HMX Jammy vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the HMX Jammy and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing the HMX Jammy and the Outemu Silent Yellow mechanical keyboard switches, both of these linear switches offer a smooth typing experience with no tactile bump or audible click. The HMX Jammy stands out with its softer and glittery nylon housings, providing a more muted but deeply satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow doesn't have any particular standout features but is known for its silent operation. Depending on personal preferences, the HMX Jammy may appeal to those looking for a unique and tactile typing experience, while the Outemu Silent Yellow may be preferred by those seeking a quiet and unobtrusive keyboard 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
60g
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 Silent Yellow, the main difference lies in the top housing material used. The Jammy features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Silent Yellow utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The choice of materials in the top housing not only affects the sound but also the aesthetics, with polycarbonate being translucent and ideal for showcasing RGB lighting. Despite these differences, both switches use nylon for the bottom housing, leading to a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile.
While the bottom housing of both the HMX Jammy and Outemu Silent Yellow is made of nylon, providing a similar sound and feel during typing, the top housing materials offer distinct characteristics. The Jammy's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile, while the Silent Yellow's polycarbonate top housing produces a clearer and resonant sound. This difference in top housing materials can impact the overall typing experience, with the Jammy offering a softer sound and the Silent Yellow delivering a crisper sound. Additionally, the choice of housing materials can also affect the overall look of the switch, with polycarbonate being more visually appealing due to its clarity and ability to enhance RGB lighting effects.
In terms of functionality, the top and bottom housing materials play a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing experience of a switch. The allocation of qualities between the top and bottom housing means that the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities based on housing material highlights the importance of considering both top and bottom housing materials when selecting a switch for a desired typing experience. Whether opting for the nylon top and bottom housings of the HMX Jammy or the polycarbonate top with nylon bottom housing of the Outemu Silent Yellow, the choice of housing materials can significantly impact the overall sound profile and feel of a switch.
Weight
The HMX Jammy linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch both provide a smooth typing experience without the audible click of traditional switches. However, they differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Jammy has a lighter actuation force of 57 grams compared to the Silent Yellow's 65 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes on the Jammy. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow requires a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, compared to the Jammy's 63 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods may lean towards the Jammy, while individuals who enjoy a more solid and firm feel may opt for the Silent Yellow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer of the two switches compared to the HMX Jammy linear switch with a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches are relatively close in terms of travel distance, with the Silent Yellow offering a slightly longer key press than the Jammy. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Jammy, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the Silent Yellow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of key feel and responsiveness.
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 Silent Yellow 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 muted typing experience due to the softer nylon housings. This switch provides a quieter typing sound compared to other switches, making it a great choice for those looking for a more discreet typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch does not have any specific information available regarding its sound properties. However, based on the fact that it is marketed as a "silent" switch, it can be assumed that it also offers a quieter typing sound similar to the Jammy switch.
Moving on to feel, the HMX Jammy linear switch is praised for its medium-weight feel, providing a satisfying typing experience for users. The switch offers a smooth keystroke that is both comfortable and enjoyable to type on. As for the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, there is no specific information available regarding its feel. However, since it is categorized as a silent switch, it can be assumed that it provides a smooth keystroke similar to the Jammy switch.
In conclusion, both the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch offer unique qualities that make them a great choice for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Jammy switch is praised for its muted sound and medium-weight feel, the Silent Yellow switch is most likely to provide a similar typing experience with its silent properties. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on the individual's preference for sound and feel, as well as other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a typing experience that is both muted and satisfying, then the Jammy switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and are looking for a silent typing experience, then the Silent Yellow switch would be more suitable. Consider your typing style, preference for key feel, and the environment in which you will be using the keyboard when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Jammy and Silent Yellow switches will depend on what matters most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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