HMX Jammy vs. Bsun Olive
An in-depth look at the HMX Jammy and the Bsun Olive switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the HMX Jammy and the Bsun Olive mechanical keyboard switches, a noticeable distinction can be made in their typing experiences. The Jammy, a linear switch, is praised for its softer nylon housings and medium-weight design that offers a muted yet deeply satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Olive, a tactile switch, stands out with its all-POM housings that deliver a resonant sound and pronounced tactile feedback. The unique design and long pole stem of the Olive ensure a sharp bottom-out, providing a distinctive tactile feel and auditory experience during use. While the Jammy offers a softer and more muted typing experience, the Olive provides a more pronounced tactile feedback and sharper bottom-out. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Jammy and Bsun Olive both use different housing materials for their switches, with the Jammy utilizing nylon for both the top and bottom housing, while the Olive employs POM for the same. Nylon is known for its softer and more sound-absorbing properties, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. On the other hand, POM produces a more unique and muted sound, leaning towards the deeper end of the sound spectrum. Despite these differences, both materials offer a similar effect of creating a rounder and duller sound due to their respective absorption qualities.
One key difference between the two housing materials is the impact they have on the typing experience. The bottom housing, made of either nylon or POM, plays a bigger role in determining the bottom-out sound and overall feel of the switch when pressed. Nylon's softer nature gives a deeper and fuller typing experience, while POM's unique sound profile offers a more muted and satisfying sensation. On the other hand, the top housing material, whether it be nylon or POM, influences the sound produced when releasing a key, with nylon providing a deeper sound and POM offering a more muted tone.
In conclusion, while the HMX Jammy and Bsun Olive use different housing materials for their switches, they both aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with unique sound profiles. The nylon top and bottom housing of the Jammy deliver a deeper and fuller sound, while the POM top and bottom housing of the Olive create a more muted and unique typing sensation. Despite these distinctions, both materials contribute to a rounder and duller sound profile, ensuring a pleasant typing experience for users of either switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, it is clear that the Olive is the lighter of the two with an actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Jammy's 57 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Jammy is the lighter option at 63 grams while the Olive is slightly heavier at 65 grams. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, providing a balance between ease of typing and a more substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Olive, while those looking for a bit more resistance may opt for the Jammy. Ultimately, both switches offer a satisfactory typing experience depending on individual preferences.
Travel distance
The HMX Jammy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Bsun Olive tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Jammy has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Olive. The 0.3 mm may not seem like much, but it can make a noticeable difference in the feel of the switch. If you prefer a switch with a bit more depth and a slightly more pronounced press, the Jammy may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a quicker response and a shorter travel distance, the Olive may be the way to go. Both switches offer a different feel and experience when typing, and ultimately the choice between them comes down to personal preference. Regardless of the length difference, both switches provide a smooth typing experience that is sure to satisfy users looking for quality performance.
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 Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX Jammy linear switch offers a more muted and softer sound due to its nylon housings, providing a typing experience that is subtly satisfying. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive tactile switch delivers a resonant and deep sound with its all-POM housings, which sets it apart in terms of auditory feedback during use. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Jammy switch is known for its smooth typing experience, but the specific tactile qualities are unknown. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive tactile switch is distinguished by its pronounced tactile feedback, thanks to its unique design and long pole stem, offering a crisp and sharp bottom-out. The Olive switch provides an invigorating and sharp tactile sensation, creating a responsive and immersive typing experience. This makes it stand out in terms of tactile feedback compared to the Jammy linear switch.
Overall, the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a more muted and softer typing experience, the Jammy switch would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a switch with a deep, resonant sound and pronounced tactile feedback, the Olive switch would be more appealing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on your personal preference for sound and feel during typing.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when choosing between the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing feel and sound. If you enjoy a softer typing experience with a glittery nylon housing and a slightly muted sound, the Jammy switch with its medium bottom out force may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a more accentuated tactile feedback with a sharp bottom-out and a distinct resonant sound produced by an all-POM housing, the Olive switch with its medium-heavy bottom out force might be the better option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a typing experience that is deeply satisfying and muted (Jammy) or one that is pronounced and invigorating (Olive).
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