HMX Jammy vs. Gateron Oil King (V2)
An in-depth look at the HMX Jammy and the Gateron Oil King (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Jammy and the Gateron Oil King mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, there are distinct characteristics that set them apart. The HMX Jammy is best known for its softer and glittery nylon housings, providing a medium-weight typing experience that is both muted and deeply satisfying. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King stands out for its buttery smoothness and sound profile reminiscent of snapping a dark chocolate bar. The Oil King is categorized as low-pitched, creamy, silky, bassy, buttery, and polished, offering a unique typing experience. If you are looking for a quieter and softer typing experience, the HMX Jammy may be the better choice. However, if you prefer a smoother and more luxurious feel, the Gateron Oil King could be the ideal 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
55g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Jammy and the Gateron Oil King switches both feature a nylon top housing. This material allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile while typing, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, both switches offer a duller and rounder sound that can be satisfying to typists looking for a quieter typing experience.
However, the bottom housing of the two switches differs, with the Jammy featuring a nylon bottom housing while the Oil King utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend bottom housing. The Jammy's nylon bottom housing contributes to the overall sound and feel of the switch, adding to the depth and fullness of the typing experience. On the other hand, the Oil King's INK blend bottom housing offers a more pointed and high-pitched sound profile, creating a unique and satisfying "clacky" sound that some users may prefer over a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of overall typing experience, the housing materials of the HMX Jammy and the Gateron Oil King switches play a significant role in shaping the sound and feel of each key press. While both switches feature a nylon top housing that produces a deep and full sound profile, the differences in their bottom housings provide distinct typing experiences. The Jammy offers a softer and more absorbent bottom housing that contributes to a duller and rounder sound, while the Oil King's INK blend bottom housing creates a sharper and more clacky sound that may appeal to users looking for a unique typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preference for sound and feel.
Weight
The HMX Jammy linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 57 grams compared to the Gateron Oil King linear switch's 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Jammy requires 63 grams while the Oil King needs 65 grams, making the Oil King the heavier of the two switches. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Jammy for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons, while those who prefer a more substantial push feel may opt for the Oil King for a more pronounced typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, the HMX Jammy has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Gateron Oil King has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Oil King the longer option between the two. In general, the shorter travel distance of the Jammy may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Oil King may provide a more satisfying depth to the key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences 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 Gateron Oil King (V2) comes in at $6.50 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
In terms of sound, the HMX Jammy linear switch is best known for its muted and deeply satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Oil King linear switch is praised for its low-pitched and bassy sound profile, akin to the snap of a dark chocolate bar. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience, but the Jammy may provide a quieter and more subdued sound compared to the richer tones of the Oil King. Additionally, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Jammy linear switch is described to offer a softer typing experience with glittery nylon housings, providing a medium-weight feel that users find satisfying. In contrast, the Gateron Oil King linear switch is often described as creamy, silky, buttery, and polished, delivering a smooth and effortless keystroke sensation. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience, with the Oil King potentially offering a more luxurious and refined feel compared to the Jammy. The application of lubricant in the Oil King switch may contribute to its smoothness and glide-like feel.
Overall, the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences. While the Jammy may appeal to those seeking a quieter typing experience with a softer touch, the Oil King stands out for its smooth and buttery feel with a rich sound profile. Whether you choose the Jammy or the Oil King, both switches are designed to enhance your typing sessions and provide a satisfying tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences in sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, consider the bottom out force, sound profile, and feel that best suits your typing preferences. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and a more muted typing experience, the Jammy switch with its glittery nylon housing may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a smoother, buttery typing sensation, the Oil King switch with its creamy and silky feel may be more appealing. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and what attributes are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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