HMX Jammy vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the HMX Jammy and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Jammy and the Outemu Tom offer unique typing experiences for users. The HMX Jammy is a linear switch with softer nylon housings, providing a smooth typing experience that is both muted and deeply satisfying. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom is a tactile switch that offers a noticeable bump during actuation, providing tactile feedback to the user. Depending on your preference, you may choose the Jammy for its smooth and quiet typing experience or the Tom for its 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
55g
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
3.30 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 Tom, one can see a clear distinction between the nylon top housing of the Jammy and the polycarbonate top housing of the Tom. The Jammy's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Tom's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound profile. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly influence the typing experience for users, with the Jammy's nylon housing creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the Tom's polycarbonate housing which produces a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the clear polycarbonate housing of the Tom is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting, adding an extra visual element to the typing experience.
While the top housing materials of the Jammy and the Tom differ in their sound profiles, both switches share a nylon bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is known for its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. This similarity in bottom housing materials means that users can expect a consistent sound experience when pressing down on keys for both the Jammy and the Tom. However, the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel will be more pronounced compared to the top housing, which affects the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, the housing materials of the HMX Jammy and Outemu Tom play a significant role in shaping the typing experience for users. While the Jammy's nylon top and bottom housing create a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Tom's polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing provide a sharper and crisper sound profile. The choice between these two switches will ultimately come down to personal preference in sound and aesthetics, with the Jammy offering a more subdued sound and the Tom offering a more vibrant sound with the added bonus of RGB lighting compatibility. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience for users.
Weight
The HMX Jammy linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Tom tactile switch. The Jammy requires 57 grams of force to actuate a key, while the Tom only needs 55 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Jammy requires 63 grams compared to the Tom's unspecified force. The Jammy would provide a slightly more tactile typing experience due to the heavier forces required, making it more suitable for users who prefer a more substantial push feel. On the other hand, the lighter actuation force of the Tom would make it more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on the user's preference for typing experience and force requirement.
Travel distance
The HMX Jammy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, making it slightly longer than the Outemu Tom tactile switch with a travel distance of 3.3 mm. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, the Jammy offers a slightly deeper press compared to the Tom. Gamers who value faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Tom, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Jammy. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing or gaming needs of the user.
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 Tom 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 quiet and muted typing experience due to its softer nylon housings. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Tom tactile switch is not specified, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard used and the keycaps.
In terms of feel, the HMX Jammy linear switch offers a smooth typing experience with a medium weight that is satisfying to use. Conversely, the Outemu Tom tactile switch's tactile bump provides feedback to the user during typing, allowing for a more pronounced feel compared to linear switches. Without a specific description, it is unclear how the Tom switch feels in comparison to the Jammy.
Overall, if the Jammy and Tom switches have similar properties in terms of sound and feel, users can expect comparable results in their typing experience. It is important for newcomers to mechanical keyboards to consider their personal preferences and needs when choosing between these two switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience and bottom out force. If you enjoy a medium-weight typing experience with a muted and satisfying feel, the Jammy linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a different bottom out force, the Outemu Tom switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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