HMX Jammy vs. HMX KD200
An in-depth look at the HMX Jammy and the HMX KD200 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, both the HMX Jammy and the HMX KD200 linear switches offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Jammy switch, with its softer, glittery nylon housings, provides a unique typing experience that is both muted and deeply satisfying, making it an excellent choice for users seeking a more relaxed and tactile feel during long typing sessions. In contrast, the KD200 stands out as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, delivering a more pronounced auditory feedback that can enhance the satisfaction of every keystroke, ideal for those who enjoy a bit more sound and responsiveness from their switch. While both switches cater to linear switch enthusiasts, their character and feedback can drastically influence your typing experience. 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
57g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Jammy and HMX KD200 keyboards both feature top and bottom switch housings crafted from nylon, a material celebrated for its acoustic properties. Both keyboards leverage the benefits of nylon, culminating in a typing experience that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon helps absorb sound effectively, resulting in a more muted auditory feedback and a rounder tonal quality when typing. Therefore, users can expect a similar auditory experience while using either the Jammy or the KD200, as the shared housing material enhances the overall sound dynamics.
Although both the Jammy and KD200 utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, factors such as design or structural elements might differentiate their switch behavior. With both keyboards embodying nylon, the key feel and bottom-out sound may still exhibit subtle variances. For instance, while both housings contribute to the overall typing experience, the nuances might arise from how each keyboard's design implements the nylon housings. Users might find that while the acoustic profile remains consistently rich and muted, the feel upon bottoming out could differ based on other design features.
Ultimately, the consistent choice of nylon in both the HMX Jammy and the HMX KD200 establishes a strong foundation for sound absorption and acoustic quality. This shared material usage suggests that any differences between the two models may not significantly detract from the appealing sound profile they both provide. The impact each nylon housing has on the typing experience is distributed accordingly; the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound while the top housing affects the release sound. Therefore, regardless of the model chosen, users are bound to enjoy a comparable sound signature, reinforcing nylon's value as a housing material in both configurations.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Jammy linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch, significant differences in both actuation force and bottom out force can be noted. The Jammy requires an actuation force of 57 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, making it a medium-weight option that offers a stronger tactile experience. In contrast, the KD200 is lighter, with an actuation force of only 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a gentler touch that could be more comfortable for prolonged use in typing or gaming. This means that users who prefer a lighter switch for extended periods might lean toward the KD200, while those who appreciate a more substantial feel might choose the Jammy. Ultimately, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces between these two switches cater to varied user preferences regarding typing experience and endurance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Jammy linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch, we find a notable difference: the Jammy has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the KD200 has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the KD200 the more suitable option for those who favor quicker response times, as shorter travel distances tend to enhance speed and efficiency, particularly for gamers. On the other hand, the Jammy, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to users who appreciate a more satisfying keystroke depth, providing a more substantial feel and potentially reducing the abruptness that comes with shorter options. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference, balancing the desire for responsiveness with the comfort of a deeper keystroke.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The HMX KD200 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the KD200 for $3.29.
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 Jammy linear switch offers a muted auditory experience that is pleasing and discreet, making it well-suited for environments where noise levels need to be kept in check. The softer, glittery nylon housings contribute to an overall sound profile that prioritizes a tranquil typing experience. Conversely, the HMX KD200 linear switch stands out as the loudest option in the HMX Film switch family, known for its clacky resonance that brings a more pronounced auditory feedback. This difference means that while the Jammy is ideal for those who prefer quiet, satisfying keystrokes, the KD200 appeals to users who enjoy a more pronounced and lively typing sound, adding personality to their keystrokes.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Jammy switch provides a medium-weight typing experience that strikes a balance between firmness and softness, allowing for a comfortable and responsive touch. The design of the switch aims for a deeply satisfying sensation with each keystroke, making long typing sessions enjoyable. On the other hand, the HMX KD200 switch is characterized by a more pronounced tactile response, which contributes to the clacky sound it produces. This switch may offer a more engaging experience for those who appreciate feedback from their switches, making each keystroke feel distinct and more interactive.
In conclusion, both the HMX Jammy and the HMX KD200 linear switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Jammy offers a muted and satisfying experience that is suitable for quieter environments, while the KD200 gives users a pronounced auditory experience filled with clacking sounds. The choice ultimately depends on individual preferences for sound and the tactile sensation one seeks while typing. Whether one prefers the soft and subtle characteristics of the Jammy or the lively feedback of the KD200, both switches will provide a fulfilling typing experience tailored to different environments and user tastes.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Jammy linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing requirements. If you lean towards a more muted and comfortable typing experience, the Jammy switch is an excellent choice with its medium bottom-out force of 63 grams and softer nylon housing. Its design provides a deeper satisfaction during prolonged use, making it well-suited for typing tasks and long gaming sessions where tactile feedback is essential without being overly loud. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback during your keystrokes, the KD200, with its lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams and clackiest characteristics within the HMX Film switch family, would enhance your experience. The KD200 is ideal for those who appreciate a more responsive feel and don't mind a bit more sound, making it perfect for fast-paced gaming or when you want your keystrokes to be heard. Ultimately, consider how sound and force impact your typing or gaming, and choose the switch that aligns with your style for a more personalized mechanical keyboard experience.
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