HMX Jammy vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the HMX Jammy and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Jammy and the Dareu Snow both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The HMX Jammy is a linear switch with softer nylon housings, providing a typing experience that is both muted and deeply satisfying. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow also falls under the linear switch category, but stands out with its innovative use of POK material for the top housing and stem, resulting in a deeper sound signature while typing. The Jammy is best known for its medium-weight feel, while the Snow is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bouncy'. Each switch has its own strengths that may appeal to different users based on their preferences and typing style. 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
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Jammy and the Dareu Snow both use nylon for their top housing material, providing a deep and fuller sound profile when typing. However, the Snow also utilizes POK material for its top housing, which offers increased smoothness, durability, and shock resistance compared to nylon. This means that while both switches will offer a similar sound profile, the Snow switch will likely feel smoother and more durable during use. Additionally, the Snow switch's top housing material allows for a clacky sound that may be preferred by some users over the rounder sound of nylon.
On the other hand, both the Jammy and the Snow switches use nylon for their bottom housing material, resulting in a consistent deep and fuller sound profile when typing. The bottom housing of a switch has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, so users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feedback from both switches. While the top housing of the Snow switch may offer increased smoothness and durability, the use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a familiar typing experience for users of both switches.
Ultimately, the choice between the HMX Jammy and the Dareu Snow will come down to personal preference regarding the feel and sound profile of the switches. While both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, the Snow switch offers the added benefit of POK material for its top housing, providing increased smoothness, durability, and shock resistance. Users who prioritize these qualities may prefer the Snow switch, while those who prefer a familiar and classic typing experience may opt for the Jammy switch. Overall, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that contribute to a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
The HMX Jammy linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 57 grams compared to the Dareu Snow linear switch with 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Jammy requires 63 grams while the Snow needs 60 grams. Both switches fall into the medium weight category, making them suitable for those who prefer a balance between light and heavy switches. The slight difference in force between the two switches may not be very noticeable during regular typing or gaming, so users can expect similar results in terms of force feedback and typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for a slightly heavier or lighter keypress feel.
Travel distance
The HMX Jammy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Dareu Snow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Comparing the two, the Jammy has a slightly longer travel distance than the Snow. The Jammy's 3.7 mm travel distance provides a slightly deeper press compared to the Snow's 3.3 mm travel distance. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Snow with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may prefer the Jammy. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying travel distances, with the Jammy offering a slightly longer press compared to the Snow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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. This switch provides a softer sound profile due to its glittery nylon housings, resulting in a more subdued auditory experience. In contrast, the Dareu Snow linear switch stands out with a thocky sound signature, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. The Snow switch's use of POK material for both the top housing and stem contributes to a deeper sound profile, offering a more prominent auditory feedback compared to the Jammy switch.
In terms of feel, the HMX Jammy linear switch provides a typing experience that is yet to be described. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch offers a bouncy feel, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. The keys on the Snow switch have a lively feel, giving users a rebound when pressed, enhancing the overall typing experience with a dynamic tactile response.
Overall, both the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. While the Jammy switch provides a softer sound profile and an as-yet-undescribed typing feel, the Snow switch stands out with its thocky sound signature and bouncy typing experience. Choosing between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience desired by the user. Keep in mind that the sound and feel of a switch are also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so experiment to find the perfect fit for your needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a typing experience that is muted and deeply satisfying with a medium bottom out force of 63 grams, then the Jammy switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you appreciate a smooth linear switch with an innovative use of POK material for a deeper sound signature and a slightly lighter bottom out force of 60 grams, then the Snow switch might be more suited to your liking. Ultimately, whether you prioritize a softer typing experience with the Jammy switch or a bouncy feel with the Snow switch, make sure to choose based on your own preferences and typing style for the best mechanical keyboard experience.
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