Huano Grape Orange vs. HMX Jelly

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Grape Orange and HMX Jelly both offer unique advantages for users seeking a linear typing experience. The Grape Orange is celebrated for its ultra-light 40g actuation force, delivering an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience that is particularly well-suited for extended typing sessions, accommodating those who prioritize comfort and speed. Conversely, the HMX Jelly features a slightly heavier actuation force at 42g, paired with a distinctive low-pitched, deep, thocky sound signature that many users find satisfying and enjoyable, enhancing the overall typing experience. While both switches cater to those who prefer linear options, each brings its own character to the table—whether you value feather-light responsiveness or a richer auditory feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

Huano Grape Orange Linear

HMX Jelly Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Huano Grape Orange and HMX Jelly switches differ significantly in their top housing materials, which affects their auditory characteristics and performance. The Grape Orange features a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relative stiffness. As a translucent material, polycarbonate is particularly advantageous for RGB lighting, as it allows light to pass through effectively while enhancing the overall aesthetic of the switch. In contrast, the HMX Jelly employs a nylon top housing, which provides a deeper, fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon's softer composition, which absorbs more sound and results in a mellower auditory experience. As a result, users discerning these two switches will notice that the sound quality significantly differs when engaging and releasing keys.

Both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing, as they are both made from nylon. This consistency means that regardless of the top housing material, the bottom housing contributes to a similar sound profile, creating a duller and rounder auditory experience when keys bottom out. The sound absorption properties of nylon help to prevent harsher sounds, ensuring a more muted and comfortable keypress experience across both switches. The nylon bottom housing plays a crucial role in balancing the sound dynamics of each switch, masking some of the sharper notes produced by the polycarbonate top housing of the Grape Orange and complementing the deeper tones from the Jelly.

In conclusion, although the Huano Grape Orange and HMX Jelly switches utilize different materials for their top housings, their shared nylon bottom housing provides a foundational similarity in the sound profile during key presses. Users can expect that while the top housing greatly influences the sound characteristics during key releases, the nylon bottom will ensure both models retain meaningful depth and comfort when bottoming out. This blend can yield similar results in the overall typing experience, allowing users to appreciate a balance of crispness from the polycarbonate and depth from the nylon, making each switch unique but complementary in certain aspects.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the HMX Jelly linear switch, we see that both options are relatively light, appealing to users who may type for extended periods. The Grape Orange switch requires a slightly lower actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Jelly's 42 grams, making it the lighter option in terms of required force for initiating a keystroke. However, the Jelly switch has a lower bottom out force of 48 grams versus the Grape Orange's 50 grams. This results in a more substantial feel when pressing down, despite the Jelly being slightly heavier in the actuation phase. Thus, users seeking a lighter typing experience might gravitate towards the Grape Orange, while those preferring a firmer press might find the HMX Jelly more satisfying due to its unique force characteristics. Overall, both switches can provide a comfortable typing experience, although their slight differences in force will cater to varying preferences among users.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the HMX Jelly linear switch, there is a notable difference. The Grape Orange features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Jelly offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Grape Orange may appeal more to gamers seeking quicker response times, as it provides a more immediate actuation. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Jelly could be favored by those who prefer a more gradual and satisfying keypress, giving a sense of depth that some users find more comfortable. Thus, if you’re looking for a more responsive option, the Grape Orange is the way to go, while the Jelly might suit those who appreciate a fuller typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Huano Grape Orange is relatively quieter, providing a subdued typing experience that may appeal to users who prefer a more discreet auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the HMX Jelly is characterized by its low-pitched, deep, and thocky sound signature, which gives a more pronounced auditory response. This pronounced sound can make typing feel more satisfying, but it may also be more noticeable in shared environments or during late-night sessions.

When focusing on the feel, the Grape Orange offers an exceptionally light and effortless typing experience thanks to its ultra-low 40g actuation force. This makes it ideal for long typing sessions, allowing users to glide through keystrokes with minimal resistance. The HMX Jelly, with a slightly heavier actuation force at 42g, also promotes smooth keystrokes due to its excellent factory lubrication. While both switches aim to provide a smooth experience, the Grape Orange leans towards a lighter and more delicate touch, while the Jelly offers a similar smoothness with just a tad more resistance.

In conclusion, while both the Huano Grape Orange and HMX Jelly linear switches offer unique qualities, they cater to subtly different preferences. The Grape Orange excels with an ultra-light touch and quieter operation, making it perfect for those who prioritize ease of typing. Conversely, the HMX Jelly provides a deeper sound and an equally smooth experience with slightly more force, appealing to users who enjoy more tactile auditory feedback. Ultimately, both switches can deliver excellent results depending on your preferences for sound and feel.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Huano Grape Orange and the HMX Jelly linear switches, consider your typing style and personal preferences. If you prioritize a lighter actuation force for effortless typing, particularly for long typing sessions, the Grape Orange is an excellent choice with its 40g actuation force. Its lighter overall feel enhances comfort, making it ideal for users who want to minimize finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you enjoy a deeper, thocky sound profile and a smooth keystroke experience, the HMX Jelly switch may be more appealing. Its 42g actuation force still provides a lightweight feel but with a richer auditory feedback that can add an enjoyable aspect to your typing. Ultimately, choose the Grape Orange for a swift and light touch, or the Jelly switch for a balanced combination of sound and smoothness, tailoring your experience to suit your individual needs.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Grape Orange Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

HMX Jelly Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more