HMX Jammy vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the HMX Jammy and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) 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 and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), both of which are linear switches. The HMX Jammy stands out for its softer and glittery nylon housings, offering a medium-weight typing experience that is both muted and deeply satisfying. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro switches are known for their smooth and affordable typing experience, with buttery smooth keystrokes that produce a pleasing, low-pitched "thock" sound. While the Jammy may appeal to those looking for a more tactile typing experience, the Milky Red Pro switches are ideal for those seeking a budget-friendly option with a smooth and satisfying 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
52g
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the HMX Jammy and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) feature nylon top and bottom housings, making them quite similar in terms of material composition. The use of nylon in both switches results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. This creates a duller and rounder sound when typing on either switch, giving users a unique tactile and auditory experience with each keystroke.
Although both switches share the same nylon housing materials, the differences in their design may affect the overall typing experience. In the Jammy, the qualities of the nylon housing are evenly distributed between the top and bottom of the switch, impacting both the sound and feel of pressing down and releasing a key. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) may have a variation in how the nylon housing affects the typing experience, potentially leading to subtle differences in sound and feel when using the switch.
Despite any potential differences in design, the nylon housing of both the HMX Jammy and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) ultimately contribute to their overall typing performance. The softer nature of nylon plastic allows for a more cushioned typing experience, reducing the harshness of key presses and creating a more comfortable feel for long typing sessions. Whether using the Jammy or the Milky Red Pro (KS-3), users can expect a similar level of sound absorption and tactile feedback due to the shared nylon housing material.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it is evident that the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is lighter in both respects. The Jammy has a slightly heavier actuation force of 57 grams compared to the Milky Red Pro's 45 grams, making the Jammy better suited for those who prefer a bit more resistance when typing. Additionally, the Jammy also has a higher bottom out force of 63 grams compared to the Milky Red Pro's 52 grams, providing a firmer feel when fully pressing the keys. However, both switches fall into the medium weight category, so overall, users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience, with the Milky Red Pro offering a slightly lighter touch compared to the Jammy. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding typing force and resistance.
Travel distance
The HMX Jammy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, making it shorter than the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both of these switches fall within the mid-range of travel distances, with the Jammy being slightly shorter than the Milky Red Pro. If you are looking for a switch with a quicker response time, the Jammy may be the better option due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feel when typing, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) with its longer travel distance may be a more suitable choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) for $2.30.
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 unique experience with a softer and muted sound profile due to its nylon housings, providing a satisfying typing experience without being too loud or harsh. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is known for its smooth keystrokes that produce a low-pitched "thock" sound, creating a buttery smooth sound that is pleasing to the ears. The Jammy switch may be more subdued in its sound compared to the Milky Red Pro, which offers a richer and deeper sound during key presses.
In terms of feel, the HMX Jammy linear switch provides a typing experience that is described as soft and satisfying, making each keystroke feel deeply gratifying. The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, in contrast, offers a buttery smooth feel that is seamless, effortless, and uniform, providing a consistent and enjoyable typing sensation. Both switches offer a level of smoothness in their feel, with the Jammy switch leaning towards a softer and more satisfying feel, while the Milky Red Pro switch offers a buttery and uniform typing experience.
Overall, choosing between the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. If you prefer a softer and muted sound profile with a deeply satisfying typing experience, the Jammy switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a smooth and low-pitched "thock" sound paired with a buttery smooth typing feel, the Milky Red Pro switch would be more suitable. Both switches offer a high-quality typing experience, so you can expect similar results in terms of performance and satisfaction.
Conclusion
To sum up, when selecting between the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, you should consider the bottom out force and the typing experience you are looking for. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a typing experience that is both muted and deeply satisfying, the Jammy switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a smooth and affordable typing experience with a buttery smoothness and a low-pitched “thock” sound, then the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch would be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound.
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