offer a smooth and buttery typing sensation, with a gentle feel that falls into a safe middle ground for most users. The stepped tactile feature provides a two-stage keystroke sensation, adding to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, specific feel characteristics for the HMX Jammy linear switch are not provided. Based on the information available, it can be inferred that the Jammy switch will likely offer a satisfying and muted typing experience due to its medium-weight and glittery nylon housing.
Considering all the available information, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch is prized for its gentle and comfortable typing experience with a mellow sound profile. In contrast, the HMX Jammy linear switch offers a satisfying and muted typing feel, although specific sound and feel descriptions are not provided. Ultimately, both switches cater to users seeking a relaxed typing experience, with the Crystal Violet focusing on tactile feedback and a creamy sensation, while the Jammy emphasizes a medium-weight typing experience. Depending on individual preferences, users can expect similar results in terms of typing satisfaction and performance from both switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you value a light operating force, a gentle tactile feel, and a mellow, low-pitched sound profile, the Crystal Violet may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, a muted typing experience, and a medium-weight switch, the Jammy could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of operating force, tactile feedback, sound profile, and overall typing feel.
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