HMX Jelly vs. Outemu Dustproof Green
An in-depth look at the HMX Jelly and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the HMX Jelly and the Outemu Dustproof Green offers distinct experiences tailored to different user preferences. The HMX Jelly, a linear switch, is celebrated for its smooth keystrokes and a low-pitched, thocky sound signature, which provides a satisfying auditory feedback without the interruption of clicks. Its lightweight actuation force of 42g makes it an excellent choice for users who prioritize fast typing or gaming without the resistance of tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Dustproof Green is a clicky switch that appeals to those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory experience with every keystroke. While specific sound characteristics for the Dustproof Green are not detailed, clicky switches are generally favored for their tactile feedback and the satisfying sensation they provide. Each switch has its own set of advantages depending on your typing style and personal preference; the Jelly for a quiet and smooth experience and the Dustproof Green for a more tactile and audible interaction. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
65g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
Plate (3-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 Green, one immediately notices a stark contrast in their top housing materials. The Jelly employs nylon for its top housing, a material renowned for its ability to create a deeper, fuller sound profile. Due to nylon's softer nature, it effectively absorbs sound, leading to a more muted auditory experience. On the contrary, the Dustproof Green features a polycarbonate top housing that distinctly promotes a sharper, higher-pitched sound. The rigidity of polycarbonate ensures a crisper and more resonant sound, making it an appealing choice for those who prefer a more dynamic auditory feedback when typing. This divergence in material not only affects sound qualities but also influences the overall typing experience, as users may gravitate towards either a more subdued or pronounced sound based on their preferences.
Interestingly, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the HMX Jelly and Outemu Dustproof Green utilize nylon, which enables them to share similar auditory characteristics. This consonance in material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for the switches when bottoming out, as nylon's sound-absorbing properties come into play. Users of both switches can expect a more rounded sound signature during key presses, despite the contrasting experiences created by their different top housing materials. This duality highlights how the choice of materials can create a layered auditory experience, allowing users to enjoy a unique typing feel while maintaining a unified sound signature on the bottom release.
Overall, the combination of differing top housing materials and similar bottom housing compositions results in a nuanced typing experience for each switch. While the Jelly’s nylon top produces a soft, muted sound, the Dustproof Green’s polycarbonate top delivers clear, resonant auditory feedback. Nevertheless, the presence of nylon in the bottom housing for both switches ensures that their sounds share a common ground, resulting in a deeper base note during key presses. Such material dynamics exemplify how thoughtful selection can play a critical role in shaping the user experience, allowing keyboard enthusiasts to choose their preferred sound profiles without compromising on the depth and quality at the bottom of the keystroke.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, there is a notable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX Jelly features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it well-suited for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, ideal for long sessions at work or gaming. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Green switch has a significantly heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial push feel while typing. This disparity in weight means that typists or gamers who favor lighter switches may gravitate towards the Jelly, while those who seek a firmer touch and feedback might prefer the Green. Consequently, if you desire a lighter option for extended use versus a heavier option for a more tactile experience, the HMX Jelly and Outemu Dustproof Green provide distinctly different experiences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, a notable difference is evident. The Jelly switch features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Dustproof Green boasts a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This makes the Jelly the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times due to its reduced distance. On the other hand, the Dustproof Green provides a more traditional depth, which some users prefer for a more tactile and satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences regarding responsiveness versus depth in key presses.
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 Green 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 characterized by its low-pitched and deep thocky sound signature, offering a satisfying auditory experience that many enthusiasts enjoy. This type of acoustic feedback can enhance the overall typing experience, providing a sense of volume and richness. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch does not have any specified sound qualities. However, clicky switches typically offer a distinct and sharp auditory signal with each keypress, which contrasts with the smoother, less pronounced sound of linear switches like the Jelly. The overall sound produced can still vary depending on the keyboard build and keycap material used, so individual results may differ.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Jelly switch is renowned for its super smooth keystrokes thanks to excellent factory lube, which reduces friction and enhances the overall typing experience. Coupled with its lightweight actuation force of 42g, it allows for a nimble and effortless typing experience. In contrast, the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Green switch is not explicitly detailed, making it difficult to make a direct comparison. However, clicky switches typically provide more tactile feedback at the actuation point, which some typists find satisfying and enjoyable, creating a different tactile sensation than that of a linear switch.
In summary, the HMX Jelly linear switch is favored for its rich, deep sound and smooth feel, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize a pleasant auditory and tactile experience. While the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch lacks detailed sound and feel descriptions, it is likely to offer the distinctive clicky feedback that typists enjoy. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences regarding sound and feel, but those seeking a more refined, linear switch experience may gravitate towards the Jelly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, your choice between the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a smoother typing experience with a lighter touch, the Jelly is an excellent option. Its low actuation force of 42 grams and light bottom out force of 48 grams make it ideal for those who enjoy fast-paced typing or gaming, along with the deep, thocky sound that adds a satisfying auditory element without being overly loud. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile feel and are looking for feedback in the form of a pronounced click, the Outemu Dustproof Green may be the better choice. With a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, it offers a firmer resistance, making each keystroke feel more deliberate and providing a traditional typing experience that many find enjoyable. Ultimately, consider your typing style and sound preference to determine which switch aligns best with your needs.
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