HMX Jammy vs. KTT Matcha
An in-depth look at the HMX Jammy and the KTT Matcha switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Jammy and the KTT Matcha offer distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Jammy, a linear switch, is best known for its softer nylon housings and medium weight, providing a typing experience that is both muted and deeply satisfying. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha, a tactile switch, stands out for its comfortable and snappy tactility, coupled with a clean bottom-out sound thanks to its long pole stem. While the Jammy offers a more subdued typing experience, the Matcha provides a more pronounced tactile feedback. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Jammy and the KTT Matcha provide unique characteristics to the typing experience. The Jammy's nylon housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Matcha's polycarbonate housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, attributed to its stiffer plastic that creates a clear and resonant sound profile. This difference in sound profiles can greatly impact the typing feel and overall satisfaction for users with different preferences.
While both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, the qualities of each material are split between the two components. The bottom housing, whether nylon or polycarbonate, has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. Conversely, the top housing plays a critical role in the sound produced when a key is released, highlighting the importance of both components in creating the overall typing experience. This division of characteristics enhances the versatility and customization options for users seeking specific sound profiles or tactile feedback in their mechanical keyboards.
In terms of aesthetics, the choice of housing material also plays a role in the appearance of the switch. While nylon offers a classic look with its opaque finish, polycarbonate's translucency allows for RGB lighting to shine through, creating a visually appealing effect. The decision between nylon and polycarbonate top and bottom housings may not only impact the typing experience but also contribute to the overall design and aesthetics of the keyboard, providing users with a range of options to suit their preferences and style. Ultimately, whether opting for the Jammy or the Matcha, users can expect a tailored typing experience based on their desired sound profile and visual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Jammy linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, we find that the Jammy has a heavier actuation force at 57 grams compared to the Matcha's lighter force of 40 grams. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Jammy is also heavier at 63 grams, while the Matcha bottoms out at 45 grams. This means that the Jammy provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, which some users may prefer for a more tactile typing feedback. On the other hand, the Matcha offers a lighter touch, allowing users to type for longer periods without as much fatigue. Both switches provide a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences.
Travel distance
The HMX Jammy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the KTT Matcha tactile switch. This means that the Jammy linear switch offers a slightly quicker key press response compared to the Matcha tactile switch. Gamers who prioritize speed and responsiveness may prefer the Jammy switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press feel may lean towards the Matcha switch. Both switches fall within the range of modern travel distances, with the Matcha being slightly on the longer side and the Jammy being slightly on the shorter side. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key travel distance.
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 Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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 typing experience that is both muted and deeply satisfying due to its softer nylon housings. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha tactile switch is described as producing a clacky sound, which is sharp, snappy, and percussive. The sound produced by each switch is also influenced by external factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the HMX Jammy linear switch does not have specific descriptors provided. In contrast, the KTT Matcha tactile switch is described as being stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle. This means that typing on the Matcha switch will provide a tactile experience with distinct stages, responsive feedback, a medium amount of tactility, lightweight actuation force, and gentle resistance.
Overall, while the HMX Jammy linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch offer different sound profiles and tactile experiences, they both provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you are looking for a typing experience that is muted and deeply satisfying, the Jammy switch may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a keyboard switch with a snappy and percussive sound, along with a stepped, accented feel that is light and responsive, then the Matcha switch would be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a typing experience that is muted and deeply satisfying, you may want to choose the HMX Jammy linear switch with its medium bottom out force of 63 grams. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch that offers a comfortable and snappy tactility, along with a clean bottom-out sound, the KTT Matcha tactile switch with its lighter bottom out force of 45 grams would be a great option. Consider your preferences for sound, feel, and bottom out force when deciding between these two switches. Ultimately, the choice between HMX Jammy and KTT Matcha will depend on your personal typing style and preferences.
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