HMX Jammy vs. Keygeek Keylin
An in-depth look at the HMX Jammy and the Keygeek Keylin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Jammy and the Keygeek Keylin both offer unique advantages that cater to different typing preferences. The HMX Jammy is celebrated for its softer nylon housings and medium weight, creating a typing experience that's not only muted but also deeply satisfying, embodying characteristics such as 'Clacky', 'Bouncy', and 'Polished'. This makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a slightly tactile response with an appealing sound profile. In contrast, the Keygeek Keylin leverages new molds, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience complemented by rich acoustics, making it ideal for users seeking a premium feel without the distraction of noise or friction. Both switches present compelling reasons to try them—be it the Jammy's delightful combination of softness and bounce or Keylin's focus on smoothness and acoustics. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
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
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Jammy and the Keygeek Keylin, both switches share a commonality that sets them apart from many others in the market: their exclusive use of nylon for both top and bottom housings. This choice in material significantly influences the acoustic characteristics and typing experience of each switch. With nylon being a softer plastic, both switches are designed to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, allowing for a typing experience that minimizes sharpness and enhances subtlety. This characteristic culminates in a more rounded and dulcet tone during use, providing a satisfying auditory feedback that many typists appreciate.
The construction of both the Jammy and Keylin relies heavily on the inherent properties of nylon, particularly its ability to absorb sound. Given that both switches employ identical materials, users can expect a similar quality in sound dampening and tactile feedback. This uniformity promotes consistency in the user's experience when switching between these two models, as they will both exhibit a reduced sharpness in sound, resulting in a more pleasing and muted auditory response. Since the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and overall feel while the top housing impacts the sound upon key release, the integration of nylon materials enhances both aspects in a complimentary manner across both models.
However, while the materials might be identical, the unique designs and constructions of the switches may still elicit subtle differences in performance and feel. Each switch design might incorporate variations that can influence factors such as actuation force, travel distance, or even the tactile feedback experienced upon pressing the keys. Therefore, while users may experience similar sound profiles and dampened acoustics from both the Jammy and the Keylin due to their nylon housings, the nuances in their construction may create distinct differences in the overall typing experience. Ultimately, users will enjoy an overlapping auditory experience but should also consider how each switch's unique engineering might cater to personal preferences in typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces, which may influence user preference based on typing style and comfort. The Jammy features an actuation force of 57 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, categorizing it as a medium-force switch. In contrast, the Keylin alternates with a much lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, indicating it is a light switch. This stark difference suggests that users who favor a lighter touch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions may prefer the Keylin, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel and potentially fatigue less might lean towards the Jammy. Ultimately, the selection between these two switches hinges on individual preference for tactile response and typing comfort, with the Keylin being the lighter option and the Jammy being the heavier one.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Jammy linear switch is 3.7 mm, while the Keygeek Keylin linear switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Jammy provides a bit more depth in each keystroke compared to the Keylin, which may appeal to those who enjoy a heartier feel when typing. Conversely, the Keylin's shorter travel distance could benefit gamers or those seeking quicker response times, reflecting the contemporary trend towards more responsive switches. Ultimately, if you prefer a deeper keystroke, the Jammy is the better choice, whereas the Keylin might better suit those who favor a quicker action.
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 Keygeek Keylin has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keylin 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
The sound produced by the HMX Jammy linear switch is characterized by a clacky quality, which results in a sharp and snappy audio feedback upon activation. This crisp, bright, and percussive sound can add a lively auditory element to your typing experience, making it more engaging for users who appreciate that kind of feedback. In contrast, the Keygeek Keylin linear switch does not have a specific sound profile detailed, indicating that its acoustic characteristics may remain a mystery. However, sound can greatly differ based on the keyboard used and the keycap selection, so that aspect may also play a significant role in how the Keylin switch sounds in practice.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Jammy switch offers a delightful combination of bounciness and polished smoothness. The bouncy characteristic provides an elastic feedback sensation, allowing for an enjoyable rebounding effect when keys are pressed. This lively feedback can make typing feel more dynamic and responsive. Additionally, the polished nature of the Jammy switch ensures a sleek and refined typing experience due to reduced friction, largely attributed to the materials used and possible factory lubing. Unfortunately, the Keylin switch lacks a detailed description of its tactile feel, leaving its characteristics in this regard unknown.
In conclusion, while the HMX Jammy linear switch delivers a distinct sound profile and a satisfying tactile experience, the Keygeek Keylin linear switch remains less defined in terms of both sound and feel. If you gravitate toward sounds that are crisp and engaging, the Jammy might be your go-to switch. However, if you prefer an element of mystery and potential discovery in your typing experience, the Keylin may still offer a comparable typing feel, although its exact qualities are yet to be revealed. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on personal preferences regarding sound and tactile feedback, as well as the specific keyboard and keycap combinations utilized.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you enjoy a medium actuation force with a distinct, clacky sound profile that adds character to your typing experience, the Jammy switches might be the right fit for you. Their bouncy feel can provide a lively, responsive sensation that many typists find exhilarating. This makes them particularly suitable for those who appreciate a bit of feedback and prefer a slightly heavier keypress that contributes to a satisfying and engaged typing experience. On the other hand, if you favor lighter key presses that offer exceptional smoothness and a more refined acoustic performance, the Keylin switches would be an ideal choice. Their softer actuation is perfect for long periods of typing where fatigue is a concern, and their premium design ensures a very smooth travel with a subtle sound profile. Ultimately, assess your typing style, whether you lean towards a more tactile experience or a smooth and silent one, to determine which switch will enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
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