HMX Jammy vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the HMX Jammy and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Jammy and TTC Neptune mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to note that both switches offer unique typing experiences. The Jammy, a linear switch, stands out with its softer nylon housings and medium weight, providing a muted yet deeply satisfying typing sensation. On the other hand, the Neptune, also a linear switch, showcases an innovative internal structure that combines a smooth, frictionless glide with a springy resistance, akin to chewy delights like mochi or tapioca pearls. The ultralight Neptune offers swift typing with a muted sound signature for a refined ambiance. While the Jammy excels in providing a satisfying typing experience, the Neptune's unique "matte" feel and effortless typing make it an enticing option. 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
41g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Jammy and the TTC Neptune differ in terms of the top and bottom housings. The Jammy utilizes nylon for its top housing, while the Neptune uses POM. Nylon provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, POM in the Neptune results in a unique sound profile on the deeper side that is relatively more muted. This contrast in materials gives each switch a distinct auditory experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, the HMX Jammy features nylon while the TTC Neptune utilizes polycarbonate. Nylon in the Jammy contributes to a softer, fuller sound profile that is absorbed more than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, polycarbonate in the Neptune produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. The aesthetic aspect also comes into play with polycarbonate, as its translucency allows for a switch to be used with RGB lighting, adding a visual element to the auditory experience.
While the housing materials of the HMX Jammy and TTC Neptune differ in their top and bottom housings, they both have unique qualities that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite their differences, both switches provide a distinct typing experience based on the specific qualities of their housing materials, whether it be the deeper and fuller sound of nylon in the Jammy or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Neptune.
Weight
The HMX Jammy linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch have noticeable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Jammy has a higher actuation force of 57 grams and a higher bottom out force of 63 grams, making it a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Neptune has a lower actuation force of 41 grams and a lower bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as a lighter switch. The Jammy provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, while the Neptune offers a lighter touch that may be preferable for longer typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference, with the Jammy offering a heavier feel and the Neptune providing a lighter touch for typing and gaming needs.
Travel distance
The HMX Jammy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the TTC Neptune linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm option. Gamers may prefer the Jammy for its slightly shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times during gameplay. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial key press may prefer the Neptune due to its slightly longer travel distance. Overall, the difference of 0.1 mm between the two switches may not be significant, and both switches will likely provide similar results in terms of key activation 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 TTC Neptune has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Neptune for $5.09.
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 quieter and more muted typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune linear switch produces a low-pitched, subdued sound with a thocky element to it, making each keystroke a unique auditory pleasure. Depending on the user's preference for sound, the Jammy provides a softer and more understated typing noise, while the Neptune offers a deeper and more satisfying clack.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Jammy switch is known for its medium-weight feel, providing a satisfying and muted typing sensation. In comparison, the TTC Neptune switch offers a buttery and frictionless typing experience, boasting a unique blend of smoothness and springy resistance that sets it apart in the switch landscape. Both switches aim to provide a pleasurable typing experience, with the Jammy focusing on a balanced and satisfying feel, and the Neptune offering a more fluid and effortless keystroke sensation.
Overall, the HMX Jammy and TTC Neptune linear switches each have their own distinct qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Jammy excels in providing a softer and more muted typing experience, perfect for those looking for a quieter switch. On the other hand, the Neptune stands out with its low-pitched, thocky sound and buttery, frictionless feel, ideal for users seeking a more textured and unique typing sensation. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience that caters to a variety of preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. Ultimately, users can expect similar results in terms of quality and performance from both switches, with the choice coming down to individual preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Jammy linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a medium-weight switch with a muted and deeply satisfying typing experience, then the Jammy switch with its 63-gram bottom out force might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer an ultralight switch that offers a smooth, frictionless glide and a springy resistance akin to chewy delights, the TTC Neptune with its 50-gram bottom out force and unique matte feel might be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and sound profile.
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