HMX Jammy vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the HMX Jammy and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Jammy and the Outemu Cold Plum stand out as popular options for enthusiasts seeking a quality typing experience. The Jammy is a linear switch with a softer nylon housing, providing a muted yet deeply satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Cold Plum is also a linear switch, but offers a unique thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction for a smooth and satisfying keystroke. While both switches offer their own appeal, such as the Jammy's medium-weight feel and the Cold Plum's distinct sound, choosing between them will ultimately depend on individual 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
60g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the HMX Jammy and the Outemu Cold Plum utilize nylon as their top and bottom housing material, resulting in similar characteristics in terms of sound profile and overall typing experience. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound and create a deeper, fuller sound profile when typing. This soft plastic material helps to dampen the sound produced by the switch, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches made of harder plastics.
Despite both switches sharing the same nylon housing material, the way in which the top and bottom housings are designed can impact the overall typing experience. The bottom housing of a switch typically influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has more of an impact on the sound when a key is released. Therefore, differences in the design of the top and bottom housing between the HMX Jammy and the Outemu Cold Plum may result in variation in sound profiles and typing feel, even though they both use nylon as the housing material.
Ultimately, the choice between the HMX Jammy and the Outemu Cold Plum will come down to individual preferences for sound and typing feel. Both switches utilize nylon housing materials which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, making them appealing options for those seeking a more dampened typing experience. However, variations in the design of the top and bottom housings may result in subtle differences in sound and feel, allowing users to choose the switch that best suits their preferences.
Weight
The HMX Jammy linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch. The Jammy has an actuation force of 57 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, which is considered medium. In comparison, the Cold Plum has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it slightly heavier at medium-heavy. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Jammy, as it requires less force to activate the keys. On the other hand, users who enjoy a more substantial typing sensation may opt for the Cold Plum due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches provide a different typing experience, so choosing between the two would depend on personal preference for typing feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Jammy linear switch is 3.7 mm, while the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are preferred by gamers for faster response times. The Jammy provides a bit more depth with its 3.7 mm travel distance, making it a good choice for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. On the other hand, the Cold Plum's 3.3 mm travel distance may feel more abrupt to some users, but it offers a quicker response for those who prioritize speed. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance 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 Outemu Cold Plum comes in at $3.10 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Jammy linear switch is known for its soft and muted typing experience, while the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch delivers a thocky sound profile that is unique and satisfying. Both switches offer distinct auditory feedback that can enhance the typing experience, depending on personal preference and surrounding factors like keyboard construction and keycaps chosen.
Moving on to feel, the HMX Jammy linear switch provides a typing experience that is described as deeply satisfying, thanks to its medium-weight design and smooth keystrokes. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch offers a similar smooth keystroke but with a focus on providing a distinct and enjoyable typing feel. Both switches aim to provide a tactile and responsive typing experience that caters to different preferences and typing styles.
In conclusion, while the HMX Jammy linear switch focuses on a softer and more satisfying typing experience, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch delivers a unique thocky sound profile along with a smooth keystroke for an enjoyable typing feel. Depending on personal preference, both switches offer qualities that can enhance the overall mechanical keyboard experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to individual preference in sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when it comes to choosing between the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, it really comes down to your personal preferences. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a more muted typing experience, the Jammy switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a slightly heavier bottom out force and a unique thocky sound profile, the Cold Plum switch could be the way to go. Consider what qualities are most important to you in a keyboard switch and make your decision based on that. Happy typing!
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