HMX Jammy vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the HMX Jammy and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the HMX Jammy and the Gateron Silent Ink Black. The HMX Jammy is a linear switch, known for its softer nylon housings and medium-weight that provide a muted yet satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black is also a linear switch, offering a cushiony bottom-out feel and minimal audio feedback, making it perfect for quieter environments. While the Jammy is best for those seeking a softer typing experience, the Silent Ink Black is ideal for those who prioritize a polished and muted 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
60g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
Both the HMX Jammy and the Gateron Silent Ink Black feature nylon top housings that contribute to a unique sound profile. The nylon in the Jammy switch absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend top housing creates a higher-pitched and clacky sound that is described as satisfying. While both housings offer a distinct sound experience, they cater to different preferences with the Jammy providing a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper and more pointed sound of the Silent Ink Black.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Jammy and the Silent Ink Black utilize nylon for a softer plastic feel that enhances the typing experience. The Jammy's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to its top housing characteristics. Meanwhile, the Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend bottom housing adds to the high-pitched and clacky sound profile that is synonymous with this switch variant. Both bottom housings play a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switches, offering users a tactile experience that complements their typing style and preferences.
When comparing the impact of top and bottom housings on switch performance, it becomes apparent that each housing material influences different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing the key. Despite these differences, both the Jammy and the Silent Ink Black aim to provide users with a satisfying typing experience by combining unique housing materials to create distinct sound profiles that cater to various preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. Ultimately, whether you prefer the deeper and fuller sound of the Jammy or the clacky and high-pitched sound of the Silent Ink Black, both switches offer quality housing materials that enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, it is clear that the Jammy is lighter in both aspects. The Jammy has an actuation force of 57 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, while the Silent Ink Black has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams. The Jammy would be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black would be more suitable for individuals who prefer a heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy force range, so users can expect similar results in terms of typing feel, despite the slight differences in force requirements. Ultimately, the decision between the two would depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, it is clear that the Jammy has a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Silent Ink Black boasts a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Jammy's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking a faster response time, while the Silent Ink Black's longer travel distance might offer a more satisfying depth to those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Silent Ink Black being slightly closer to the standard 4.0mm distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Gateron Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
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 offers a muted and deeply satisfying typing experience, thanks to its softer nylon housing. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch is specifically designed for quieter environments, producing a cushiony bottom-out feel with minimal audio feedback. Both switches prioritize a quieter typing experience, but the Jammy may provide a more muted sound compared to the Silent Ink Black.
As for feel, the HMX Jammy linear switch is known for its medium-weight and satisfying typing experience, although specific details about its tactile feel are not provided. In contrast, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch is described as silky and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. If you prefer a switch with a smoother and more refined feel, the Silent Ink Black may be the better choice.
In conclusion, both the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch are great options for those looking for a quieter typing experience. While the Jammy may provide a more muted sound, the Silent Ink Black offers a silky and polished feel for smooth key presses. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel, as both switches are designed to enhance your overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, you should consider a few factors. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a typing experience that is muted and deeply satisfying, the Jammy switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you need a medium-heavy bottom out force and a quieter typing experience with a cushiony bottom-out feel, the Silent Ink Black switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound level, and bottom out force. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different needs and preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and environment.
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