HMX Jelly vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown
An in-depth look at the HMX Jelly and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to the world of mechanical keyboards, the choice between the HMX Jelly and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches presents a captivating contrast in typing experience. The HMX Jelly switches are celebrated for their smoothness and a rich, low-pitched thocky sound, offering a satisfying auditory feedback alongside a lightweight 42g actuation force suitable for rapid typing. This makes them an excellent choice for gamers and typists alike who appreciate a more fluid keystroke. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches provide a tactile feedback that caters to those who prefer a more pronounced response with each key press, perfect for typists who rely on sensory confirmation for their input. While the Jelly's emphasis is on a sleek and quiet typing experience, the Dustproof Brown's tactile bump offers a solid and dependable feel. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
T2
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Jelly and the Outemu Dustproof Brown, it is evident that the top housings differ significantly. The HMX Jelly features a nylon top housing, known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic is a result of nylon being a softer plastic, which absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Brown is equipped with a polycarbonate top housing, which delivers a sharper and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. Polycarbonate's transparent quality not only enhances the auditory experience but also benefits aesthetics, especially for setups that utilize RGB lighting. Ultimately, the choice of top housing material leads to distinct sound experiences—softer and rounded with the Jelly versus sharper and more resonant with the Dustproof Brown.
On the other hand, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing material; they are both constructed from nylon. This consistency in the bottom housing means that regardless of the top housing's material, both switches will provide a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon effectively absorbs sound, contributing to a muted auditory feedback that many users find appealing. This shared characteristic ensures that both the HMX Jelly and Outemu Dustproof Brown maintain uniformity in base sound quality, allowing users to experience a more subdued bottom-out sound when pressing the keys. The combined nylon bottom housing thus emphasizes a tactile experience that aligns neatly across both models.
In summary, while the HMX Jelly and the Outemu Dustproof Brown utilize different materials for their top housing and produce distinct sound profiles as a result, they converge with their nylon bottom housings. This similarity means that both switches will deliver a rich, rounded sound experience from the bottom housing, regardless of their top housing differences. Therefore, users can expect a somewhat cohesive auditory experience when bottoming out, while enjoying different sound traits as they release each key. This nuanced interplay of materials fosters a diverse typing experience tailored to individual preferences in sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Jelly linear switch to the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, there’s a clear distinction in both actuation force and bottom out force. The HMX Jelly has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it more suitable for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming, as it requires less force to activate each key. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Brown features a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a significantly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a firmer keypress. While both switches offer unique advantages depending on user preference, the Jelly is generally better for those seeking a lightweight option, while the Dustproof Brown caters to users desiring a medium-heavy feel in their keyboard. Overall, if lighter force is preferred for longer sessions, the Jelly switch would be the ideal choice, whereas the Brown switch is better suited for tactile feedback enthusiasts.
Travel distance
The HMX Jelly linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Jelly switch provides a more responsive feel, making it suitable for gamers who prefer quicker key presses for faster response times. In contrast, the Dustproof Brown, with its longer travel distance, may be more appealing to those who enjoy a more tactile and full-key feel, as it offers a bit more depth in each keystroke. Thus, if you favor a snappier response, the Jelly is the better option, while the Dustproof Brown serves those who prefer a more substantial typing experience.
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 Outemu Dustproof Brown comes in at $3.10 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 is known for its low-pitched, deep, thocky sound signature, which provides a satisfying auditory experience that many typists and gamers appreciate. This deep tone can contribute to the overall ambiance of your workspace, adding a pleasurable acoustic dimension. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch does not have a specified sound profile, making it difficult to compare directly. However, tactile switches like the Dustproof Brown generally produce a softer, more muted sound compared to linear switches, although the specifics of its acoustic characteristics remain unknown.
When it comes to feel, the Jelly switch is celebrated for its super smooth actuation, enhanced by excellent factory lubrication that allows for uninterrupted keystrokes. Its lightweight 42g actuation force means that typing requires less effort, making it a great choice for those who prefer a lighter touch. In contrast, the Dustproof Brown switch, as a tactile switch, typically provides a noticeable bump at the actuation point, offering feedback that can enhance typing accuracy and satisfaction. However, without specific details on the feel of the Dustproof Brown, a direct comparison in this aspect isn't possible.
In conclusion, the HMX Jelly switch stands out for its thocky sound and smooth feel, making it a solid choice for users who enjoy linear switches. The Dustproof Brown switch may offer a different tactile experience with its intended feedback, though specific details on its sound and feel are not available. If you're leaning toward a more acoustic and smooth typing experience, the Jelly is the way to go. Conversely, if you prefer tactile feedback with an unknown auditory profile, the Dustproof Brown could be worth exploring. Overall, both switches can provide enjoyable typing experiences, but your preferences will ultimately guide your choice.
Conclusion
To wrap up, your choice between the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you lean towards a smooth, effortless typing experience with a lightweight feel, the Jelly switch will be your go-to option, especially if you appreciate a deep, thocky sound signature that enhances the auditory experience of your keystrokes. This makes it an excellent choice for gaming and fast-paced typing where speed and comfort are crucial. On the other hand, if you prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback with a medium-heavy resistance, the Dustproof Brown switch will serve you well. It's particularly beneficial for users who enjoy the tactile bump that confirms keystrokes without the loud click, making it suitable for both work and casual typing. Understanding these distinct characteristics will guide you in selecting the switch that aligns best with your typing style and environment.
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