HMX Jammy vs. KTT Lightning
An in-depth look at the HMX Jammy and the KTT Lightning switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the HMX Jammy, a linear switch, and the KTT Lightning, also a linear switch. The HMX Jammy is known for its softer and glittery nylon housings, offering a typing experience that is both muted and deeply satisfying. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning is favored for its approachable "speed" switches, making them ideal for situations where milliseconds can make a difference between victory and defeat. While the Jammy provides a medium-weight feel, the Lightning offers a slick type feel with a clacky 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Jammy and the KTT Lightning differ in terms of their top housing. The Jammy utilizes a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Lightning features a polycarbonate top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in top housing material ultimately affects the overall sound produced by the switches, catering to different preferences in sound quality.
On the other hand, both the Jammy and the Lightning share the same nylon bottom housing material. This material is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics. Therefore, despite the differences in their top housings, the switches will have similar attributes in terms of the sound profile generated by the bottom housing material. This consistency in the bottom housing material highlights the importance of the overall construction of the switches in determining the sound quality.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a significant role in shaping the sound profile and overall feel of typing on the keyboards. While the Jammy emphasizes a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon top and bottom housing, the Lightning leans towards a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing. Understanding the impact of housing materials on sound production is essential for users seeking a specific typing experience, whether it be a duller and rounder sound of nylon or a clearer and resonant sound of polycarbonate.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Jammy linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, it is evident that the Lightning is the lighter option. The Jammy has an actuation force of 57 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, making it a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Lightning boasts a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as a lighter switch. The difference in weight between the two switches can greatly impact the typing experience. Some users may prefer the Jammy for its slightly heavier feel, providing a more substantial typing experience, while others may opt for the Lightning for its lighter touch, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the HMX Jammy linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, we find that the Jammy has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Lightning has a travel distance of 3 mm. This means that the Jammy offers a slightly longer travel distance than the Lightning. In general, a shorter travel distance can provide faster response times, which may be preferred by gamers. On the other hand, a longer travel distance can offer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user. Both switches offer unique advantages, but the Lightning may be better suited for those seeking a slightly shorter travel distance, while the Jammy may be preferred by those looking for a bit more depth in their key presses.
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 KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41 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 is best known for offering a typing experience that is both muted and deeply satisfying due to its softer nylon housings. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning linear switch is described as producing a clacky, high-pitched, and chirpy sound profile. This difference in sound profile can be attributed to the material and design of the switches, as well as other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used. If you prefer a quieter typing experience, the Jammy switch may be more suitable, while the Lightning switch may appeal to those who enjoy a sharper and more percussive sound while typing.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Jammy linear switch's tactile experience is not explicitly described in the provided information. However, it is known for its medium-weight and satisfying typing experience. In comparison, the KTT Lightning switch is described as providing a slick type feel with a subtle and polished finish. This indicates that the Lightning switch offers a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and light resistance. Depending on personal preference, individuals may gravitate towards the gentle resistance of the Jammy switch or the sleek typing feel of the Lightning switch.
Overall, the HMX Jammy linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Jammy switch provides a muted and deeply satisfying typing experience with a medium-weight feel, while the Lightning switch delivers a clacky sound profile and a polished, smooth typing feel. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Jammy offering a quieter typing experience and the Lightning appealing to those who enjoy a sharper sound and sleek key travel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Jammy linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, typing experience, sound profile, and feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a typing experience that is both muted and deeply satisfying, the Jammy switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a light bottom out force and a switch that is perfect for fast-paced gaming scenarios where milliseconds matter, the Lightning switch could be the right fit. The Jammy offers a softer typing experience with a glittery housing, while the Lightning provides a slick feel with a clacky sound profile. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for typing feel, sound, and bottom out force.
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