HMX Jelly vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves at a crossroads between the smooth, silent operation of the HMX Jelly linear switch and the distinct auditory feedback of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch. The Jelly is celebrated for its low-pitched, deep, thocky sound signature, providing a satisfying yet subtle experience that appeals to those who prefer a quieter typing environment, thanks to its excellent factory lube and lightweight 42g actuation force. In contrast, the Dustproof Blue offers a more audible and tactile response, making it an excellent choice for typists who enjoy the sound of their keys engaging with a satisfying click. Both switches cater to different preferences: the Jelly is ideal for gamers seeking speed and smoothness, while the Dustproof Blue is perfect for writers who appreciate the feedback of each keystroke. 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

Outemu Dustproof Blue Clicky

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the HMX Jelly and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches, the differences in their top housing materials play a significant role in their overall acoustic properties. The Jelly features a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon’s softer qualities. This material absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Blue is constructed with a polycarbonate top housing, which lends a sharper and crisper sound profile to the switch. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced, appealing to users who prefer a more pronounced auditory response when typing.

Despite the contrasting top housing materials, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing, which is made of nylon for both the HMX Jelly and the Dustproof Blue. This means that regardless of the differences in sound produced by the top housings, the bottom housing's nylon construction will yield a similar deeper and fuller sound profile. This shared material greatly influences the bottoming-out sound and feel of both switches, ensuring that users will experience consistent acoustic characteristics when pressing the keys down, regardless of which switch they are using. As such, the similarities in bottom housing allow for a cohesive sound experience even in the face of divergent top housing materials.

Overall, the interaction between the top and bottom housing materials in these switches highlights an important aspect of mechanical keyboard design: the combined effects of different materials lead to unique sound characteristics and typing experiences. With the Jelly's nylon top producing a warmer sound tempered by the nylon bottom's fuller profile, and the Dustproof Blue’s polycarbonate top delivering clarity while still benefiting from the nylon bottom’s depth, users can expect distinct acoustic signatures tailored to their preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize the sharper clarity offered by polycarbonate or the deeper, rounder sound profile afforded by nylon.

Weight

The HMX Jelly linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch exhibit distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that cater to varied typing preferences. The HMX Jelly features a light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for users who appreciate a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Blue requires a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, which provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a robust feel. Consequently, the Jelly is the lighter option, while the Dustproof Blue is considered medium-heavy. Users looking for less fatigue during prolonged use might gravitate towards the Jelly, whereas those seeking a firmer, more tactile feedback might favor the Dustproof Blue. Overall, the differences in their force requirements highlight the choices available based on individual typing preferences and comfort needs.

Travel distance

The HMX Jelly linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch exhibit distinct travel distances that cater to different user preferences. The Jelly switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Dustproof Blue switch features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. Consequently, those who prioritize responsiveness may prefer the Jelly, as its shorter travel distance can facilitate quicker key presses, making it particularly appealing for gamers. In contrast, the Dustproof Blue's 4 mm travel distance offers a more pronounced keypress experience, which might be favored by users who enjoy a deeper, more tactile feedback when typing. Thus, while both switches deliver unique benefits, the Jelly provides the shorter option, while the Dustproof Blue offers a more traditional and lengthy travel experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Jelly linear switch produces a low-pitched, deep, thocky sound signature that many enthusiasts find pleasing and satisfying during typing or gaming. This sound quality enhances the overall typing experience, providing an auditory feedback that is both subtle and enjoyable. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch does not have a specific sound characteristic noted, leaving its acoustic performance somewhat ambiguous. However, it's important to note that the sound of any switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction, materials used, and the type of keycaps chosen, which will affect the overall sound profile regardless of the switch itself.

When considering the feel, the HMX Jelly switch is renowned for its smooth operation, attributed to excellent factory lubrication that minimizes friction, allowing for effortless key presses. Its lightweight actuation force of 42g gives it a responsive feel, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions or fast-paced gaming. On the other hand, the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch remains unspecified, which leaves potential users without concrete information about its tactile response and overall experience. Typically, a clicky switch like the Blue would have a noticeable tactile bump and an audible click, but without details, it’s impossible to assess how it may compare to the Jelly switch.

In conclusion, the HMX Jelly linear switch offers a well-rounded experience with its satisfying sound and exceptionally smooth feel, making it a strong choice for users who prioritize a refined typing experience. The Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch remains an enigma regarding its sound and feel, leaving potential users wanting more information to properly evaluate its performance. For those seeking a quality typing experience, the Jelly switch stands out, while the Dustproof Blue may offer unique benefits yet to be fully explored.

Conclusion

In summary, the choice between the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a light and smooth typing experience with a satisfying thocky sound, the HMX Jelly switches with their 48-gram bottom-out force may be ideal for you. These switches excel at providing a low-pitched auditory feedback and a soft actuation force of just 42 grams, making them suitable for long typing sessions or gaming marathons where speed and responsiveness are essential. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile and pronounced click with a heavier actuation force, the Outemu Dustproof Blue’s 65-gram bottom-out force will offer a more robust and definitive feedback that can enhance your typing accuracy. While they lack the smoothness of the Jelly switches, they provide satisfying auditory and physical feedback that some users find enjoyable, particularly for typing or in environments where audible confirmation of key presses is appreciated. Ultimately, consider what aspects of a switch are most important to you—whether it's smoothness and lightness with the Jelly or tactile feedback and a satisfying click with the Dustproof Blue—and make your choice accordingly for an optimal typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Jelly Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Dustproof Blue Clicky

$3.10 per 10

Learn more