HMX Jammy vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the HMX Jammy and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Jammy and KTT Strawberry stand out as top contenders in the linear switch category. The HMX Jammy is revered for its softer nylon housings, offering a typing experience that is both subdued and immensely satisfying. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry boasts attractive pink and clear housings, providing smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. While the Jammy is known for its medium weight, the Strawberry falls under categories like 'Low-pitched', 'Frictionless', 'Silky', 'Buttery', and 'Polished'. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches may come down to personal preferences and specific typing 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
43g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Jammy and the KTT Strawberry provide contrasting sound profiles due to their different properties. The Jammy's nylon top and bottom housings result in a deeper and fuller sound profile, with a duller and rounder sound when typing. On the other hand, the Strawberry's polycarbonate top and bottom housings create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, with a more clear and resonant tone. The use of different housing materials in these switches leads to distinct typing experiences, catering to different preferences in sound and feel.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the HMX Jammy and the KTT Strawberry offer unique advantages. The use of nylon in the Jammy's housing absorbs more sound and creates a softer typing experience, ideal for users who prefer a quieter keystroke. On the other hand, the polycarbonate housing of the Strawberry produces a more resonant sound, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a crisp and clear typing sound. While the sound profiles may vary, both switches provide a quality typing experience with their respective housing materials, catering to a range of preferences in sound and feel.
When considering the top and bottom housings of these switches, it is important to note how each material impacts the overall typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing, whether nylon or polycarbonate, have a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressing down on a key. Conversely, the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key, showcasing the differences in sound profiles between the Jammy and Strawberry switches. While the housing materials may differ, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique sound profiles.
Weight
The HMX Jammy linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 57 grams compared to the KTT Strawberry linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Jammy at 63 grams and the Strawberry at 62 grams. This means that while the Strawberry may require less force to initiate a keystroke, both switches will feel similar in terms of the amount of force needed to fully press the key. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Strawberry for extended typing sessions, while others may enjoy the slightly heavier actuation force of the Jammy for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Jammy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the KTT Strawberry linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the KTT Strawberry has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the HMX Jammy. The shorter travel distance of the HMX Jammy may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the KTT Strawberry may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of desired key press feedback and responsiveness. Both switches offer a different feel in terms of travel distance, but each can provide a satisfying typing experience depending on individual preferences.
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 KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91 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
In terms of sound, the HMX Jammy switches are known for their muted and deeply satisfying sound, while the KTT Strawberry switches offer a low-pitched and mellow tone that can be more bass-heavy. Sound is a subjective quality that can be influenced by external factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so results may vary based on personal preference and setup.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Jammy switches are described as having a softer typing experience due to their medium weight, but specific descriptors are not provided. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switches are known for their frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished typing feel, offering an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance. This makes the KTT Strawberry switches ideal for those who value a smooth and refined typing sensation.
Overall, both the HMX Jammy and KTT Strawberry switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Jammy switches offer a softer typing experience with a muted sound, the Strawberry switches provide a smooth and effortless feel with a low-pitched tone. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, you can achieve similar results with either switch by selecting the one that best aligns with your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the HMX Jammy linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, there are a few key factors to consider. If you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force and a typing experience that is both muted and deeply satisfying, the Jammy switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lower bottom out force and a smooth actuation with a comfortable feel, the Strawberry switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. So, take into consideration your own typing style and preferences when making your choice between these two linear switches.
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