HMX Jammy vs. HMX Perky
An in-depth look at the HMX Jammy and the HMX Perky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Jammy and the HMX Perky linear switches both offer compelling yet distinct typing experiences, catering to different preferences among users. The Jammy is celebrated for its medium weight and softer nylon housing, providing a typing feel that is both muted and deeply satisfying, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a balanced and comforting experience. In contrast, the Perky switch, while also featuring a soft, glittery nylon housing, stands out with its shorter travel distance, offering a more condensed typing experience that is neutral and equally gratifying. Both switches promise an enjoyable interaction on the keyboard, but they cater to different aspects of typing sensation. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T2
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Jammy and HMX Perky share a significant similarity in their construction, as both feature nylon as the material for both their top and bottom housings. Nylon is renowned in the keyboard community for its acoustic properties and tactile feedback. Specifically, it possesses a softer texture compared to harder plastics, allowing it to absorb sound waves more effectively. This results in a typing experience characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile, leading to a duller and rounder auditory response. Because both switches utilize nylon for their entire housing, users can expect a consistent sound quality and tactile feel when typing on either the Jammy or the Perky.
While the materials used in the HMX Jammy and HMX Perky are identical, leading to similar auditory experiences, the design nuances might still affect the overall performance and feel of the switches. It is important to note that even when using the same material, the shape, structure, and internal components of each housing can contribute to different tactile sensations during use. For example, slight variations in the design could shift the emphasis on either the bottom-out sound or the release sound when a key is pressed or released. However, regardless of these differences, the shared nylon composition ensures that the inherent acoustical benefits will be prevalent in both switch types.
In summary, both the HMX Jammy and HMX Perky capitalize on the advantages offered by nylon, making them comparable in terms of sound quality and feel. Users can anticipate a satisfying typing experience characterized by a plush sound and tactile feedback. While there may be subtle distinctions in their operational attributes due to variations in design, those who appreciate the properties of nylon have a solid choice in either switch, as both will deliver a fulfilling and acoustically pleasant performance.
Weight
The HMX Jammy linear switch and the HMX Perky linear switch present distinct characteristics in terms of their actuation and bottom out forces. The Jammy has a heavier actuation force of 57 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Perky boasts a significantly lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, appealing to users who appreciate a lighter touch for prolonged typing and gaming sessions. This difference in weight translates to a more effortless keystroke experience with the Perky, while the Jammy may provide a firmer tactile feedback that some users find satisfying. As a result, if you're looking for a switch that enables extended use without fatigue, the lighter Perky is the better choice, whereas the heavier Jammy might be favored by those who enjoy a stronger push feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Jammy linear switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, the Jammy measures 3.7 mm, while the Perky has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Jammy offers a deeper keypress experience compared to the Perky, appealing to users who favor a more substantial feel when typing. On the other hand, the Perky, with its shorter distance, may be better suited for gamers or users seeking quicker response times, as shorter travel distances are often preferred for their immediacy. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference: those who enjoy a hearty depth in their keystrokes may lean towards the Jammy, while others seeking rapid actuation might opt for the Perky.
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 HMX Perky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Perky for $2.99.
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 sound profile of the HMX Jammy linear switch is characterized by a muted quality, contributing to a more discreet typing experience. This softer acoustic response makes it particularly suitable for quieter environments or for individuals who prefer a more subdued auditory feedback during use. In contrast, the HMX Perky linear switch offers a neutral sound that remains equally satisfying but is likely more pronounced due to its shorter travel distance. Although both switches are crafted from similar softer nylon materials, the overall sound will ultimately vary depending on the keyboard build and keycap choice, allowing users to tailor their experience further.
When it comes to the feel, the HMX Jammy switch is designed to provide a deeply satisfying typing experience with a medium weight that strikes a balance between ease of actuation and resistance. This gives users a comfortable, responsive typing experience that many find enjoyable for long-duration use. Meanwhile, the HMX Perky switch provides a more condensed typing experience due to its shorter travel distance, which may offer a quicker response time, although it doesn't compromise on satisfaction. While both switches are reputable in their own right, the different characteristics may appeal to users depending on their typing preferences—whether they seek a more leisurely or an agile typing action.
In summary, while both the HMX Jammy and HMX Perky linear switches share the same soft and glittery nylon construction and deliver a deeply satisfying experience, they cater to different sound and feel preferences. The Jammy offers a muted sound profile with a medium weight feel, while the Perky features a neutral sound and shorter travel distance for a more condensed experience. Ultimately, both options can provide a delightful experience, and personal preference will play a significant role in determining which switch is best suited for your typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the HMX Jammy and HMX Perky linear switches, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium resistance that provides a balanced experience with a bit more tactile feedback, the Jammy switch may be the better option for you. Its 63-gram bottom-out force will give you a slightly more substantial feel, which can be particularly satisfying for those who enjoy a muted yet responsive typing experience. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter touch with quick actuation, the HMX Perky with its 50-gram bottom-out force is ideal for rapid typing and gaming sessions. The Perky’s neutral feel and shorter travel distance can help you achieve a more condensed typing experience, making it a fantastic choice for fast-paced environments. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you prioritize a medium tactile experience with the Jammy or a lighter, quicker feel with the Perky. Consider your typical use cases and the types of tasks you'll be performing, and choose the switch that complements your unique preferences best.
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