HMX Jammy vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the HMX Jammy and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come up for consideration are the HMX Jammy and the Kailh Sage. The HMX Jammy is a linear switch, known for its softer nylon housings and medium weight, providing a typing experience that is both muted and deeply satisfying. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage is a clicky switch, offering a distinct clicky typing experience with a heavier weight and sharp clickiness. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and benefits, making them appealing choices for different preferences and needs. 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 Sage, it is clear that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This means that typing on switches from either of these keyboards will elicit a similar deep and full sound profile due to nylon's softer plastic composition. The absorption of sound by the nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound upon bottoming out the key, providing a consistent typing experience between the two switches.
However, when it comes to the top housing, the HMX Jammy uses nylon while the Kailh Sage utilizes polycarbonate. This contrast in materials leads to differing sound profiles when typing on the switches. The nylon top housing of the Jammy produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, whereas the polycarbonate top housing of the Sage creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Additionally, the Sage's clear polycarbonate top housing is especially beneficial for RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for vibrant lighting effects not achievable with the opaque nylon of the Jammy.
Overall, the choice of housing material in a switch plays a significant role in the sound and feel of typing on a keyboard. While both the HMX Jammy and the Kailh Sage share a common nylon bottom housing for a consistent bottom-out sound and feel, their differing top housing materials result in distinct sound profiles. The Jammy's nylon top housing creates a duller and rounder sound, while the Sage's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. Ultimately, the housing materials of these switches cater to different preferences in typing experience, with nylon offering a softer feel and polycarbonate providing a clearer sound.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, we can see some differences. The HMX Jammy has a lighter actuation force of 57 grams compared to the Kailh Sage which has an unknown actuation force. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Kailh Sage is heavier with 70 grams compared to the HMX Jammy's 63 grams. Both switches fall in the medium to medium-heavy range of force. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the HMX Jammy for longer typing or gaming sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Kailh Sage. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference for typing feel and force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, we find that the Jammy offers a slightly longer distance of 3.7 mm, compared to the Sage's 3.6 mm. The difference may seem insignificant, but for those who have a preference for a particular feel while typing or gaming, it can make a difference. The Jammy's 3.7 mm offers a tad more depth when pressing down on the key, while the Sage's 3.6 mm provides a slightly quicker response due to the shorter distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference, with gamers possibly leaning towards the Sage for its slightly shorter travel distance.
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 Sage 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 sound, the HMX Jammy linear switch is known for its muted and satisfying typing experience, with a softer nylon housing contributing to a quieter operation. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage clicky switch offers a distinct clicky sound that is described as crunchy, reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. Both switches will produce different auditory feedback, with the Jammy offering a more subdued sound compared to the clickiness of the Sage.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the HMX Jammy linear switch is known for its medium-weight feel that provides a satisfying typing experience. However, specific tactile feedback descriptors are not provided for the Jammy switch. In contrast, the Kailh Sage clicky switch is described as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. Additionally, the Sage switch is also described as providing a sharp tactile bump that is prominent with each keypress, offering a distinct tactile sensation.
In conclusion, the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch offer unique typing experiences with differences in both sound and feel. The Jammy switch provides a quieter and more muted typing experience, while the Sage switch offers a distinct clicky sound and a more pronounced tactile feedback. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, both switches can provide satisfying typing experiences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to individual preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, you should choose the Jammy if you prefer a softer and more muted typing experience with medium bottom out force. On the other hand, if you enjoy a sharp and distinct clicky feedback with a heavier bottom out force, the Sage would be the better option for you. Keep in mind that the Jammy offers a medium bottom out force of 63 grams, while the Sage has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams. Additionally, consider the sound and feel characteristics of each switch to determine which aligns better with your typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the HMX Jammy and Kailh Sage boils down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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