HMX Jammy vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the HMX Jammy and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the HMX Jammy, a linear switch, and the Gateron Type A, also a linear switch. The Jammy is best known for its softer and glittery nylon housings, providing a medium-weight typing experience that is both muted and deeply satisfying. On the other hand, the Type A from Gateron stands out with its innovative design from Sillyworks' Project Rehash, offering a unique sound signature leaning towards the deeper end of the spectrum. While the Jammy is categorized as a smooth switch, the Type A falls into the category of neutral and subdued switches. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that make them appealing options for different preferences. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the HMX Jammy and the Gateron Type A utilize nylon as their housing material, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in housing material ensures that both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality, making them suitable options for users looking for a specific sound profile in their mechanical keyboards.
In terms of the top housing, both the Jammy and the Type A feature nylon top housings that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing on these switches. This similarity in top housing material helps maintain consistency in sound quality between the two switches, ensuring that users can expect a similar sound experience regardless of which switch they choose.
Similarly, the bottom housing of both the HMX Jammy and the Gateron Type A is made of nylon, providing a consistent sound profile throughout the keystroke. The impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel is evident when pressing down on the switches, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This balance between the top and bottom housings ensures that both switches offer a coherent typing experience that is characterized by the deeper and fuller sound profile associated with nylon housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, we can see that the Jammy has a slightly heavier actuation force of 57 grams compared to the Type A's 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Jammy also has a heavier force of 63 grams compared to the Type A's 55 grams. Both switches fall within the medium weight range, but the Jammy is overall heavier than the Type A. The Jammy provides a more substantial typing experience with its higher actuation and bottom out forces, while the Type A offers a lighter touch for those who prefer a smoother key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and force required.
Travel distance
The HMX Jammy linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, which is shorter than the Gateron Type A linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Jammy offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Type A switch provides a bit more depth when pressed, which some users may prefer for a more substantial feel. Both switches fall within the range of modern travel distances, with the Type A being the more traditional option. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for responsiveness versus depth in key presses.
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 Type A comes in at $4.70 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Jammy linear switch offers a typing experience that is both muted and deeply satisfying, making it a great option for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch is characterized by a sound signature that leans towards the deeper side of the sound spectrum, providing a more distinct auditory feedback. Both switches provide different sound profiles that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard.
In terms of feel, the subjective qualities of the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch are not explicitly described in the provided information. However, considering that both switches are medium-weight linear switches, it can be inferred that they may offer a similar typing experience in terms of feel. Linear switches typically provide a smooth keystroke without the tactile bump or audible click present in other switch types, so users can expect a consistent and uninterrupted typing experience with both the Jammy and the Type A switches.
Overall, while the HMX Jammy linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch have different sound profiles, they both offer a medium-weight linear typing experience. Depending on whether you prefer a muted and satisfying sound like the Jammy or a deeper sound signature like the Type A, you can choose the switch that best suits your personal preferences. Additionally, other factors such as keycap material, keyboard build, and typing style can also influence the overall typing feel and sound output, so it's important to consider all these aspects when selecting the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a slightly higher bottom out force and a typing experience that is both muted and deeply satisfying, the HMX Jammy might be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a lighter bottom out force and a sound signature that leans towards the deeper side of the spectrum, the Gateron Type A could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and overall typing experience. Consider these factors carefully to choose the switch that best suits your needs.
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