HMX Jammy vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the HMX Jammy and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the HMX Jammy and Kailh Plum mechanical keyboard switches, one can immediately notice the distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Jammy is a linear switch, known for its softer nylon housings that offer a muted yet deeply satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Plum is a tactile switch that feels hefty without a pronounced tactile bump, providing a unique feel compared to other tactile switches. While the Jammy offers a medium-weight typing experience, the Plum offers a neutral and enjoyable sound profile. Choosing between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style; 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
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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 Kailh Plum, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This suggests that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile, with a deeper and fuller sound being elicited due to the softer nature of nylon. However, when it comes to the top housing, the Jammy utilizes nylon while the Plum opts for polycarbonate. This leads to a noticeable contrast in sound profiles, with the Jammy producing a duller and rounder sound compared to the Plum's sharper and crisper sound.
Aesthetically speaking, the choice of housing material also plays a role in the overall appearance of the switches. While nylon is a classic material used in switch housings, its translucent nature makes polycarbonate a popular choice for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. The Plum's clear polycarbonate top housing allows for the RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the visual appeal of the switch. On the other hand, the Jammy's nylon top housing, while not translucent, still provides a classic look that is favored by many mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
When it comes to the tactile experience of using these switches, the housing material of both the top and bottom plays a crucial role. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate for the top housing can result in distinct typing experiences for users of the HMX Jammy and the Kailh Plum switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, it is evident that the Jammy has a lighter actuation force of 57 grams compared to the Plum's unknown actuation force. However, the Plum has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams while the Jammy has a bottom out force of 63 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range, but the Plum leans towards the medium-heavy side. The lighter actuation force of the Jammy may be more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the heavier bottom out force of the Plum provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The HMX Jammy linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch both have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0mm distance. The Jammy has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Plum has a slightly shorter distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches offer fast response times due to their shorter travel distances, making them popular choices for gamers. The slight difference in travel distance may not be noticeable to most users, as both switches fall within the short travel distance range. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference for a slightly longer or slightly shorter keypress 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 Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25 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 the sound profile, the HMX Jammy linear switch is known for its muted and deeply satisfying typing experience, while the Kailh Plum tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile that is enjoyable for most users. Both switches provide a pleasant auditory experience that is designed to enhance the overall typing experience, with the Jammy switch possibly providing a quieter typing experience due to its linear nature.
In terms of feel, the HMX Jammy linear switch offers a softer typing experience with a medium weight, providing a unique and satisfying feel. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch is described as mild and stepped, offering a more gentle typing experience with a unique tactile feel that is not as weighty as expected. While the Jammy switch may provide a smoother typing experience, the Plum switch offers a more nuanced tactile feedback that could appeal to users looking for a different typing sensation.
Overall, both the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Jammy switch provides a quieter and softer typing experience, the Plum switch offers a more nuanced tactile feedback that may appeal to users looking for a different feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a softer and muted typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the Jammy switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique and slightly heavier tactile switch with a moderate sound profile and a stepped feel, the Plum switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your choice should be based on personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
Mentioned in this article
