HMX Jammy vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the HMX Jammy and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Jammy and HMX Xinhai both offer unique features and characteristics to cater to different preferences. The Jammy is a linear switch that stands out for its softer and glittery nylon housings, providing a typing experience that is smooth, muted, and deeply satisfying. On the other hand, the Xinhai, also a linear switch, is crafted with a unique PA12 top housing and a POM stem, offering a softer acoustics profile and a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance. The Xinhai is known for its bouncy, clacky, and creamy feel. While general pointers can help guide your decision, it's important to dive deeper into the specifics of each switch to determine which one suits your preferences and typing style best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
57g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Jammy and the HMX Xinhai differ in terms of their composition and the resulting sound profile. The Jammy features a nylon top housing, which is softer and absorbs more sound, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Xinhai utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This contrast in material results in distinct auditory experiences for users of each switch. The Jammy's nylon bottom housing shares similar characteristics with its top housing, while the Xinhai's nylon bottom housing mirrors the sound profile of the Jammy.
Despite the differences in top and bottom housing materials, both the HMX Jammy and the HMX Xinhai offer a unique typing experience due to their respective materials. The nylon components of the Jammy provide a softer, more rounded sound profile, while the polycarbonate elements of the Xinhai produce a clearer, more resonant sound. While the materials may lead to varied sounds, both switches aim to optimize the typing experience for users. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a balanced distribution of sound qualities, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound upon key release.
Ultimately, the choice between the HMX Jammy and the HMX Xinhai will depend on individual preferences regarding sound and typing feel. The nylon housing of the Jammy offers a deep and rich sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a softer typing experience. In contrast, the polycarbonate housing of the Xinhai produces a crisper and more resonant sound, catering to users who prefer a sharper typing feel. Regardless of the choice, both switches aim to provide a high-quality typing experience with distinct sound profiles thanks to their unique housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Jammy linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, we see a clear difference in weight. The Jammy has a medium actuation force of 57 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, while the Xinhai has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This makes the Xinhai the lighter of the two switches. Some users may prefer the Jammy for its slightly heavier touch, which provides a more substantial typing experience, while others may gravitate towards the Xinhai for its lighter touch, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference based on desired typing experience and comfort level.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Jammy linear switch is 3.7 mm, while the travel distance of the HMX Xinhai linear switch is 3.4 mm. This makes the Xinhai the shorter option in terms of travel distance. Both of these switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel, the shorter Xinhai switch may be the better choice for you. However, if you prefer a bit more depth and tactile feedback, the Jammy switch with its longer travel distance may be the preferred option. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience you are looking for.
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 Xinhai has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai for $3.19.
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 switch offers a more muted and deeply satisfying experience compared to the HMX Xinhai switch, which is known for its sharp and snappy, clacky sound. The Jammy's softer nylon housings contribute to its quieter sound profile, while the Xinhai's unique PA12 top housing and POM stem combination result in a distinctively crisp and higher-pitched resonance. Keep in mind that the overall sound produced by a switch is also influenced by the keyboard body and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the HMX Jammy switch provides a typing experience that is not explicitly described in the given information. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch is known for its bouncy feel, giving a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation that livens up the typing experience. Additionally, the Xinhai switch is described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing sensation that feels effortless and silky.
In conclusion, the HMX Jammy and HMX Xinhai linear switches offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the Jammy provides a muted and deeply satisfying typing experience, the Xinhai is more known for its sharp, clacky sound and bouncy, creamy feel. Depending on your personal preferences for sound profile and typing sensation, you can achieve satisfying results with either switch option. Experimenting with different switches in combination with various keyboards and keycaps can further tailor the overall typing experience to suit your individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Jammy linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, consider the bottom out force and the typing experience you prefer. If you prefer a medium-weight switch with a muted and deeply satisfying typing experience, the Jammy might be the right choice for you. However, if you prefer a lighter switch with a blend of subtle sophistication and precise performance, the Xinhai could be the better option. Additionally, if you enjoy a clacky sound and a bouncy feel when typing, the Xinhai switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your individual typing preferences and the overall feel and sound you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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