HMX Jammy vs. TKC Kiwi
An in-depth look at the HMX Jammy and the TKC Kiwi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the HMX Jammy and the TKC Kiwi. The Jammy is a linear switch known for its softer nylon housing and medium-weight feel, providing a typing experience that is both muted and deeply satisfying. On the other hand, the Kiwi is a tactile switch designed to enhance typing with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, offering a snappy sound profile that immerses you in your typing experience. While the Jammy excels in providing a smooth and satisfying typing experience, the Kiwi stands out for its tactile feedback and immersive sound profile. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Jammy and the TKC Kiwi both play a significant role in the sound profile of the switches. The Jammy's nylon top and bottom housing offer a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Kiwi's UHWMPE top and bottom housing provide a very bright sound signature, producing resonant clacks when typing on switches with such housings. While both housing materials contribute to the overall sound profile, they offer distinct auditory experiences to the user.
Despite their different materials, the top and bottom housings of the Jammy and Kiwi switches have a similar impact on the overall typing experience. The bottom housing of each switch influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. This means that while the Jammy's nylon housing may offer a deeper sound profile when typing, the Kiwi's UHWMPE housing may provide a brighter sound signature upon key release. Both switches provide unique typing experiences based on the combination of their top and bottom housing materials.
In conclusion, the HMX Jammy and TKC Kiwi showcase the impact of housing materials on the sound profile of mechanical switches. While the Jammy's nylon housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, the Kiwi's UHWMPE housing offers a brighter and resonant typing experience. The distinction between the top and bottom housing materials highlights how each part of the switch contributes differently to the overall sound profile. Whether it's the softer nylon of the Jammy or the newer UHWMPE of the Kiwi, both switches provide a unique auditory experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Jammy linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, the differences are quite clear. The Jammy has a higher actuation force of 57 grams compared to the Kiwi's 43 grams, making the Kiwi the lighter of the two. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Jammy requires 63 grams, while the Kiwi comes in heavier at 67 grams, making the Kiwi the heavier option. This means that the Jammy provides a slightly lighter typing experience overall, while the Kiwi offers a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, making them versatile options depending on individual preferences. In either case, users can expect similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces within each switch's range.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the HMX Jammy linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, it is clear that the Jammy has a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm compared to the Kiwi's 4 mm. The difference may seem minimal, but it can have a noticeable impact on typing or gaming experience. The Jammy's shorter travel distance may appeal to those seeking a faster response time, particularly gamers, while the Kiwi's slightly longer travel distance might provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
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 TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 per 10 switches.
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 HMX Jammy linear switch offers a muted and deeply satisfying typing experience due to its softer nylon housing. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch is described as having a low-pitched sound profile, which gives it a bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches aim to provide an immersive typing experience, with the Jammy offering a softer sound and the Kiwi delivering a snappy and satisfyingly audible keystroke. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the HMX Jammy linear switch's tactile qualities are not explicitly described, while the TKC Kiwi tactile switch is known for its stepped and accented tactile feedback. The stepped feel of the Kiwi switch provides a two-stage tactile experience, offering a moderate amount of tactility without being overwhelming. Additionally, the Kiwi switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and effortless key travel. The Jammy switch's feel may also offer a satisfying typing experience, but without specific descriptors, it may not provide the same level of tactile feedback as the Kiwi.
Overall, the HMX Jammy linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Jammy switch provides a softer and possibly more muted sound compared to the low-pitched and snappy sound of the Kiwi switch. While the feel of the Jammy switch may offer a different tactile experience, the stepped, accented, and polished qualities of the Kiwi switch make it a standout option for those seeking a more pronounced tactile typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Jammy linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force and typing experience. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force, the Jammy with 63 grams may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, the Kiwi with 67 grams may be a better fit. If you enjoy a muted typing experience with a soft nylon housing, the Jammy is a great option. For those seeking a tactile switch with a noticeable bump at the top of each key press and a snappy sound profile, the Kiwi is a solid choice. Ultimately, the decision between the Jammy and the Kiwi comes down to personal preference in bottom out force, typing experience, and sound profile.
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