HMX Jelly vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the HMX Jelly and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Jelly and the Gateron Mini i present two distinct options that cater to different typing preferences. The HMX Jelly switch is celebrated for its deep, thocky sound signature and ultra-smooth keystrokes, characterized by a lightweight 42g actuation force, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a linear feel without any tactile bumps. Its auditory feedback and smoothness are ideal for users who appreciate a serene yet satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Mini i offers a tactile experience with gentle feedback that allows for a more pronounced typing sensation, perfect for those who want to feel each keystroke without excessive noise. With a muted sound profile, the Mini i is well-suited for office environments where quietness is a priority, allowing for long hours of comfortable typing. Each switch has its unique appeal—whether you prefer the seamless flow of the Jelly or the subtle feedback of the Mini i. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T2
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 extended single-stage spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Jelly and Gateron Mini i both utilize nylon as the primary material for their switch housings, which presents a fascinating similarity in their design philosophy. The use of nylon, known for its softness compared to harder plastics, allows both switch types to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This property of nylon effectively dampens vibrations, leading to a duller and rounder acoustic experience that many typists find appealing. Given that both switches feature nylon for both their top and bottom housings, it is reasonable to expect a similarly rich typing experience characterized by deeper sounds and a softer tactile feel, which could enhance user satisfaction across both models.
In examining the impact of the nylon housing on user experience, it is essential to consider how the acoustic characteristics are influenced by the distribution of housing materials. Both the Jelly and Mini i, with their identical nylon top and bottom housings, will deliver comparable sound profiles during both the act of pressing down on the key and releasing it. The nylon material’s sound absorption properties will play a significant role during the bottom-out phase as well as when the key is released. Since both switches share the same material for their housings, it could be expected that typists would perceive the same qualities regardless of which switch they are using, given that both are engineered to achieve similar auditory outcomes.
However, if there were differences in the housing materials or designs, the typing experience would vary based on how each material contributes to the switch dynamics. For instance, if one switch incorporated a harder plastic for one of the housings, it might lead to a crisper sound when releasing the key or a different tactile response when bottoming out. With both the HMX Jelly and Gateron Mini i operating under the same condition of utilizing nylon throughout, users can anticipate a uniformly enjoyable sound and feel across both switches, which reinforces the notion that housing materials significantly shape the overall performance of mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, both switches exhibit similar characteristics in terms of their actuation and bottom out forces, albeit with slight differences in their specifications. The Jelly switch requires an actuation force of 42 grams and has a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Mini i switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 50 grams. Overall, both switches are considered light, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. Although the HMX Jelly switch feels a bit heavier in terms of actuation force, the Mini i tactile switch is heavier when it comes to bottoming out. For users seeking a more substantial typing experience, the Mini i may provide that with its greater bottom out force, while those preferring a lighter feel could lean towards the Jelly.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, we find that the Jelly has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Mini i offers a slightly shorter distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Jelly provides a more substantial feeling of depth when pressed, appealing to users who favor a more pronounced keystroke. In contrast, those who might prefer the responsive, quicker actuation provided by the Mini i might appreciate its shorter travel distance, which can lead to faster performance, particularly in gaming scenarios. Consequently, the Jelly switch is the longer option, while the Mini i is the shorter switch; thus, your choice may ultimately depend on whether you value a deeper keystroke or quicker response time.
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 Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 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 linear switch offers a low-pitched, deep, thocky sound signature, which tends to be favored by enthusiasts who appreciate a more resonant auditory feedback without being overtly loud. This characteristic is particularly appealing for those seeking a richer typing experience while potentially minimizing disturbances in a shared environment. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch features a fairly muted sound profile, aimed at providing a subtle auditory experience that aligns well with its office-centric focus. This neutrality creates a more professional atmosphere, making it suitable for prolonged typing sessions without intruding on conversations or meetings. Overall, while the Jelly may deliver a more pronounced sound, both switches excel in creating a conducive typing environment, albeit with differing levels of auditory richness.
When it comes to feel, the Jelly switch is designed to be exceptionally smooth, largely due to its excellent factory lubrication, making it a pleasure to type on for extended periods. This smoothness combined with its lightweight actuation force allows for a fluid typing experience that is energizing yet effortless. In contrast, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch provides a bouncy and mildly snappy feel with gentle tactile feedback on each keystroke. This switch requires minimal force to activate and strikes a balance in its typing experience, offering a subtle yet noticeable response. The tactile feedback is designed to be comfortable and non-intrusive, ensuring that users can enjoy long typing sessions without excessive finger fatigue. Ultimately, while the Jelly offers a smoother actuation, the Mini i’s bounciness adds a layer of engagement that many users will find appealing.
In conclusion, both the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch deliver unique experiences that cater to different types of users. The Jelly’s deep thocky sound and silky smooth feel might attract those who enjoy a more traditional mechanical keyboard experience, while the Mini i’s muted sound and gentle tactile feedback appeal to professionals seeking a reliable and quiet typing solution. Your choice ultimately depends on what qualities you prioritize in your keyboard experience—sound, feel, or a combination of both, as each can provide a satisfying typing experience in its own right.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch primarily hinges on your specific typing preferences and use cases. If you enjoy a smooth, lightweight feel with a deep, thocky sound that enhances your typing experience, the HMX Jelly switches may be your best option. Their low actuation force of 42 grams makes them perfect for fast typing and gaming, while the smoothness of the switches minimizes finger fatigue during long sessions. On the other hand, if you seek a gentle tactile feedback combined with a more muted sound profile, the Gateron Mini i switches would serve you well in office environments or shared spaces. Their mild yet bouncy feel encourages extended typing without overwhelming auditory distractions, making them ideal for professional settings. Ultimately, consider what matters most to you—whether it’s the satisfying sound and smoothness of the Jelly switches or the balanced, tactile comfort of the Mini i—as both have their unique strengths catered to different typing styles.
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