HMX Jammy vs. Outemu Purple
An in-depth look at the HMX Jammy and the Outemu Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the HMX Jammy, a linear switch, and the Outemu Purple, a tactile switch. The Jammy is renowned for its softer nylon housings adorned with glitter, creating a unique typing experience that is both smooth and satisfying. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple switch doesn't have a standout feature but offers a tactile bump for tactile feedback during typing. While the Jammy switch provides a quieter typing experience, the Purple switch offers more tactile feedback. 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
2.00 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 Purple, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature which absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housing. The similarity in using nylon for the bottom housing means that both the Jammy and the Purple switches will likely have a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when the keys are pressed.
On the other hand, the top housing materials of the Jammy and the Purple differ, with the Jammy using nylon and the Purple utilizing polycarbonate. The use of polycarbonate in the Purple's top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the deeper and fuller sound produced by the nylon top housing of the Jammy. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the Purple switches. This difference in top housing materials highlights the distinct sound profiles that users can expect when typing on the Jammy versus the Purple switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches such as the HMX Jammy and the Outemu Purple plays a significant role in influencing the sound and feel of typing on these switches. While both switches share the use of nylon for their bottom housing, the differentiation in the top housing materials, with the Jammy utilizing nylon and the Purple incorporating polycarbonate, leads to distinct auditory experiences. Whether the softer, rounder sound of the Jammy or the crisper, higher-pitched sound of the Purple is preferred will largely depend on personal preference and the specific use case for the switches.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, it is evident that the Jammy has a slightly higher actuation force of 57 grams compared to the Purple's 50 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Jammy is also higher at 63 grams, while the Purple's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Jammy provides a slightly heavier typing experience overall. In terms of weight preference, those who prefer lighter switches may lean towards the Purple for a smoother typing experience, while those who prefer a stronger push may opt for the Jammy for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique typing experiences, with the Jammy being on the heavier side and the Purple leaning towards a lighter feel.
Travel distance
The HMX Jammy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Purple tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Jammy's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Purple's slightly longer travel distance might be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press. Both switches offer a different typing experience, with the Jammy providing a quicker, more immediate response and the Purple offering a bit more depth in each keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Purple 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 to produce a softer and more muted typing noise compared to the Outemu Purple tactile switch. The Jammy's nylon housing contributes to a quieter typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a more subdued typing sound. On the other hand, the Purple switch's sound profile is not well-documented, so it's hard to say how it compares in terms of noise level.
In terms of feel, the HMX Jammy linear switch offers a smooth typing experience with a medium-weight actuation force. The tactile feedback is subtle yet satisfying, providing a comfortable typing feel for extended use. In contrast, the Outemu Purple tactile switch is known for its tactile bump that provides a more pronounced feedback during typing. This bump enhances the overall typing experience, making it easier to register key presses accurately.
Overall, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with a smoother feel, the HMX Jammy linear switch would be the better choice for you. However, if you enjoy a more tactile typing feel with a pronounced feedback, the Outemu Purple tactile switch would be more suitable. Keep in mind that both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, but the choice ultimately depends on your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and satisfying typing experience with a medium bottom out force, you may want to choose the HMX Jammy linear switch. The softer nylon housings of the Jammy switches provide a muted and enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with an unknown bottom out force, the Outemu Purple tactile switch may be the right choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a linear switch with a specific bottom out force or a tactile switch with an unknown bottom out force. Consider your preferences for sound and feel as well when making your choice between these two switches.
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