HMX Jammy vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the HMX Jammy and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Jammy and the Jerrzi Salt Ice both offer unique typing experiences. The Jammy, a linear switch with softer nylon housings, provides a muted and satisfying typing feel, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more subtle touch. On the other hand, the Salt Ice, also a linear switch but with exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, offers a vibrant feedback and effortless actuation that is ideal for users seeking a more energetic and responsive 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
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Jammy and the Jerrzi Salt Ice, one key difference lies in the material used for the top housing. The Jammy utilizes nylon, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer and more sound-absorbent nature. On the other hand, the Salt Ice features a polycarbonate top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to the stiffness of the plastic. This contrast in sound profiles showcases how different housing materials can significantly impact the overall typing experience for users of these switches.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Jammy and the Salt Ice continue to showcase the differences between nylon and polycarbonate. The nylon bottom housing of the Jammy contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to its top housing, due to its softer nature. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Salt Ice results in a sharper and crisper sound profile, accentuating the differences in sound characteristics between the two switches. These distinct sound profiles highlight how the choice of housing material can play a significant role in shaping the typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Overall, while the housing materials of the HMX Jammy and the Jerrzi Salt Ice differ in terms of nylon and polycarbonate, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The use of nylon in the Jammy creates a duller and rounder sound profile, ideal for those seeking a softer typing experience. Conversely, the polycarbonate construction of the Salt Ice delivers a clearer and more resonant sound profile, perfect for users who prefer a sharper and crisper typing sound. Despite their differences, both switches excel in providing users with distinct sound profiles that cater to a variety of typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, it is clear that there are key differences between the two. The Jammy has a slightly higher actuation force of 57 grams compared to the Salt Ice's 45 grams, making it a bit heavier in terms of typing pressure. However, the Jammy also has a higher bottom out force of 63 grams, while the Salt Ice's bottom out force is unknown. This means that while the Jammy may require more force to fully press down on a key, the Salt Ice's bottom out force remains a mystery. In terms of weight, the Salt Ice is lighter with a lower actuation force, making it more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions where a lighter touch is preferred. On the other hand, the Jammy's heavier actuation and bottom out forces may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The HMX Jammy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Jammy being slightly longer than the Salt Ice. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Salt Ice, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Jammy. Ultimately, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, with the Jammy providing a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Salt Ice.
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 Jerrzi Salt Ice has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Salt Ice for $2.30.
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 HMX Jammy linear switch is known for its softer and muted typing experience, making it ideal for those looking for a quiet and satisfying feel while typing. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch stands out for its bright and clacky characteristics, offering a more energetic and responsive typing experience. When it comes to sound, the Jammy may produce a quieter typing noise, while the Salt Ice may have a more audible and clicky sound. As for the feel, the Jammy switch likely provides a smoother and softer actuation, while the Salt Ice switch offers a light and effortless typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference in terms of sound and feel. Both switches are linear and offer a medium-weight actuation, so users can expect similar results in terms of overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, you should consider your typing preferences and priorities. If you prefer a medium-weight switch with a muted and satisfying typing experience, the Jammy may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a bright and clacky switch with vibrant feedback and effortless actuation, the Salt Ice could be the switch that suits your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what typing experience you value the most and which switch aligns best with your preferences.
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