HMX Jelly vs. KTT Lightning
An in-depth look at the HMX Jelly and the KTT Lightning switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Jelly and the KTT Lightning offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences among typists and gamers. The Jelly switches are celebrated for their low-pitched, deep, thocky sound signature, which provides a satisfying auditory experience alongside their super smooth performance attributed to excellent factory lubrication. With a lightweight 42g actuation force, the Jelly is ideal for those who favor a more relaxed typing experience without sacrificing responsiveness. Conversely, the KTT Lightnings excel in speed, catering specifically to competitive gamers who require quick actuation times for precision gameplay. Their slick feel and clacky sound profile make them not just responsive but also engaging. While both switches are linear and aim for a smooth typing experience, the Jelly offers a sense of weight and depth, while the Lightning prioritizes speed and agility. 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
42g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
T2
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Jelly and KTT Lightning switches utilize distinct materials for their top housings, which significantly influences the auditory experience they offer. The Jelly features a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This material effectively absorbs sound waves, resulting in a rounder and more muted auditory feedback when typing. In contrast, the Lightning employs polycarbonate for its top housing, which generates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate allows for clear resonation, making it particularly suitable for users who appreciate a more pronounced auditory response, especially in setups that include RGB lighting where a translucent housing can enhance visual effects.
When examining the bottom housings of both switches, they share a commonality: both the Jelly and the Lightning utilize nylon materials. This similarity means that regardless of the top housing differences, users will still experience a deeper sound profile influenced by the nylon bottom. The bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, as it absorbs sound and creates an overall rounder auditory experience typical of nylon. The consistent use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures that users looking for a softer typing experience will find a familiar tactile and auditory response, even if the top housings diverge significantly.
Ultimately, the combined characteristics of the housing materials dictate the overall typing experience of both the HMX Jelly and KTT Lightning. While the Jelly's nylon top contributes to a fuller sound and the Lightning's polycarbonate top allows for sharper responses, the shared nylon bottom ensures that both switches maintain a consistent sound profile at the key actuation point. Therefore, despite the contrasting nature of their top housings, both switches can yield satisfying results, appealing to different user preferences regarding sound and tactility.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Jelly linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, we find both switches to be on the lighter side. The Jelly has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Lightning features a slightly higher actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This indicates that while the Jelly is marginally lighter, both switches provide a relatively similar typing experience due to their comparable forces. The Jelly may appeal to those who need to type for extended periods, as its lower actuation force can reduce finger fatigue, making it ideal for long gaming sessions or work at the keyboard. On the other hand, the Lightning offers a slightly firmer push, which some users might prefer for a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference regarding weight, as both are lightweight options catering to different typing experiences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Jelly linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, the Jelly features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, whereas the Lightning has a shorter travel distance of 3 mm. This difference highlights the Jelly as the option providing a more substantial keypress experience, favored by users who enjoy a heartier depth in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Lightning, with its shallower 3 mm travel distance, caters to gamers and those seeking quicker response times for a more responsive experience. Ultimately, if you prefer a more pronounced feel while typing or gaming, the Jelly would be the superior choice, while the Lightning offers a snappier action that some users may find preferable.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Jelly has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jelly for $2.99.
The KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41 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 Jelly switch is known for its low-pitched, deep, and thocky sound signature, which is characterized by a rich, bassy tone that provides a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. This deeper sound is ideal for users who prefer a more substantial acoustic experience as they type. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning switch presents a clacky sound profile that is bright and sharp, producing a crisp, percussive noise with each press. The high-pitched chirpy characteristics of the Lightning create a snappy feel, which might appeal to those who enjoy a more energetic auditory response. Ultimately, while both switches are linear, their sounds cater to different preferences, with the Jelly offering a more subdued and deep tone, while the Lightning excels in a lively and high-pitched sound.
When it comes to feel, the Jelly switch is recognized for its exceptional smoothness, attributed to its excellent factory lubrication and a lightweight actuation force of 42g, which allows for a seamless typing experience. This smooth typing feel is crucial for many users who value a fluid action over resistance. In contrast, the KTT Lightning switches provide a slick typing feel, marked as polished and subtle; they maintain a gentle resistance that still feels light. Additionally, their polished nature ensures reduced friction for a more seamless key travel experience, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions or high-stakes gameplay. Therefore, while both switches strive for a smooth experience, the Jelly leans towards a lightweight and creamy feel, whereas the Lightning emphasizes a quick and responsive typing sensation.
Considering all the information, the HMX Jelly switches and KTT Lightning switches each present unique qualities that cater to different user preferences. The Jelly’s deep thocky sound and smooth feel may appeal to those seeking a more tactile and substantial typing experience, whereas the Lightning’s bright clacky sound and polished feel could attract users who value speed and agility, especially in competitive scenarios. Both switches have their advantages depending on what features you prioritize; thus, selecting between them will largely depend on whether you prefer a richer, more resonant typing experience or a crisp, responsive interaction.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Jelly linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch will largely depend on your specific typing preferences and use case scenarios. If you appreciate a smoother and deeper sound experience alongside a lightweight actuation, the Jelly switches are an excellent option, especially if you enjoy a thocky sound profile that can enhance your typing experience while maintaining a quieter presence in shared spaces. On the other hand, if you're after a switch that provides a faster response time and a more dynamic typing feel, the KTT Lightning is designed to cater to your speed needs with its clacky and sharp auditory feedback, making it particularly suitable for gaming situations where every keystroke count. Ultimately, selecting between these two switches comes down to whether you prioritize a smooth, rich acoustic experience with the Jelly or a faster, more responsive click with the Lightning.
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