HMX Jammy vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the HMX Jammy and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, you'll find distinct differences in their performance and feel. The Jammy is known for its softer, glittery nylon housings, offering a typing experience that is both muted and deeply satisfying. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown lacks specific standout features but provides a tactile bump that many typists prefer. If you prefer a smooth and consistent keystroke, the Jammy may be the right choice for you. However, if you enjoy a tactile bump for added feedback while typing, the Crystal Brown could be the better 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Jammy and the Outemu Crystal Brown, one major difference is in the top housing material used. The Jammy utilizes a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Crystal Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile thanks to its stiffer plastic composition. While both materials are designed to enhance the sound experience of typing on switches, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile.
On the other hand, the bottom housing materials of the Jammy and Crystal Brown switches are both made of nylon. This shared housing material results in a similar typing experience for both switches, producing a deep and full sound profile characteristic of the softer plastic material. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a duller and rounder sound when compared to switches made with harder plastics. Despite other differences between the switches, the shared use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a consistent sound profile when typing on either the Jammy or Crystal Brown switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches can significantly impact the sound and feel of typing on mechanical keyboards. While the Jammy's nylon housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Crystal Brown's polycarbonate housing offers a sharper and crisper sound experience. Understanding how different housing materials affect sound profiles can help users make informed decisions when selecting switches for their keyboards. Whether preferring the softer tones of nylon or the clear resonance of polycarbonate, there are options available to cater to individual preferences in sound and typing experience.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch reveals some key differences. The Jammy has a heavier actuation force of 57 grams compared to the Crystal Brown's lighter 45 grams. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Jammy is 63 grams, while the Crystal Brown bottoms out at 55 grams. The Jammy provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, whereas the Crystal Brown offers a lighter touch that may be more appealing for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, meaning that users can expect similar results in terms of overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for a lighter or heavier key feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Jammy linear switch is 3.7 mm, while the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of what is considered a standard travel distance, with the Crystal Brown being on the longer side. The Jammy's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for a faster response time, while the Crystal Brown may be preferred by those who like a more pronounced key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and key response.
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 Crystal Brown 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
In terms of sound, the HMX Jammy linear switch is often praised for its quiet and muted typing experience, thanks to the softer nylon housings which help dampen any potential noise. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch's sound profile is not as well-documented, but it is generally considered to be more audible due to the tactile bump in the switch mechanism. However, keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's build quality and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Jammy linear switch is known for its smooth keystrokes and medium weight, providing a typing experience that many find deeply satisfying. In contrast, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch offers a tactile bump that provides feedback to the typist upon actuation, adding a level of tactility to the typing experience. While the specific feel of the Crystal Brown switch may vary from person to person, it generally offers a slightly different sensation compared to the linear Jammy switch.
In conclusion, the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Jammy switch provides a quiet and smooth typing experience, while the Crystal Brown switch offers a more tactile feel with potentially more audible keystrokes. With this information in mind, depending on your personal preference for typing experience, you can choose between these two switches to achieve the desired result. Ultimately, both switches will offer high-quality performance, so you can expect similar levels of satisfaction regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a smooth and satisfying typing experience with a medium bottom out force, then the HMX Jammy linear switch would be a great choice for you. The glittery nylon housings add a unique touch to the switch and provide a muted typing sound. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and appreciate a tactile bump, then the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing style and preferences in terms of feel and sound.
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