HMX Jelly vs. Outemu Black

Overview

When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Jelly and Outemu Black stand out as two intriguing linear options, each offering unique qualities. The Jelly switch is celebrated for its low-pitched, deep, thocky sound signature, providing a satisfying auditory experience along with a super smooth keystroke, thanks in part to its excellent factory lube. With a lightweight actuation force of just 42g, it's an excellent choice for those who prefer a nimble typing feel and a quieter environment. In contrast, while the Outemu Black doesn't carry a specific reputation for its sound or feel, it is often chosen for its durability and reliability, appealing to gamers and typists seeking a robust switch that can withstand heavy usage. Both switches have their own strengths: the Jelly is ideal for users who prioritize sound and a lightweight feel, while the Black caters to those who need a more resilient option. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Jelly Linear

Outemu Black Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Jelly and the Outemu Black switches, a distinctive contrast emerges in their top material, with the Jelly housing made of nylon and the Black housing constructed from polycarbonate. Nylon, as a classic switch housing material, provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition, which absorbs more sound and results in a duller, rounder auditory experience. In contrast, polycarbonate, known for its rigidity, induces a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is clean and resonant. Aesthetic considerations also play a crucial role here, as polycarbonate’s translucency allows light to pass through, making it a favored option for RGB lighting setups, while nylon's more opaque appearance does not offer the same visual appeal.

On the other hand, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, bringing a shared characteristic to this aspect of their design. The nylon bottom housing in both the HMX Jelly and the Outemu Black elicits a similar sonic quality, characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile, primarily because of its sound-absorbing properties. This uniformity suggests that regardless of the top housing material, the bottom housing contributes to how each switch feels and sounds when fully pressed down. As users engage with either switch, they will experience the signature deeper, muffled sounds associated with nylon, resulting in a comforting consistency in user experience across both switches.

Ultimately, the combination of different materials for the top and bottom housings leads to a nuanced interaction when a key is pressed and released. The HMX Jelly’s nylon top and bottom maintain a cohesive sound experience, while the Outemu Black's polycarbonate top creates a contrast to the nylon bottom, resulting in a unique sound profile when actuating the key. While the Jelly provides a rounded auditory experience throughout, the Black offers a crisper sound upon release due to its top housing. Users can enjoy similar results through the nylon bottom housing in both switches, which ensures that that desirable deep sound remains intact regardless of the unique contributions from the top housing materials.

Weight

The HMX Jelly linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch exhibit notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces, impacting the overall typing experience. The Jelly switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a gentler touch, ideal for long typing sessions or extended gaming marathons. In contrast, the Outemu Black switch features a significantly heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams, catering to those who enjoy a firmer push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Consequently, typists who prioritize a light touch should lean towards the Jelly switch, while those who appreciate a heavier force may opt for the Black switch. Thus, the key distinction lies in their weight: the HMX Jelly is lighter overall, while the Outemu Black is decidedly heavier.

Travel distance

The HMX Jelly linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch differ in their travel distances, with the Jelly measuring 3.8 mm and the Black measuring 4 mm. This means that the Jelly switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance, catering to those who prefer quicker responsiveness, which is particularly favored by gamers for faster key presses. In contrast, the Black switch provides a longer travel distance of 4 mm, offering a deeper feel that some users might find more satisfying and substantial. Therefore, if you're seeking a faster response time and a lightweight touch, the HMX Jelly would be the more suitable choice, while if you prefer a more pronounced key press experience, the Outemu Black may be preferable.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Jelly linear switch boasts a low-pitched, deep, thocky sound signature that many enthusiasts find satisfying, especially in quieter environments. This acoustics profile contributes to a more robust auditory experience, making typing or gaming feel more immersive. On the other hand, the Outemu Black switch does not have a specific sound profile indicated, which suggests that its acoustic characteristics might be more generic or less distinct compared to the Jelly. However, it's important to note that the sound produced by any switch can also vary based on factors such as the keyboard used and the keycap material.

When it comes to feel, the Jelly switch is celebrated for its super smooth operation, a quality enhanced by the excellent factory lubrication that accompanies it. This smoothness, paired with its lightweight actuation force of 42g, makes the Jelly particularly pleasant for long typing sessions and fast-paced gaming. Conversely, the feel of the Outemu Black switch is not clearly defined, which might imply a more traditional, standard tactile experience that doesn’t stand out as much as the Jelly.

Overall, if you value a distinct auditory profile and exceptional smoothness in your typing experience, the HMX Jelly linear switch is an excellent choice. Its low-pitch sound and lightweight feel combine for an enjoyable user experience. While the Outemu Black may not offer the same level of defined sound or feel, it still can provide a functional and satisfactory experience. Ultimately, both switches may appeal to different preferences, but the Jelly notably sets itself apart with its unique characteristics.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and intended use case. If you prefer a lighter switch with a softer sound profile, the HMX Jelly is an excellent option. With its 48g bottom-out force and a smooth actuation at 42g, it allows for quick, effortless keystrokes, making it well-suited for gaming or extended typing sessions where you want comfort and ease of use. Furthermore, its low-pitched, deep thocky sound adds a satisfying acoustic element that many enjoy. On the other hand, if you desire a firmer typing experience that gives you more feedback with each keystroke, you might gravitate toward the Outemu Black. Its heavier 82g bottom-out force requires more effort, which can provide a stronger tactile presence; this may be preferred by typists who enjoy a more robust feel while they work. Moreover, keep in mind that if you value a specific sound profile and the Black switches don't have a unique auditory signature, this might not be your first choice. Ultimately, both switches have their own distinctive advantages, and understanding your preferences will help you make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Jelly Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Black Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more