Huano Elf vs. HMX Jammy
An in-depth look at the Huano Elf and the HMX Jammy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Elf and HMX Jammy offer unique experiences for typists and gamers alike, despite both being categorized as linear switches. The Elf is celebrated for its POK top housing that enhances acoustics, providing a deep sound signature with a medium-light feel, making it an appealing choice for those who enjoy a satisfying yet responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Jammy stands out with its softer and glittery nylon housing, delivering a muted but deeply satisfying feedback with a medium weight that caters to users looking for a more cushioned touch. While the Elf prioritizes an engaging auditory experience, the Jammy leans towards a smooth and polished feel, ultimately creating two distinct options for users with varying 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
42g
Actuation force
57g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POK
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
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Elf and HMX Jammy switches, it is important to note the differences in their top housings. The Huano Elf employs a POK top housing, which features an impressively low coefficient of friction at 0.04, exceeding that of nylon's 0.03. This characteristic allows for a notably smooth keystroke experience, amplified by the POK material's exceptional durability; it is 14 times more wear-resistant than POM and offers significantly enhanced shock resistance compared to both Nylon and POM. In contrast, the HMX Jammy utilizes a nylon top housing, which, while classic and reliable, produces a sound profile that differs due to its softer nature, resulting in a rounder sound. The material selection for the top housing directly impacts the tactile feedback and keystroke experience, with the POK material favoring a crisper, more pronounced feel, while nylon contributes to a softer and more muted typing experience.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Huano Elf and HMX Jammy utilize nylon material. This consistency ensures that the acoustic properties of the switch remain similar in the context of bottom housing. Since nylon is softer and absorbs sound effectively, both switches share a deeper and fuller sound profile when pressed. This shared material for the bottom housing means that the qualities of the acoustic feedback upon bottom-out will largely align, providing a familiar experience irrespective of the differences seen in the top housing. In this regard, both switches allow users to enjoy the benefits of nylon's sound-dampening features, presenting a cohesive auditory experience.
Overall, the primary contrast between the two switch types lies in their top housing materials, where the Huano Elf's POK provides a strikingly different tactile sensation and sound profile compared to the nylon in the HMX Jammy. However, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing creates a foundational consistency in sound absorption and feel during operation. Consequently, while the two switches exhibit distinct characteristics due to their top housings, the experience while typing—particularly in terms of bottoming out—remains harmonious, showcasing how housing materials can shape and influence an overall typing experience in nuanced ways.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Elf linear switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch, there is a clear distinction in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Elf features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, which can be more suitable for users who prefer a less taxing typing experience, making it an ideal choice for extended use in both work and gaming settings. In contrast, the Jammy switch has a significantly heavier actuation force of 57 grams, catering to those who appreciate the tactile feedback and a more substantial push feel during typing. Additionally, while the Jammy has a defined bottom out force of 63 grams, the Elf’s bottom out force remains unknown, leaving some uncertainty regarding its full typing experience. Ultimately, if users prioritize a lighter switch for comfort and endurance, the Huano Elf would be the preferred option, while those seeking a firmer touch might gravitate towards the HMX Jammy.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Elf linear switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch, we find that the Elf has a distance of 3.6 mm, while the Jammy measures slightly longer at 3.7 mm. This means that the Elf offers a shorter travel distance compared to the Jammy, which can lead to faster response times favored by gamers. If you prefer a more responsive feel, the Elf would be the better choice due to its shorter travel distance. However, for those who enjoy a bit more depth and heft in their keystrokes, the Jammy with its longer travel distance may be more suitable, despite both options being relatively close in their measurements. Overall, the differences are minimal, with the Elf and Jammy providing distinct tactile experiences based on the preferences for travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Elf has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Elf for $3.29.
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 Huano Elf switch produces a deep sound signature that resonates well while typing. This acoustic profile is enhanced by its POK top housing, which contributes to an overall richer auditory experience. In contrast, the HMX Jammy switch is characterized by its clacky nature, generating a sharp and snappy sound that is both crisp and bright. This percussive quality gives the Jammy a distinct auditory feedback that might appeal to users seeking more audible confirmation of their key presses. Both switches' sound characteristics can be influenced by the choice of keyboard housing and keycaps, meaning that customization can lead to different acoustic results.
In terms of feel, the Elf switch offers a medium-light tactile feedback, which allows for a satisfying typing experience without feeling overly strenuous on the fingers. On the other hand, the Jammy switch presents a medium-weight typing experience that incorporates a bouncy, spring-like response. This elasticity provides a lively sensation as keys rebound when pressed, making typing feel more dynamic and engaging. Furthermore, the Jammy switch is often described as polished, suggesting a smooth operation due to high-quality materials or effective lubrication, which can contribute to a refined touch and minimized friction.
In summary, while both the Huano Elf and HMX Jammy linear switches cater to specific preferences, they each present unique sound and feel characteristics that can affect the typing experience. The Elf’s deep sound and medium-light feel contrast with the Jammy's clacky sound and medium-weight, bouncy responsiveness. Users seeking an acoustic experience balanced with a lighter touch might opt for the Elf, whereas those looking for more auditory engagement and a dynamic feel may prefer the Jammy. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences regarding auditory and tactile feedback during typing.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Huano Elf linear switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch, consider what type of typing experience you desire and the specific characteristics you value most. If you're seeking a switch that delivers a satisfying medium-light feel and enhanced acoustics for a deeper sound signature, the Elf may be your ideal choice. This switch is perfect for those who enjoy a unique auditory experience without too much resistance when typing, making it suitable for both gaming and long typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-weight switch with a bouncy sensation and polished feel, the Jammy is worth considering. Its clacky sound profile paired with the soft yet glittery nylon housing can provide an enjoyable tactile experience, particularly if you appreciate a bit more feedback and a lively response from your keys. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you favor a lighter touch and a rich acoustic experience or a more tactile, responsive, and slightly heavier feel.
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