HMX Jammy vs. Gateron New North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the HMX Jammy and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Jammy, a linear switch, with the Gateron New North Pole V2, also a linear switch, it's important to note the distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Jammy is best known for its softer nylon housings and medium-weight, offering a typing experience that is both muted and deeply satisfying. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 is renowned for its removal of the rubber dampener, providing a crisper typing experience while retaining the hallmark feature of a frictionless typing feel. Both switches have their unique qualities that may appeal to different users depending on their 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
50g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the HMX Jammy and the Gateron New North Pole V2 lies in the material used for their top and bottom housings. The Jammy features a nylon top and bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the New North Pole V2 utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in material composition directly impacts the overall typing experience, with the Jammy offering a softer and more muted sound compared to the crisper and clearer sound of the New North Pole V2.
Both the Jammy and the New North Pole V2 benefit from the unique qualities of their respective housing materials, whether it be nylon or polycarbonate. The nylon housing of the Jammy provides a classic typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound, ideal for those who prefer a quieter and more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the polycarbonate housing of the New North Pole V2 offers a more modern and sharp sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy a crisp and resonant typing experience. Despite these differences, both switches excel in providing a satisfying typing experience, albeit with distinct acoustic characteristics that cater to different preferences.
It is important to note that the material composition of the top and bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in determining the overall sound profile and typing feel. In the case of switches like the Jammy and the New North Pole V2, where the top and bottom housings differ in material, the qualities of each material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. This means that when pressing down on a key, you will feel the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the sound when releasing a key will be influenced by the top housing. This division of housing materials results in a nuanced typing experience that takes into account both the press and release of keys, enhancing the overall tactile feedback for the user.
Weight
Both the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch have medium actuation and bottom out forces. The Jammy requires 57 grams of force to actuate and 63 grams to bottom out, while the New North Pole V2 needs 50 grams to actuate and 62.5 grams to bottom out. The New North Pole V2 is lighter in terms of actuation force, but the Jammy is heavier when it comes to bottoming out. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the New North Pole V2 may be the better option, allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Jammy offers a slightly more substantial keystroke with its higher bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether the user prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Jammy linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch have different travel distances, with the Jammy having a travel distance of 3.7 mm and the New North Pole V2 having a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Jammy has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the New North Pole V2. Some users may prefer the Jammy for its quicker response time due to the shorter travel distance, especially for gaming purposes. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 may be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper keypress feel with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for travel distance 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 Gateron New North Pole V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the New North Pole V2 for $5.70.
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 is known for its muted and deeply satisfying typing experience, thanks to its softer nylon housings. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch offers a crisper typing experience without a rubber dampener, maintaining a frictionless feel that users appreciate. The sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by factors like the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the HMX Jammy linear switch provides a typing experience that is smooth and satisfying, with a medium-weight feel. In contrast, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is described as polished, creamy, and frictionless. This means that users can expect a sleek and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel when using the New North Pole V2 switches.
In conclusion, both the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Jammy switch delivers a muted and deeply satisfying typing experience, the New North Pole V2 provides a crisper feel without a rubber dampener, maintaining a frictionless typing experience that users have come to love. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can expect similar results in terms of overall satisfaction with either switch option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, consider your preference for typing feel and sound. If you prefer a softer, more muted typing experience with a touch of glitter, the Jammy may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a crisper typing experience with a frictionless feel, the New North Pole V2 may be more suitable. Additionally, if you enjoy a polished, creamy, or frictionless typing sensation, the New North Pole V2 offers these options. Ultimately, both switches have their strengths, so the choice comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are seeking.
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