KTT Darling vs. HMX Jammy
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the HMX Jammy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Darling and the HMX Jammy are two unique mechanical keyboard switches that cater to different preferences. The Darling, a linear switch, is praised for its chewy and substantial typing sensation, accompanied by a bouncy responsiveness and a resonant, high-pitched sound upon bottoming out. On the other hand, the Jammy, also a linear switch, offers a softer typing experience with glittery nylon housings that provide a muted yet deeply satisfying feel. While the Darling is known for its clacky and high-pitched feedback, the Jammy remains quiet and smooth. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches comes down to personal preference, but 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
45g
Actuation force
57g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The KTT Darling features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the HMX Jammy uses a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. While polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound, nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Despite their differences, both materials are versatile and popular choices in switch housings for mechanical keyboards.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the KTT Darling and the HMX Jammy utilize nylon as the material of choice. Nylon is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a more rounded sound compared to harder plastics. This means that while the top housing may differ between the two switches, they both share the benefits of nylon in the bottom housing. The impact of the bottom housing can be felt when pressing down on the switch, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the keypress.
Overall, the choice between polycarbonate and nylon housing for switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired sound profile. The KTT Darling's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for those seeking a more high-pitched typing experience. Meanwhile, the HMX Jammy's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, catering to those who prefer a more rounded and mellow typing feel. Both switches feature nylon bottom housings, which contribute to the overall sound profile and impact of the keypress. In the end, the differences in housing materials between the two switches offer unique typing experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch, it is clear that the Darling is the lighter option. The Darling has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Jammy has an actuation force of 57 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range, with the Darling being on the lighter side and the Jammy on the heavier side. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Darling for longer typing sessions, while those looking for a more substantial feel may prefer the Jammy. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the HMX Jammy linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their faster response times. Choosing between the two will depend on personal preference - if you prefer a slightly quicker and more responsive feel, the Darling may be the better option. However, if you enjoy a more substantial and deeper key press, the Jammy with its slightly longer travel distance might be more to your liking. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, providing a modern typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Darling has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Darling for $3.90.
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 KTT Darling linear switch offers a clacky, high-pitched, and resonant typing experience, producing a sharp and crisp sound with each keystroke. This auditory feedback is complemented by a chewy and substantial feel, along with a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to the typing sensation. On the other hand, the HMX Jammy linear switch is described as having a muted sound, which may lack the sharpness and brightness of the Darling. This means that while typing on the Jammy, you may experience a quieter and more subdued sound profile, unlike the engaging blend of tactile and auditory feedback offered by the Darling.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Darling linear switch is characterized by its bouncy nature, providing a lively and elastic feedback sensation that gives a rebound when pressed. This adds to the overall typing experience, making each keystroke feel responsive and satisfying. However, information about the feel of the HMX Jammy linear switch is unavailable, so it is difficult to directly compare the two switches in this aspect.
In conclusion, the KTT Darling linear switch stands out for its pronounced bounciness, high-pitched and resonant sound profile, and chewy tactile feedback, creating a unique and engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Jammy linear switch offers a softer and glittery nylon housing, providing a typing sensation that is muted and deeply satisfying. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Darling and the HMX Jammy will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience that one is looking for.
Conclusion
Therefore, when selecting between the KTT Darling linear switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch, consider the following guidelines: choose the Darling if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, a bouncy and springy typing sensation, a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, and a tactile feedback that is described as chewy and substantial. On the other hand, opt for the Jammy if you prefer a medium bottom out force, a muted typing experience with glittery nylon housings, and a typing sensation that is deeply satisfying. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of typing feel, sound profile, and overall typing experience.
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