HMX Jammy vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the HMX Jammy and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Jammy and Gateron Melodic are two options that offer unique typing experiences. The Jammy, a linear switch, is best known for its softer nylon housings and medium-weight feel that provides a muted yet deeply satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Melodic, a clicky switch, reinvigorates the category with features such as smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, ensuring users can enjoy the classic clicky sound and tactile feedback with added smoothness. While the Jammy offers a more muted typing experience, the Melodic provides a more invigorating and crunchy feel. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Jammy and the Gateron Melodic both focus on using different materials for their housing to create unique sound profiles. The Jammy utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Melodic features a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While the Jammy's nylon top housing creates a duller and rounder sound, the Melodic's polycarbonate top housing offers a more clear and resonant tone. Overall, the choice between the two materials will depend on the type of sound profile a user prefers.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the HMX Jammy and Gateron Melodic opt for nylon material. This choice allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to their respective top housings. The nylon bottom housing in both switches absorbs more sound than harder plastics, contributing to a duller and rounder sound overall. This consistency in material for the bottom housing of both switches ensures a cohesive sound experience when typing on the keys.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall sound of the switches, it is evident that each material brings distinct qualities to the typing experience. The bottom housing has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities between the two housings allows for a balanced sound profile that is a result of the combination of both materials. Whether it is the nylon top housing of the Jammy or the polycarbonate top housing of the Melodic, users can expect a unique sound experience tailored to their preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch differ slightly in terms of weight. The Jammy has an actuation force of 57 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Melodic, which has an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range of force required. The Jammy provides a more consistent typing experience with a slightly heavier bottom out force, while the Melodic offers a lighter actuation force. Depending on personal preference, some may appreciate the lighter feel of the Melodic for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the stronger push feel of the Jammy for a more substantial typing experience. In general, lighter weights can allow for longer periods of typing, while heavier weights can provide a more satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Jammy linear switch is 3.7 mm, while the Gateron Melodic clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Melodic switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Jammy switch. Typically, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth when typing. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the kind of typing experience you are looking for. Both switches offer unique advantages, so consider your typing style and preferences before making a decision.
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 Gateron Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 HMX Jammy linear switch is known for its muted and deeply satisfying typing experience, characterized by a softer nylon housing. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offers a classic clicky sound and tactile feedback enhanced by smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems.
When it comes to sound, the Jammy switch's specific characteristics are unknown. In contrast, the Melodic switch is described as resonant and crunchy, providing a higher-pitched sound profile with a clean and sharp sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves.
In terms of feel, the Jammy switch's specific qualities are also unknown. On the other hand, the Melodic switch is described as buttery and invigorating, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with seamless typing sensation and pronounced feedback.
Overall, the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offer distinct typing experiences based on their sound and feel characteristics. While the Jammy switch provides a muted and deeply satisfying typing experience, the Melodic switch delivers a classic clicky sound with enhanced smoothness. Both switches cater to different preferences, so users can choose according to their desired sound and feel preferences to elevate their typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the HMX Jammy linear switch or the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a muted and deeply satisfying typing experience with medium bottom out force, the Jammy may be the perfect match for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy the classic clicky sound and tactile feedback of a switch infused with smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, the Melodic could be the ideal choice. Think about whether you prefer a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience or a crisp and crunchy sound profile, as well as whether you enjoy a smooth and fluid keystroke or a snappy and reactive feel. Consider these factors when making your decision to ensure you end up with the perfect switch for your needs.
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