HMX Jelly vs. Haimu Orange Sea

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, personal preference plays a pivotal role in determining the best option for different typists and gamers alike. The HMX Jelly switch stands out with its low-pitched, deep thocky sound, offering a satisfying auditory experience paired with a super smooth keystroke thanks to its excellent factory lubrication. With a lightweight 42g actuation force, it caters to those who appreciate a responsive feel without the fatigue of heavier switches. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea switch is known for its impeccably smooth typing experience and a neutral sound signature, making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize quiet operation and a seamless feel during long typing sessions. While both switches are linear, appealing to those who prefer a smooth action without tactile feedback, they each offer unique characteristics that may appeal to different users. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Jelly Linear

Haimu Orange Sea Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$2.79 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials used in the HMX Jelly and the Haimu Orange Sea switches exhibit distinct characteristics that significantly influence their acoustic profiles. The HMX Jelly utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for its softer nature and ability to absorb sound. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, providing a muted auditory experience that many users appreciate for its warmth. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea features a polycarbonate top housing, notable for its stiffness, which produces a sharper and more resonant sound. The clarity and brightness of the sound profile are amplified by the polycarbonate material, creating a distinct auditory experience that stands in stark contrast to the Jelly's warmer tones.

When it comes to the bottom housing, both the HMX Jelly and the Haimu Orange Sea employ nylon material. This shared choice means that while the top housings contribute differently to the acoustic results, the bottom housings offer a similar sonic foundation. The nylon’s softer properties ensure a deeper and fuller sound, consistent across both switch types. This similarity in the bottom housing means that regardless of the contrast found in the top housing materials, the fundamental characteristics provided by nylon will allow for a cohesive auditory experience when typing. The impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will predominantly be shaped by the nylon bottom, leading to an overall sound that will share some commonalities despite the differences in the top materials.

In switching operation, the effects of each housing material are complementary, combining to produce a unique typing experience. With the Jelly, the muted and thicker tones from the nylon top work harmoniously with the nylon bottom, enhancing the fullness of each keystroke. Conversely, while the Orange Sea's polycarbonate top adds a clear and bright resonance, it is balanced by the warm depth of the nylon bottom. This interplay allows users of either switch to enjoy a blend of characteristics – the Jelly serving well for those who prefer a subdued sound, while the Orange Sea is ideal for users looking for a more pronounced auditory feedback. Ultimately, both models can lead to similar tactile and auditory outcomes, emphasizing how material choice can define the experience of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch, both exhibit light actuation and bottom out forces, but the Haimu Orange Sea is generally the lighter option. The Jelly switch has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Orange Sea features a slightly lower actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that while both switches are designed for lighter typing experiences conducive to extended use and gaming sessions, the Haimu Orange Sea would be the preferred choice for those seeking an even lighter touch. Conversely, the HMX Jelly provides a marginally heavier feel, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience without being overly taxing. Overall, while both switches cater to users looking for lighter characteristics, the Orange Sea takes the lead in providing an even softer actuation.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch, we see a notable difference: the Jelly has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Orange Sea measures 3.6 mm. This makes the Haimu Orange Sea the shorter option, appealing to gamers who favor quicker response times due to its reduced travel distance. Conversely, the HMX Jelly, with its longer travel distance, may be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper key press, offering a more substantial tactile experience. While both switches cater to different preferences, with the Jelly providing a more pronounced depth and the Orange Sea emphasizing responsiveness, the choice between them should hinge on whether one values speed or feel in their typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Jelly switch showcases a low-pitched, deep, thocky sound signature that can provide a satisfying auditory experience, often preferred by those who enjoy a heavier noise profile when typing. On the other hand, the Haimu Orange Sea switch offers a neutral sound signature, making it less intrusive and potentially more suitable for quieter environments or for users who prefer to avoid distracting noise during typing sessions. It’s important to note that the overall sound experience can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps, meaning that individual setups may yield different auditory results.

Regarding feel, the Jelly switch stands out for its super smooth typing experience, attributed to its excellent factory lube, which enables a seamless actuation. The relatively lightweight actuation force of 42g adds to its user-friendly nature, making it a comfortable choice for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Orange Sea switch is recognized for its impeccably smooth type feel, although it lacks the specific details about the actuation force or other tactile characteristics. Both switches provide a refined, smooth sensation that should satisfy users seeking an enjoyable typing experience.

Ultimately, while both the HMX Jelly and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switches deliver on smoothness, they cater to different sound preferences. The Jelly's thocky sound versus the Orange Sea's neutral profile allows users to choose based on their auditory environment and personal tastes. In terms of feel, both switches excel in delivering a smooth experience, ensuring that whichever choice one makes, they will enjoy a comfortable typing experience. The differences in sound signature can guide users towards their ideal switch based on whether they prioritize a pronounced auditory feedback or a more subdued acoustic environment.

Conclusion

To conclude, selecting between the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch ultimately depends on your preferences for sound and feel when typing or gaming. If you appreciate a low-pitched, deep, thocky sound that enhances the auditory experience while you type, along with an ultra-smooth keypress owing to its excellent factory lube, the Jelly switch would be an ideal choice for you. Its lighter actuation and bottom-out force make it particularly suitable for rapid typing or extended gaming sessions where comfort matters. On the other hand, if you favor a more neutral sound signature combined with an impeccably smooth typing experience, the Haimu Orange Sea switches would be more to your liking. This switch is well-suited for those looking for a reliable, versatile option that performs well without drawing attention to itself acoustically. Ultimately, your decision will hinge on whether you prioritize a thocky auditory feedback with the Jelly or a more subdued, neutral experience with the Orange Sea.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Jelly Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Haimu Orange Sea Linear

$2.79 per 10

Learn more