HMX Jammy vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the HMX Jammy and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Jammy and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offer unique typing experiences to consider. The Jammy, a linear switch, is renowned for its softer and glittery nylon housings, providing a typing experience that is both muted and deeply satisfying. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, a tactile switch, stands out for its medium-high level of tactility, thanks to its long, two-staged spring. Additionally, users can expect deep, resonating thocks when typing on these Shadow switches. While the Jammy offers a smooth and consistent typing feel, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provides a more tactile and satisfying 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
55g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
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
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Jammy and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches offer stark differences in sound profiles and aesthetics. The Jammy's nylon top and bottom housing create a deeper and fuller sound with a duller and rounder tone due to the softer nature of nylon. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate top and bottom housing produce a sharper, higher-pitched sound with a clearer and more resonant profile, thanks to the stiffer composition of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting, adding a visual appeal to the switch that nylon lacks.
While the housing materials of the HMX Jammy and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches serve different purposes, they both contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switch. The nylon top and bottom housing of the Jammy create a consistent and rounded typing experience, offering a softer feel when pressing down on keys. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top and bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provide a crisper and more resonant sound when typing, enhancing the overall tactile feedback. Despite their differences, both housing materials play a crucial role in determining the switch's performance and user experience.
In considering the housing materials of the HMX Jammy and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches, it becomes evident that the choice between nylon and polycarbonate can significantly impact the sound and aesthetics of a keyboard. The Jammy's nylon housing creates a deep and fuller sound, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate housing produces a sharper and clearer tone. Whether one prefers a softer and duller sound or a crisper and resonant profile, both housing materials offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the decision between nylon and polycarbonate will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and visual aesthetics in a mechanical keyboard setup.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, we find that the Jammy has a slightly higher actuation force of 57 grams compared to the Shadow's 55 grams. However, both switches share the same bottom out force of 63 grams. This means that while the Jammy may require a slightly heavier touch to trigger a keystroke, the experience of fully pressing the key is the same for both switches. In terms of weight, the Jammy could be considered slightly heavier due to its higher actuation force, which might appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow's lighter actuation force could be more suitable for users looking for a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The HMX Jammy linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm compared to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the Jammy offers a slightly quicker actuation due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers may prefer the Jammy for its faster response times, while those who enjoy a more gradual keypress may lean towards the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and 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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for $3.57.
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
In terms of sound, the HMX Jammy linear switch is known for its softer and muted typing experience, resulting in a satisfying thock sound. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch produces a sharp and snappy clacky sound due to its long, two-staged spring design. The Shadow switch variant also offers a higher-pitched sound profile, giving it a crisp and bright tone. Ultimately, the sound profile of a switch is subjective and can be influenced by various factors such as keyboard build and keycap material, so both switches provide distinct auditory experiences that cater to different preferences.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Jammy linear switch offers a unique typing experience with its medium-weight actuation and glittery nylon housings, providing a satisfying feel that is both smooth and deep. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is characterized by its sharp and Accented tactile bump, giving it a high feedback intensity that is distinct with each keypress. The Shadow switch variant also features a snappy and bouncy feel, thanks to its longer or dual-staged springs, providing a lively and responsive typing experience. Both switches offer different tactile feedback and actuation profiles, catering to users with varying preferences in typing feel.
In conclusion, the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch both offer unique and distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Jammy switch provides a softer and muted typing experience with a satisfying thock sound, while the Shadow switch variant delivers a sharp and snappy clacky sound with a high level of tactility. Depending on personal preferences in sound and feel, both switches offer excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking a satisfying and tailored typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the HMX Jammy linear switch or the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a typing experience that is muted yet deeply satisfying, then the Jammy switch with its medium bottom out force may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a medium-high level of tactility and enjoy the deep, resonating thocks while typing, then the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch may be more suitable. Consider the sound and feel descriptions of each switch to determine which one aligns best with your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on what type of typing experience you are seeking.
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