HMX Jelly vs. Outemu Dustproof Red

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Jelly and the Outemu Dustproof Red present two compelling options for fans of linear switches, each with its own unique characteristics. The HMX Jelly is celebrated for its low-pitched, deep, thocky sound signature and its incredibly smooth operation, thanks in part to its excellent factory lube and lightweight design, featuring a 42g actuation force that can enhance typing speed and accuracy. On the other hand, while the Outemu Dustproof Red lacks a specific notable sound profile, it is designed for durability and reliability, making it a solid choice for gamers and typists who prioritize a consistent performance without the worry of dust accumulation. Both switches offer a satisfying linear experience, catering to different preferences and priorities. 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 Red Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the HMX Jelly and the Outemu Dustproof Red, a noticeable contrast arises in their top housing materials. The HMX Jelly employs nylon for its top housing, which is known for its softer, more absorbent qualities. This results in a sound profile that is deeper and fuller, making the typing experience feel richer and slightly muted. Conversely, the Outemu Dustproof Red utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which is a much stiffer plastic. This stiffness provides a sharper and crisper sound profile, creating a more pronounced auditory experience during typing. The translucency of polycarbonate also enhances its aesthetic appeal, especially when paired with RGB lighting, allowing the glow to shine through more vibrantly than in a nylon housing.

In terms of the bottom housing, both switches feature nylon, which contributes similarly to the overall sound profile. Given that the bottom housing is primarily responsible for the bottom-out feel and sound when a key is pressed, both the HMX Jelly and Outemu Dustproof Red exhibit a deeper and fuller auditory experience due to the nylon's sound-absorbing properties. While this consistency in material fosters a familiar typing sensation between the two switches, the synergy created by different top materials ultimately yields different results. The combination of the nylon bottom housing in both switches ensures that the core feel remains consistent, but each switch has a unique tone attributable to their respective top housings.

Ultimately, the distinction in top housing materials between the HMX Jelly and the Outemu Dustproof Red leads to variations in auditory feedback while maintaining a consistent tactile experience. While the Jelly offers a more muted and deeper sound due to its nylon top, the Dustproof Red’s polycarbonate top results in a clear and resonant auditory experience during both key presses and releases. However, the presence of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches preserves a certain degree of similarity in feel, aligning the overall typing experience despite their differences. Therefore, users may find that they enjoy distinctive sound profiles while still benefiting from a cohesive touch feel across both options.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Jelly switch possesses a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it an excellent choice for prolonged typing sessions or extensive gaming, as it requires less effort to press the keys. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Red switch features a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a more substantial bottom out force of 60 grams, catering to users who prefer a firmer tactile response and a more robust typing experience. Consequently, while the Jelly switch allows for quicker actuation with less resistance, the Dustproof Red switch offers a more deliberate feeling, appealing to those who appreciate a stronger push during key presses. Overall, the Jelly is the lighter option, whereas the Dustproof Red is the heavier choice, making it crucial for users to evaluate their preferences based on the type of experience they are seeking in their keyboard usage.

Travel distance

The HMX Jelly linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch differ in their travel distances, with the Jelly measuring 3.8 mm and the Dustproof Red at 4 mm. This means that the Dustproof Red provides a longer travel distance, aligning more closely with the traditional 4.0 mm that many users might be accustomed to. For gamers seeking faster response times, the Jelly's shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm may be more appealing, allowing for quicker key presses. However, those who prefer a more pronounced feel when typing or gaming might favor the Dustproof Red switch, which offers a deeper travel experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences regarding responsiveness and feedback.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Jelly linear switch is renowned for its low-pitched, deep, thocky sound signature, which provides a satisfying acoustic experience that many users appreciate. This rich sound profile contributes to a more immersive typing or gaming experience, enhancing feedback without being overly loud. Unfortunately, the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch does not have a well-defined sound characteristic, making it difficult to compare directly. However, it’s essential to remember that the ultimate sound experience of any switch can vary significantly based on the choice of keyboard, materials used, and keycaps selected.

When considering the feel of these switches, the Jelly switch stands out for its super smooth action, attributed to excellent factory lubrication. This smoothness, combined with a lightweight actuation force of 42g, allows for effortless keystrokes that are ideal for both typing and gaming. On the other hand, the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Red switch is not specified, leaving it uncertain whether it can match the smoothness and ease of actuation that the Jelly switch provides. Nevertheless, both switches being linear means they will likely deliver a consistent keystroke without tactile bumps, aiming for a similar user experience in that respect.

In conclusion, while the HMX Jelly linear switch boasts a distinct sound profile and exceptional smoothness due to its factory lube, the Outemu Dustproof Red does not have enough available information to provide a clear comparison. If you prioritize sound and an effortless feel, the Jelly is the better choice. However, with both being linear switches, you're likely to experience a similar typing dynamic in terms of key action, albeit with the Jelly potentially offering a superior auditory and tactile experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences regarding weight, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter touch, the Jelly switch, with its actuation force of just 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, is an excellent choice for those who enjoy quick key presses, such as gamers or typists who favor fast typing speeds. Its deep, thocky sound signature and super smooth feel, attributed to its factory lube, make it ideal for users looking for an engaging auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, if you are seeking a more substantial feel and don’t mind a bit of extra resistance, the Outemu Dustproof Red with its 60 grams bottom out force may cater better to your needs, providing a firmer feedback that some users find reassuring. While it lacks the distinctive sound or smoothness of the Jelly, it may be preferable if you prioritize robustness and durability. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your typing style, comfort preferences, and the kind of feedback you enjoy from your mechanical keyboard switches.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Jelly Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Dustproof Red Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more