HMX Jelly vs. Cherry MX Red

Overview

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Jelly and Cherry MX Red are two popular linear options that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The HMX Jelly is celebrated for its low-pitched, deep thocky sound signature and lightweight actuation force of 42g, making it an excellent choice for users seeking a super smooth typing experience with less resistance. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red offers a slightly heftier feel, delivering a robust and satisfying auditory depth with each keystroke. While both switches provide linear smoothness, the Jelly excels in a lightweight approach, while the MX Red balances responsiveness with a deeper sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Jelly Linear

Cherry MX Red Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$5.90

$4.00 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials for both the HMX Jelly and Cherry MX Red switches are constructed from nylon, a material celebrated in the keyboard community for its acoustic properties. Both switches feature nylon for their top and bottom housings, allowing them to create a similar sound profile when typing. This common material utilization results in a deeper and fuller auditory experience that is characteristic of switches made with nylon. The softness of nylon helps absorb sound, mitigating harsh echoes and producing a more subdued keypress sound, which enhances the overall typing experience for users who prioritize a quieter operation.

Notably, while both switches utilize the same nylon material for their housings, the design and implementation may lead to slight variations in tactile feedback and sound nuances. For instance, the configuration of the internal switch mechanism could influence how the softness of the nylon is expressed during key actuation. However, since both the Jelly and the Cherry MX Red benefit from a nylon construction, users can expect similar advantages in terms of typing acoustics. The consistent material choice aligns with their broader functional goals, aiming to deliver a balanced sound profile and responsive feel.

Ultimately, the similarities in the housing materials suggest that users will experience comparable outcomes in their typing performance with either switch. The dominance of nylon in both switches ensures that the foundational sound characteristics—such as a softer thudding sound and a more rounded auditory feedback—are preserved across both models. Therefore, whether one chooses the HMX Jelly or the Cherry MX Red, they can anticipate a satisfying typing experience marked by pleasant acoustics and dependable functionality, thanks to the shared qualities of nylon utilized in their respective top and bottom housings.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Jelly linear switch to the Cherry MX Red linear switch, the actuation forces differ slightly, with the Jelly requiring 42 grams and the MX Red needing 45 grams. This makes the HMX Jelly the lighter option, which can be advantageous for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, especially during extended sessions. On the contrary, the MX Red, being heavier, may appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial feel when typing. Regarding bottom-out force, the Jelly has a measurable force of 48 grams, while the bottom-out force for the MX Red is unknown. Consequently, while both switches offer a smooth linear feel, the Jelly provides a lighter touch across both actuation and bottom-out, potentially making it more suitable for users looking for a gentler keystroke. In contrast, the MX Red's heavier actuation might cater to users seeking a more authoritative response in their keystrokes.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The HMX Jelly switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Cherry MX Red switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the HMX Jelly the shorter option, which can provide a more responsive feel for users who prioritize quicker actuation, such as gamers. Conversely, the Cherry MX Red, with its 4 mm travel distance, offers a deeper key press that some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, if you're looking for faster response times, the HMX Jelly would be the better choice, while those favoring a more traditional feel might lean towards the Cherry MX Red.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Jelly linear switch stands out with its low-pitched, deep, thocky sound signature. Users can expect a satisfying auditory experience characterized by rich, dull thuds when keys are pressed and released, offering a comforting feedback during typing. In comparison, the Cherry MX Red switches produce a similar thocky sound, complementing their slightly heftier feel with a robust auditory depth. This results in a deep and rich sound profile that many users find satisfying, making them ideal for those who appreciate the audible feedback of keystrokes. While both switches deliver a satisfying sound experience, the actual acoustics can vary based on the keyboard build and keycap material, suggesting that users could achieve a comparable auditory experience depending on their setup.

Regarding the feel of the switches, the HMX Jelly linear switch is known for its super smooth operation, enhanced by excellent factory lubrication and a relatively lightweight actuation force of 42g. This contributes to a seamless typing experience, making it exceptionally responsive and enjoyable for long typing sessions. On the other hand, Cherry MX Red switches are well-regarded for their consistency and reliability but offer a slightly heftier feel that might not be as smooth as the Jelly. Some users describe the MX Red as having a subtle texture that can be noticeable during presses, though it is generally still considered a linear switch. Thus, while the Jelly offers a lighter and potentially smoother typing experience, the MX Red provides a more traditional yet still satisfying feel.

In conclusion, while both the HMX Jelly and Cherry MX Red linear switches offer similar auditory profiles characterized by a thocky and deep sound, they differ in the subtleties of feel. The Jelly excels in providing a super smooth and lightweight experience, while the MX Red delivers a slightly heftier and textured feel. This means that while you can enjoy a comparable auditory experience with either switch, your choice will ultimately hinge on your preference for the tactile sensation during use. Ultimately, each switch has its distinct charm, and selecting one over the other will depend on what qualities resonate more with your typing style and preferences.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between HMX Jelly linear switches and Cherry MX Red linear switches ultimately hinges on your personal preferences for sound and feel while typing. If you favor a lighter switch that provides a low-pitched, thocky sound signature along with an incredibly smooth typing experience, the HMX Jelly switches are an excellent option. Their low actuation force of 42 grams makes them particularly appealing for users who enjoy a responsive feel and a more effortless typing motion. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly heftier touch, coupled with a rich auditory experience, the Cherry MX Red switches would suit you better. While they offer a robust feel, their textured nature provides a layer of feedback during typing that some may find satisfying. Ultimately, if you prioritize a quieter, more fluid typing style, go for the HMX Jelly; however, if you appreciate a solid tactile response and deeper sound profile, the Cherry MX Red is the way to go.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Jelly Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Cherry MX Red Linear

$5.90

$4.00 per 10

Learn more