HMX Jammy vs. Durock Piano
An in-depth look at the HMX Jammy and the Durock Piano 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 Durock Piano, also a linear switch. The Jammy is best known for its softer nylon housing and medium-weight design, providing a typing experience that is both muted and deeply satisfying. On the other hand, the Durock Piano stands out for its proprietary material blend, offering a gliding push feel and a deep, creamy sound signature. While the Jammy might be preferred for its softer typing experience, the Piano's unique blend may appeal to those seeking a bassy, frictionless, and silky typing experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Mystery material
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
Both the HMX Jammy and the Durock Piano feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Jammy utilizes a nylon top housing, known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Piano boasts a proprietary POM blend top housing, which offers a satisfying and deep sound profile. While both materials aim to enhance the typing experience, they do so in slightly different ways.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Jammy and the Piano feature similar nylon and POM blend materials, respectively. Nylon is favored for its ability to produce a rounder and duller sound, contributing to a deeper sound profile when typing on switches. Similarly, the POM blend bottom housing of the Piano is designed to offer a uniquely satisfying and deep sound profile. These materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and feel of the switches, creating a cohesive typing experience for users.
Overall, the choice between the HMX Jammy and the Durock Piano housing materials ultimately comes down to personal preference. While both switches offer deep and satisfying sound profiles, the nylon housing of the Jammy may appeal to those seeking a softer and rounder typing experience, while the proprietary POM blend of the Piano provides a unique and satisfying sound profile. Whether typing on the Jammy or the Piano, users can expect a high-quality typing experience with distinct nuances in sound and feel based on the housing materials used.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, it is clear that the Jammy is lighter in terms of actuation force at 57 grams compared to the unknown force of the Piano. However, both switches share a bottom out force of 63 grams, making them fairly similar in that regard. The Jammy provides a medium actuation force and bottom out force, while the Piano falls into the medium-heavy category for bottom out force. The weight of a switch is important to consider as it can impact typing comfort and fatigue. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Jammy for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the Piano for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Jammy linear switch is 3.7 mm, while the Durock Piano linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Durock Piano has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the HMX Jammy. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Jammy being slightly shallower and the Piano being closer to the standard 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may lean towards the HMX Jammy for its quicker response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Durock Piano. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and typing 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 Durock Piano has an MSRP of $6.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Piano for $5.57.
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 and deeply satisfying typing experience, but specific descriptors are not available. On the other hand, the Durock Piano linear switch is described as having a bassy sound profile, offering a deeper and richer sound during key presses. Both switches offer unique sound qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preference and other factors such as keyboard construction and keycaps.
Moving on to feel, the HMX Jammy linear switch is known for its medium weight and softer nylon housing, providing a typing experience that is both satisfying and comfortable. Unfortunately, specific feel descriptors are not available for this switch. In contrast, the Durock Piano linear switch is described as offering a frictionless and silky feel, providing an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance during key presses. The gliding push feel and deep, creamy sound signature of the Piano switches add to the overall luxurious typing experience.
In conclusion, while specific sound and feel descriptors may differ between the HMX Jammy and Durock Piano linear switches, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience for newcomers to mechanical keyboards. Whether you prefer a muted and satisfying typing experience like the Jammy or a bassy sound profile and silky, frictionless feel like the Piano, both switches offer something special for keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, experimenting with different switches and combinations of components is key to finding the perfect typing experience that suits your preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, you should consider the Jammy if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a typing experience that is both satisfying and muted. On the other hand, the Piano is a great choice if you lean towards a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a gliding push feel with a deep, creamy sound signature. If you prioritize sound, the Piano offers a bassy profile, while if feel is more important to you, the Jammy provides a silky typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for bottom out force, typing experience, sound profile, and typing feel.
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