HMX Jammy vs. Cherry MX Black
An in-depth look at the HMX Jammy and the Cherry MX Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Jammy and the Cherry MX Black mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches but offer slightly different typing experiences. The HMX Jammy stands out with its softer and glittery nylon housings, providing a typing experience that is muted yet deeply satisfying. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black switches are characterized by Cherry's Hyperglide tooling, offering a classic textured smoothness and a deep sound profile when typing. The Jammy switch is medium-weight, while the MX Black switch is stiff. Both switches have their strengths and appeal to different preferences. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Jammy and the Cherry MX Black, both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound better than harder plastics. The softer nature of the nylon creates a duller and rounder sound, enhancing the overall typing experience for users of both switches.
Despite both switches using nylon for their housing materials, there may be subtle differences in the sound and feel of each due to variations in manufacturing processes or design. The qualities of the bottom housing, such as impact on bottom-out sound and feel, will play a significant role when pressing down on the switch. Conversely, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. These nuances in the design and construction of the switches can provide users with slightly different typing experiences, even when utilizing the same material for the housing.
Overall, the similarities in housing materials between the HMX Jammy and Cherry MX Black result in comparable sound profiles and typing experiences for users. Both switches offer the benefits of nylon housing, including a deeper and fuller sound when typing, thanks to its sound-absorbing properties. While there may be slight variations in the sound and feel of each switch due to the distribution of qualities between the top and bottom housing, users can expect a similar level of typing satisfaction from both the HMX Jammy and Cherry MX Black.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, it becomes evident that there are notable differences between the two. The HMX Jammy has an actuation force of 57 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, both of which fall under a medium weight category. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black switch has a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a significantly heavier bottom out force of 80 grams. This makes the Cherry MX Black switch a heavier option compared to the Jammy. The weight of a switch affects the typing experience, with lighter switches being preferred for longer typing sessions and gaming, while heavier switches provide a more substantial push feel. Therefore, based on the weight of the actuation and bottom out forces, the HMX Jammy would be considered the lighter option while the Cherry MX Black would be the heavier option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on the individual's preference for typing feel and force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The HMX Jammy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, which is shorter than the Cherry MX Black linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The slightly shorter travel distance of the Jammy switch may appeal to gamers looking for a faster response time, while the slightly longer travel distance of the MX Black switch may provide a more satisfying depth when pressing down on a key. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Jammy being on the shorter end and the MX Black being closer to the average. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Jammy linear switch offers a unique experience with its softer and muted typing sound. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black linear switch provides a low-pitched sound profile that is deep and bass-heavy. Both switches offer a satisfying auditory feedback, but the Jammy switch may be preferred for those looking for a quieter typing experience.
In terms of feel, the HMX Jammy linear switch provides a smooth typing experience within its medium-weight housing. On the contrary, the Cherry MX Black linear switch is known for its textured feel due to Cherry's Hyperglide tooling, which adds a subtle friction to the typing action. Additionally, the MX Black switch is stiffer compared to the Jammy switch, requiring more force to actuate and bottom-out. Depending on personal preference, users may find the textured feel of the Cherry MX Black switch more comfortable or the smoother feel of the HMX Jammy switch more desirable.
Overall, the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Jammy switch provides a quieter typing experience with its softer sound profile and smoother feel, the MX Black switch offers a deeper sound with a textured and stiffer typing action. Depending on individual preferences, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience, and users can expect similar results in terms of reliability and performance from both options.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a softer and glittery typing feel with medium bottom out force, the Jammy switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a classic textured smoothness with a heavier bottom out force and a low-pitched sound profile, the Cherry MX Black switch might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you prioritize typing feel or sound profile in your mechanical keyboard. Choose the switch that aligns with your personal preferences for a satisfying typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
