HMX Jammy vs. HMX Sunset Gleam
An in-depth look at the HMX Jammy and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between the HMX Jammy and HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches can greatly influence your typing experience. The Jammy, with its softer and glittery nylon housings, provides a medium-weight feel that results in a typing experience that’s not only muted but also deeply satisfying, making it an excellent option for those who prefer a quieter keyboard. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam, famously known as the Duck Duck switch, showcases a superb blend of materials that offers a subtle top-out alongside a satisfying clack, perfectly complemented by HMX’s renowned factory lube. While both switches cater to linear enthusiasts, they bring distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences—whether you value a muted keystroke or a more pronounced auditory feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
57g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Jammy and the HMX Sunset Gleam present an intriguing contrast in sound profiles and aesthetic qualities, largely due to their differing materials in the top housing. The Jammy features a nylon top housing, which is characterized by its softer nature. This material inherently absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that contributes to a duller and rounder typing experience. In stark contrast, the Sunset Gleam utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and allows for greater resonance, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile. This distinction in the top housing materials significantly affects the auditory experience during typing, as the Jammy leans toward a warm and muted sound, while the Sunset Gleam provides a more vibrant and clear acoustic output.
Interestingly, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This shared material results in a uniformity in the deep and resonant sound profile that characterizes the bottom-out sound and feel for both models. Since nylon is acknowledged as a classic switch housing material, it ensures that both switches maintain a consistent tactile response when pressed down. Consequently, although the Jammy and Sunset Gleam create different sound experiences due to their varying top housings, they converge in delivering a similar base note due to the common nylon bottom housing. This means that regardless of the distinct sound signature provided by the top housing, the foundational response during actuation and bottoming out remains pleasantly cohesive.
Ultimately, the differences between these two switches stem from their top housing materials, which dictate the nuances of sound and feel experienced during typing. While the HMX Jammy’s nylon top offers a muted and rounded auditory quality, the HMX Sunset Gleam’s polycarbonate top exhibits a vibrant and lively sound profile. However, the nylon bottom housing in both switches ensures that they share a consistent core responsiveness when pressed, allowing for a balance of character in their respective performances. This combination illustrates how the interplay of different materials can create unique, yet compatible, user experiences across similar switch designs.
Weight
The HMX Jammy linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch present a clear contrast in actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences among users. The Jammy features an actuation force of 57 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, resulting in a medium resistance that some may find ideal for a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam is notably lighter, with an actuation force of just 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This makes the Sunset Gleam more suitable for long typing sessions or gaming, as its lower resistance reduces finger fatigue. Ultimately, those who prefer a heavier feel will gravitate toward the Jammy switch, while those seeking a lighter touch will favor the Sunset Gleam, leading to distinctly different user experiences based on their weight preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Jammy linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, it is evident that the Jammy has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Sunset Gleam measures at 3.5 mm. This difference means that, for those who prefer a more substantial depth and feedback when typing, the Jammy may offer a more satisfying experience. Conversely, the Sunset Gleam, with its shorter travel distance, caters to users who favor quick response times, such as gamers, allowing for rapid keystrokes and efficient gameplay. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on whether one values the heftiness of the Jammy or the swift actuation of the Sunset Gleam.
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 HMX Sunset Gleam has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sunset Gleam for $2.99.
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 offers a muted auditory experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing environment. This is largely due to its softer nylon housings, which help to dampen the sound of keystrokes. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam switch presents a more pronounced typing experience, characterized by a subtle top-out sound that combines with a satisfying clack due to its well-selected materials and excellent factory lube. The combination of these factors creates a more resonant auditory profile while still maintaining a linear switch's smoothness. Ultimately, while the Jammy leans towards a softer sound, the Sunset Gleam caters to users who appreciate a bit more acoustic feedback.
When looking at the feel, the Jammy switch is recognized for its medium-weight action, which provides a typing experience that many find both comfortable and enjoyable. Its softer construction contributes to a cushioned feeling when bottoming out, offering a satisfying tactile response without excessive resistance. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam offers a different sensation, often identified as a perfect blend of smoothness and light resistance. Users describe it as having a gentle push, which combined with the excellent factory lube, allows for a seamless glide through each keystroke. While the Jammy prioritizes a softer touch, the Sunset Gleam provides a balance that some might find more engaging yet equally enjoyable.
In conclusion, both the HMX Jammy and HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches cater to different preferences, making them appealing choices depending on your desired typing experience. The Jammy excels in providing a muted sound profile and a softer feel, while the Sunset Gleam leans towards a satisfying auditory feedback with a smooth, slightly more engaging feel. Whether you lean towards the quiet comfort of the Jammy or the dynamic response of the Sunset Gleam, each switch offers unique qualities that ensure a rewarding typing experience. If you're seeking a particular sound or feel, trying both may reveal which aligns best with your typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Jammy linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and the typing experience you're seeking. If you prefer a medium-weight switch that offers a muted yet satisfying feedback during typing, the Jammy would be your ideal pick. With its softer, glittery nylon housings, it provides a punchy yet subtle bottom-out force of 63 grams, making it suitable for long typing sessions where comfort is key. On the other hand, if you're looking for a lighter feel with a more pronounced, satisfying clack, the Sunset Gleam is the way to go. Weighing in at just 48 grams for bottom-out force, these switches deliver an enjoyable blend of responsiveness and tactile feedback, accentuated by HMX's excellent factory lube. In essence, choose the Jammy for a more muted, comforting typing experience, or opt for the Sunset Gleam if you desire a lively, engaging feel during every keystroke.
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