HMX Jammy vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the HMX Jammy and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Jammy and the Outemu Red Panda present themselves as intriguing options to consider. The Jammy, a linear switch, is favored for its softer nylon housings and medium-weight feel, providing a typing experience that is satisfying and muted. On the other hand, the Red Panda, a tactile switch, offers a light-medium amount of tactility with a unique bottom-out sound akin to raindrops and a clackier top-out sound. Both switches have their own standout characteristics that make them appealing choices for different preferences. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
The HMX Jammy and Outemu Red Panda both feature nylon top housing materials, which are known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to their softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Red Panda utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Jammy. The use of polycarbonate in the Red Panda switch creates a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches featuring RGB lighting. Despite both switches having different top housing materials, they both offer unique sound profiles catering to different preferences.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the HMX Jammy and Outemu Red Panda utilize nylon material, which also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. This results in a duller and rounder sound that is consistent across both switches. While the Jammy and Red Panda have the same bottom housing material, the differences in their top housing materials will still impact the overall sound profile and feel of each switch. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, showcasing the importance of even the smallest details in switch design.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a switch can greatly impact the sound profile and overall typing experience. The differing nylon and polycarbonate materials used in the HMX Jammy and Outemu Red Panda showcase how unique compositions can create distinct sound profiles. While the Jammy offers a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon top and bottom housing, the Red Panda provides a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing. Understanding the impact of housing materials on the typing experience is crucial for enthusiasts looking to customize their keyboards to their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, we can see that the Red Panda is lighter in both aspects. The Jammy has an actuation force of 57 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, while the Red Panda has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. Both switches fall into the medium force category, making them suitable for a wide range of users. Those who prefer a lighter and smoother typing experience may lean towards the Red Panda, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance and feedback may opt for the Jammy. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Jammy linear switch is 3.7 mm, while the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Jammy has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Red Panda. The Jammy's 3.7 mm distance offers a slightly deeper press compared to the Red Panda's 3.3 mm. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Red Panda, while those who prefer a more deliberate key press may lean towards the longer travel distance of the Jammy. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key depth 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 Red Panda comes in at $3.40 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 best known for its softer, muted typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter keyboard. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offers a unique thocky sound profile with a bassier bottom-out and a clackier top-out sound, providing a more pronounced and satisfying auditory feedback for users. Ultimately, the sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by factors such as keyboard build and keycap material.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Jammy linear switch is described as providing a deeply satisfying typing experience with medium-weight actuation. This switch offers a smooth and consistent keystroke, perfect for users who prefer a more consistent feel while typing. In contrast, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is known for its mild tactility, offering a gentler typing experience that falls in the middle ground in terms of feedback intensity. This makes the Red Panda switch a great option for users who prefer a balance between tactility and smoothness.
In conclusion, both the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Jammy switch provides a muted and satisfying typing experience with medium-weight actuation, the Red Panda switch offers a thocky sound profile and mild tactility for users who enjoy a more pronounced feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Whether you choose the Jammy or Red Panda switch, you can expect a high-quality typing experience tailored to your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a smoother and more muted typing feel with a sprinkle of glitter, the Jammy switch may be your best choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile typing experience with a satisfying thocky sound, the Red Panda switch might be more up your alley. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will boil down to your personal preference for typing feel and sound.
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