HMX Deep Navy vs. HMX Jammy
An in-depth look at the HMX Deep Navy and the HMX Jammy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Deep Navy and HMX Jammy stand out as two compelling options for enthusiasts seeking a unique typing experience. The Deep Navy switch is celebrated for its rich, sharp sound profile and silky smooth keystrokes, thanks to its full nylon construction and Ly stem. This switch is ideal for users who appreciate a pronounced auditory feedback with each press, making it great for both typing and gaming. In contrast, the HMX Jammy switches offer a different tactile experience; with their medium-weight feel and softer, glittery nylon housings, they provide a more muted but deeply satisfying response. This makes them a preferred choice for those who favor a quieter and more subdued typing environment. While both linear switches cater to the smoothness desired by typists and gamers alike, the decision between the two often hinges on personal preferences for sound and feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that’s right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
57g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Ly
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
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The HMX Deep Navy and HMX Jammy both feature nylon top and bottom housings, making them identical in terms of material composition. The use of nylon in both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, which comes from its relatively soft plastic properties. Nylon is known to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, leading to a rounded acoustic experience. This shared material characteristic ensures that users will enjoy a similar auditory profile when typing on either switch, emphasizing a well-rounded and warm sound instead of a sharp or harsh one.
While the materials are the same, the impact of these nylon housings will differ based on their positions in the switch. In the HMX Deep Navy, the nylon top housing primarily influences the sound when releasing a key, while the nylon bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback. The same principle applies to the HMX Jammy, where the interaction of the nylon top and bottom housings creates the overall typing experience. Even though both switches utilize the same material, the manner in which sound and feel are distributed between the housings ensures that each switch can still offer a unique tactile experience while maintaining a consistently deep and full tonal quality.
Ultimately, the identical materials used in both the Deep Navy and Jammy means that users can expect comparable sound profiles, though specific nuances in typing feel may arise from the design of the switches themselves. By integrating nylon into both the top and bottom housings, both switches create a sound-absorbing environment that minimizes sharp noises, yielding a satisfying sound for typists. Consequently, users concerned about auditory effects will likely be pleased with either option, while the subtle feel differences may lead to a preference based on individual tactile feedback rather than the components’ material properties.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Deep Navy and HMX Jammy linear switches, significant differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX Deep Navy features a light actuation force of 40 grams and a slightly heavier bottom out force of 45 grams, making it an excellent choice for prolonged use, whether for typing or gaming. In contrast, the HMX Jammy has a stronger actuation force of 57 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, offering a more substantial feel when pressing keys. Therefore, for users seeking a lighter switch to minimize fatigue during extended use, the Deep Navy would be preferable. On the other hand, those who enjoy a firmer push and a more tactile typing experience might lean towards the heavier Jammy switch. Each switch offers unique characteristics; the Deep Navy's lighter forces enhance comfort, while the Jammy caters to those who want a stronger response from their keyboard.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Deep Navy and HMX Jammy linear switches, it is evident that the Deep Navy offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Jammy has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. This difference of just 0.1 mm means that if you're looking for a more responsive typing experience, the HMX Deep Navy may be the better choice. For gamers who prioritize rapid key response, the shallower travel distance of the Deep Navy can provide that advantage. Conversely, the HMX Jammy, with its longer travel distance, may offer a more pronounced tactile feedback that some users prefer for a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you value speed and responsiveness or deeper actuation when selecting a switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Deep Navy has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Deep Navy for $2.79.
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 HMX Deep Navy linear switch is renowned for its rich and sharp sound profile, which offers a more pronounced auditory experience with each keystroke. The full nylon construction contributes to a resonant tone that can enhance the typing experience for those who appreciate the audio feedback of their switches. Conversely, the HMX Jammy switch features a softer and more muted sound quality, thanks to its softer nylon housings. This results in a typing experience that feels less aggressive, appealing to users who prefer a subtler acoustic profile while still enjoying a deeply satisfying auditory experience. The sound produced by both switches will ultimately depend on the specific keyboard build and keycap material used, which can further influence their respective sound characteristics.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Deep Navy linear switch delivers an exceptionally smooth typing experience attributed to its Ly stem. This smoothness ensures that each keystroke is fluid and unencumbered, making it a great choice for those who prioritize a seamless feel during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the HMX Jammy linear switch, while also designed for a smooth experience, provides a medium weight that offers a different tactile sensation. This gives users a slight resistance that some may find more engaging when typing, creating a distinct yet enjoyable feel. Ultimately, while both switches promise a linear experience, the nuances in their weight and construction result in varying tactile sensations that can cater to different preferences.
In summary, the HMX Deep Navy switching mechanism is celebrated for its rich and sharp sound along with its silky smooth feel, making it ideal for users who enjoy an audible and fluid typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Jammy switches provide a softer sound and a medium weight feel, appealing to those who prefer a muted yet engaging experience. While both switches offer their unique characteristics, they share a commitment to delivering smoothness, ensuring that both options can cater to different auditory and tactile preferences for newcomers exploring the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch, it’s essential to consider your preferences in feedback and typing experience. If you value a lighter keystroke and enjoy a sharp, resonant sound profile that makes every keystroke feel silky smooth, the Deep Navy is an excellent choice. Its full nylon construction enhances that satisfying auditory experience, making it ideal for both gaming and typing scenarios where feedback is crucial. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier typing experience with a more muted sound, the Jammy switch provides a deeper level of satisfaction with its glittery nylon housings. The medium bottom-out force feels comfortable and offers a nice balance between responsiveness and force, making it suitable for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, your decision should align with your typing style and sound preferences; choose Deep Navy for an engaging and lively sensation or go for Jammy for a comfortably solid and calming feel.