HMX Jammy vs. Neo Lavender HE
An in-depth look at the HMX Jammy and the Neo Lavender HE 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 Neo Lavender HE stand out for their unique qualities and performance characteristics. The Jammy, recognized for its softer, glittery nylon housing, offers a medium-weight typing experience that is both muted and satisfying, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more subdued keystroke and a tactile but smooth feel. In contrast, the Neo Lavender HE boasts a clean, low sound, thanks to its innovative hall effect design, and is compatible with Wooting keyboards, appealing to users seeking a distinctive auditory profile and cutting-edge technology. Both switches cater to different preferences: whether you favor the understated comfort of the Jammy or the precise, magnetic responsiveness of the Lavender HE, each offers distinct advantages. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
57g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
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
16mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Jammy and the Neo Lavender HE both utilize nylon as their housing material for both the top and bottom portions of the switches, leading to a distinctly similar sound profile when typing. Nylon is prized in mechanical keyboard switches for its ability to absorb sound, which results in a deeper and fuller acoustic experience. As a relatively softer plastic, nylon not only dampens the noise produced when keys are pressed but also contributes to a rounder tonal quality compared to harder materials. This characteristic makes both the Jammy and the Lavender HE options particularly appealing for users seeking a typing experience that is quiet and pleasant.
Despite both keyboards being made from nylon, the nuances of sound produced can vary based on factors such as the switch design and key feel. Although they share the same material composition, each switch design may emphasize different aspects of the typing experience. For instance, if one switch has a different actuation force or spring design, the user may notice variations in feedback even if the sound profile appears similar. As the top housing primarily influences the sound produced when releasing a key, the impact of the nylon would still bring forth a dulled, enriched sound for both models.
However, since both the Jammy and Lavender HE employ identical nylon materials for their top and bottom housings, users can expect similar tonal characteristics in practice. This means that regardless of minor distinctions in the overall build or mechanics of the switches, the fundamental acoustic quality will remain consistent, yielding a full-bodied experience when typing. Thus, consumers looking for a switch that delivers a strikingly muted yet resonant sound profile will likely find satisfaction in either the Jammy or the Lavender HE, with minimal differences in their auditory performance attributable to the shared housing materials.
Weight
The HMX Jammy linear switch and the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Jammy switch requires an actuation force of 57 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, placing it in the medium range, while the Neo Lavender HE is considerably lighter, with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Consequently, the Lavender HE switch is better suited for those who prefer a lighter feel, facilitating longer typing sessions with reduced fatigue, making it an ideal choice for work or gaming environments. In contrast, the Jammy switch's heavier actuation and bottom out forces may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Overall, while both switches serve their unique preferences, the Jammy offers a firmer response compared to the more delicate touch of the Lavender HE.
Travel distance
The HMX Jammy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Jammy switch offers a shorter actuation distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times and a more responsive feel. On the other hand, the extra 0.1 mm of the Lavender HE switch might provide a more traditional keystroke experience that some users prefer, delivering a sense of depth that can feel more satisfying for typing tasks. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on individual preferences for responsiveness versus a hearty keystroke feel, with the Jammy being the shorter option and the Lavender HE offering a bit more length.
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 Neo Lavender HE comes in at $4.50 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
In terms of sound, the HMX Jammy linear switch produces a muted tone that fosters a more tranquil typing environment, making it suitable for both work and leisure. The nylon housings contribute to this softer sound profile, enhancing the overall acoustics of the keyboard. In contrast, the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch is characterized by a clean, low sound that differentiates it from many other magnetic switches. While the Jammy offers a subdued auditory experience, the Lavender HE provides a more pronounced yet still refined sound, allowing for a variety of acoustic environments depending on the typing scenario.
When it comes to feel, the Jammy switches offer a medium-weight experience that strikes a balance between providing enough resistance without feeling overly heavy. This makes for a smooth and satisfying typing experience, particularly for those who prefer a bit of heft in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Lavender HE switches, being hall effect switches, are likely to deliver a unique tactile feedback that elevates the typing experience though specific details on their feel aren't provided. Generally, hall effect switches can offer a distinct sensation and may appeal to users looking for an innovative typing experience.
In conclusion, both the HMX Jammy and Neo Lavender HE switches cater to specific preferences in their respective sound and feel characteristics. The Jammy's softer, more muted sound paired with its medium-weight feel makes it an appealing choice for those who desire a comfortable yet quiet typing experience. Conversely, the Lavender HE offers a clean sound that stands out while potentially providing a unique tactile response through hall sensing technology. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches can provide satisfactory typing experiences, but the choice ultimately hinges on whether you prioritize a softer acoustic profile or a more distinct tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, when considering whether to go for the HMX Jammy linear switch or the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences in typing experience. If you prefer a medium-weight switch that provides a slightly dampened sound and a deeply satisfying feel, the Jammy switch is likely the better choice for you. Its 63-gram bottom-out force can give you a more tactile feedback, making it suitable for both typing and gaming, especially if you enjoy a more conscientious keystroke. On the other hand, if you're looking for a lighter switch that offers a clean sound with a smooth typing experience, the Neo Lavender HE might fit your needs better. With its 50-gram bottom-out force, it provides a breezy feel that can enable quicker typing and reduced finger fatigue, making it an excellent option for lengthy typing sessions or fast-paced gaming. In summary, determine your priorities—whether it's the satisfying medium weight and subtle feel of the Jammy or the lightweight airy experience and cleaner sound of the Lavender HE—and choose the switch that best aligns with your keyboard style and usage needs.
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