HMX Jammy vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the HMX Jammy and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch, you may be considering the HMX Jammy, a linear switch, or the Outemu Milk Blue, a clicky switch. The Jammy is praised for its softer nylon housings and medium weight, providing a satisfying yet muted typing experience. On the other hand, the Milk Blue offers a distinct clicky sound with each keystroke. If you value a quieter typing experience, the Jammy may be the way to go, while the Milk Blue may be more appealing if you enjoy the audible feedback of a clicky switch. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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 Milk Blue, it is clear that they both have nylon bottom housing. Both switches elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the relatively softer plastic absorbing more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. However, the top housing sets them apart significantly. The Jammy uses a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper sound profile compared to the Milk Blue's polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate in the Milk Blue's top housing allows for a more clear and resonant sound, ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency.
Furthermore, the contrast in housing materials extends to the performance of the switches. While both the HMX Jammy and the Outemu Milk Blue have similar nylon bottom housings, the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel may differ slightly due to other components in the switch. However, the top housing material plays a significant role in the overall sound experience when typing on these switches. The Jammy's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, whereas the Milk Blue's polycarbonate top housing delivers a sharper and crisper sound profile. This difference in top housing material reflects in the keypress and release, highlighting the importance of housing materials in switch design.
Overall, the choice between the HMX Jammy and the Outemu Milk Blue ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. Both switches offer a deep and full sound due to their nylon bottom housing, but the distinct difference lies in their top housings. The Jammy's nylon top housing creates a more mellow and round sound, while the Milk Blue's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and more resonant sound. Whether one prefers a deeper sound profile or a crisper sound with RGB compatibility, the housing materials of these switches play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience.
Weight
The HMX Jammy linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch. The Jammy requires 57 grams of force to actuate and 63 grams to bottom out, while the Milk Blue only needs 50 grams to actuate. The bottom out force for the Milk Blue is unknown. In terms of weight, the Milk Blue is lighter, which may appeal to those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer sessions. On the other hand, the Jammy provides a more substantial typing feel with its heavier force requirements, appealing to those who enjoy a stronger push sensation while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The HMX Jammy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Despite the small difference, this variance can be noticeable depending on personal preference and intended use. For those seeking a quicker response time, the shorter travel distance of the Jammy may be favored, especially by gamers. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Milk Blue may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who appreciate a deeper key press. Both switches offer a reliable performance, but the preference between the two ultimately comes down to the individual's typing style and desired feel.
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 Milk Blue 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
The HMX Jammy linear switch is known for its softer and glittery nylon housings, offering a typing experience that is both muted and deeply satisfying. When it comes to sound, the Jammy switch produces a quiet and subtle typing noise compared to other switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch is known for providing a crisp and tactile click when pressed. The sound of the Milk Blue switch is loud and satisfying for those who enjoy an audible feedback while typing.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Jammy linear switch is described as providing a smooth and consistent keystroke with a medium-weight actuation force. This results in a comfortable typing experience without the need for excessive force. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch offers a tactile bump and audible click when the switch actuates, providing a satisfying feedback for users who prefer a more pronounced key press.
Overall, the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch offer different typing experiences in terms of sound and feel. While the Jammy switch provides a quiet and smooth typing experience, the Milk Blue switch brings a loud and tactile feedback for those who enjoy the clicky feel. Depending on personal preferences in sound and typing experience, both switches can provide satisfactory results, albeit in different ways. Ultimately, it is important for newcomers to try out different switches and find the one that best suits their individual needs and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force and typing experience. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a muted yet satisfying typing experience, the Jammy linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a clicky typing experience without bottom out force, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preference for typing feel and sound.
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