HMX Jammy vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the HMX Jammy and the KTT Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the HMX Jammy, a linear switch, and the KTT Orange, also a linear switch. The HMX Jammy is best known for its softer and glittery nylon housing, providing a typing experience that is both muted and deeply satisfying. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switches are distinguished by their 22mm long spring which offers a bouncy type feel, along with a polycarbonate milky top housing and a vivid orange nylon bottom housing for a slick and frictionless typing experience. While the Jammy offers a medium-weight switch, the Orange is described as 'bouncy', 'frictionless', and 'low-pitched'. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style - 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
46g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
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
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The HMX Jammy and KTT Orange both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. 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. On the other hand, the Orange utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile thanks to its stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. While the Jammy and Orange have different housing materials, they both aim to enhance the overall typing experience by providing distinct sound profiles based on their respective materials.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the HMX Jammy and KTT Orange, both switches share the quality of providing a unique and satisfying sound profile. The nylon top housing of the Jammy creates a duller and rounder sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Orange produces a crisper and sharper sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Jammy contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Orange delivers a more clear and resonant sound. Ultimately, both switches prioritize sound quality by utilizing materials that enhance the typing experience for users.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the HMX Jammy and KTT Orange contribute to their distinct sound profiles, the differences in materials provide a varied typing experience. The properties of nylon in the Jammy's housing result in a softer and more absorbing sound, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. In contrast, the stiffer polycarbonate material in the Orange's housing leads to a clearer and more resonant sound, influencing the sound when releasing a key. Overall, the choice of housing materials in both switches plays a crucial role in shaping the sound profile and tactile feedback, catering to different preferences of users seeking a unique typing experience.
Weight
The HMX Jammy linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 57 grams compared to the KTT Orange linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 46 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Jammy requires 63 grams compared to the Orange's 53 grams. This makes the KTT Orange switch overall lighter in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the HMX Jammy switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the KTT Orange switch would be the better option. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the heavier actuation and bottom out force of the HMX Jammy switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Jammy linear switch is 3.7 mm, while the KTT Orange linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of modern, shorter travel distances that are popular for their faster response times, particularly favored by gamers. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not have a significant impact on the user experience, as both are considered relatively short. However, if you prefer a slightly deeper keypress feel, the HMX Jammy with its 3.7 mm travel distance may be the better choice for you. Conversely, if you prefer a slightly shallower keypress feel for quick and precise typing or gaming, the KTT Orange with its 3.5 mm travel distance could be the preferable option. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, providing a comfortable typing or gaming experience tailored to individual preferences.
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 KTT Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $4.15.
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 comparing the sound of the HMX Jammy linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, we find that the Jammy offers a muted and deeply satisfying sound profile, while the Orange provides a low-pitched tone that is more bass-heavy and mellow. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can enhance the typing experience, depending on personal preference and additional factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the HMX Jammy switch is known for its softer typing experience with medium-weight actuation, providing a comfortable yet tactile response. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch offers a bouncy and frictionless feel, creating a spring-like rebound and smooth key travel. Both switches offer distinct tactile feedback that can cater to different typing preferences, from a softer touch to a more elastic and fluid typing experience.
Overall, both the HMX Jammy linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch bring unique qualities to the table for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Jammy offers a softer and muted typing experience, the Orange provides a bouncy and frictionless feel. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Experimenting with different switches on various keyboards can help you determine which one suits your typing style and preferences the best.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the HMX Jammy linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you prioritize a smooth and muted typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the Jammy switch would be a great option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy and frictionless typing experience with a slightly lighter bottom out force, the Orange switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what specific characteristics and sensations you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
