HMX Jammy vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the HMX Jammy and the Cherry MX Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Jammy, a linear switch, and the Cherry MX Brown, a tactile switch, are two popular options to consider. The Jammy is known for its softer nylon housings and medium weight, providing a typing experience that is both satisfying and muted. On the other hand, the MX Brown is praised for its subtle tactility and light typing experience, offering gentle feedback with a subdued audio response. While both switches have their own unique characteristics and benefits, such as the Jammy's smooth typing feel and the MX Brown's subtle tactile feedback, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style when deciding between the two. 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
55g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Jammy and the Cherry MX Brown are both made of nylon, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This characteristic is consistent for both the top and bottom housing of these switches, highlighting the importance of housing materials in the overall typing experience.
While both the Jammy and the MX Brown utilize nylon for their housing materials, the impact of the top and bottom housing differs in how they contribute to the sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, providing a tactile experience for the user. On the other hand, the top housing influences the sound produced when a key is released, adding to the overall typing experience by creating a unique auditory feedback.
Overall, the similarities in housing materials between the HMX Jammy and the Cherry MX Brown result in a comparable typing experience for users. The use of nylon for both the top and bottom housing of these switches ensures a consistent sound profile that is deeper and fuller, enhancing the overall typing experience. While the impact of each housing material may vary in terms of sound and feel, the quality of nylon as a switch housing material remains a crucial factor in the performance and user satisfaction of these switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, it is evident that both switches fall within the medium weight category. The Jammy has a slightly heavier actuation force of 57 grams compared to the MX Brown's 45 grams, which makes the MX Brown the lighter of the two. In terms of bottom out force, the Jammy requires 63 grams of force while the MX Brown needs 55 grams, making the MX Brown the lighter option once again. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience for users who prefer a medium to medium-light actuation and bottom out force. Ultimately, those looking for a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Cherry MX Brown, while individuals who prefer a slightly heavier push feel might prefer the HMX Jammy.
Travel distance
The HMX Jammy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Cherry MX Brown switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the HMX Jammy. The difference may seem minimal, but it can impact the typing or gaming experience for some users. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the HMX Jammy with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a deeper keystroke feeling may opt for the Cherry MX Brown. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing or gaming style.
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 Brown 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
The HMX Jammy linear switch is known for its softer and more muted typing experience, offering a satisfying feel without the loud clicky noise often associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch provides a subtle tactility with gentle feedback, creating a relatively light typing experience. In terms of sound, the Jammy switch is known for its unique audio profile, while the MX Brown switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound during key presses. As for feel, the Jammy switch lacks a specific descriptor, while the MX Brown switch is characterized as textured, providing a noticeable friction when pressed. Overall, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Jammy switch being more muted and the MX Brown switch providing a gentle tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for sound and feel during typing.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force and typing experience. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, the 63-gram Jammy switch may be more suitable for you. The Jammy switch offers a muted typing experience with a glittery nylon housing for a unique feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, the 55-gram MX Brown switch might be a better choice. The MX Brown switch provides a gentle tactility with subtle audio feedback for a softer typing experience. Additionally, if you prefer a bassier and low-pitched sound profile during key presses, the MX Brown could be more appealing to you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you desire.
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