HMX Jelly vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the HMX Jelly and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options stand out: the HMX Jelly and the SP-Star RedBlue, both of which are linear switches offering unique characteristics tailored to different preferences. The HMX Jelly is celebrated for its low-pitched, deep, thocky sound signature that provides a satisfying auditory feedback, making it an excellent choice for users who enjoy a smooth typing experience and seek acoustic pleasure with its lightweight 42g actuation force. In contrast, the SP-Star RedBlue offers a medium-light typing experience and also features a relatively low-pitched sound profile, but its more refined tonal nature is described as 'neutral' and 'polished', catering to those who desire a balanced response without sacrificing comfort. While both switches offer unique advantages—smoothness and tactile enjoyment from the Jelly, and a polished, versatile feel from the RedBlue—it's crucial to consider your personal typing style and environment. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
Standard
Stem material
T2
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The HMX Jelly and SP-Star RedBlue use distinct housing materials that significantly influence their auditory profiles and user experiences. The Jelly utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, renowned for being a classic switch housing material. This choice results in a deeper and fuller sound, as nylon's softer plastic composition absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials. Consequently, the typing experience with the Jelly is characterized by a duller and rounder sound profile, which many users may find satisfying and warmer. In contrast, the SP-Star RedBlue features polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate ensures that the auditory feedback is more resonant and clear, enriching the typing experience with a dynamic sound.
When comparing the bottom housings of the two switches, the differences in material continue to emphasize distinct sound characteristics. The Jelly's nylon bottom housing reinforces the overall deep and full sound, as it absorbs sound effectively, contributing to the smoothness experienced during typing. This softer material reduces the impact of the bottom-out sound, thereby creating a more muted end-of-stroke sensation. Conversely, the RedBlue’s polycarbonate bottom housing enhances the typing experience with its clear and resonant sound, making the bottom-out feel sharper and more pronounced. Users might notice that the auditory feedback from the RedBlue can be more stimulating, which can be appealing for those looking for a lively typing experience.
When assessing the overall performance of each switch, the qualities brought by the differing materials also synergize to deliver unique auditory profiles depending on which switch is pressed. While both switches serve similar purposes in terms of keyboard function, the divide between nylon and polycarbonate brings contrasting sensations and sounds into play. The Jelly provides a soundscape that is warm and subdued thanks to the soft nylon, while the RedBlue offers a bright and engaging sound through its polycarbonate build. Ultimately, typing experience is subjective; while common use of nylon may result in a softer auditory feel, polycarbonate can deliver an invigorating crispness, and users may find satisfaction with either based on their personal preferences.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Jelly linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, we notice significant differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Jelly features a light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons without fatigue. In contrast, the RedBlue has an unspecified actuation force but has a heavier bottom out force of 57 grams, categorizing it as a medium-light switch. This suggests that while the Jelly provides a more sensitive feel for quicker responsiveness, the RedBlue may deliver a more substantial typing experience with a firmer push. Overall, the Jelly is lighter, accommodating users who favor softer keypresses, whereas the RedBlue leans towards those who appreciate a more robust keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Jelly linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, the Jelly offers a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the RedBlue has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users of the HMX Jelly will experience a quicker actuation compared to the RedBlue, making it potentially more suitable for gamers seeking faster response times. Conversely, the SP-Star RedBlue, with its greater travel distance, may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial keypress feel and a deeper actuation. In summary, the Jelly is the shorter option, fostering a responsiveness favored by some, while the RedBlue is the longer choice, appealing to users who appreciate a fuller depth in their 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 SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 switch stands out with its low-pitched, thocky sound signature, which delivers a deep and satisfying auditory experience that many typists appreciate. The sound profile is characterized by a rich, bass-heavy quality that adds a certain depth to each keystroke. The SP-Star RedBlue switch, while also low-pitched, offers a more neutral sound profile that remains versatile across various use cases, making it appropriate for both beginners and seasoned typists. The thocky aspect associated with the Jelly enhances the overall experience for those who enjoy a more impactful sound, whereas the RedBlue provides a gentler auditory feedback that may cater well to users looking for a softer note without sacrificing clarity.
When it comes to feel, the Jelly switch is regarded for its super smooth operation, largely attributed to its excellent factory lubrication and lightweight design, which culminates in a pleasant typing experience. The 42g actuation force allows for swift and effortless keystrokes, appealing to users who prioritize speed and ease. Conversely, the RedBlue switch is described as providing a mild, polished experience; it embraces a more gentle typing feel that strikes a balance for typists. The combination of a medium-light actuation and polished finish makes the RedBlue unobtrusive, working well for those who prefer a well-rounded switch that doesn't call too much attention to itself.
Overall, both switches cater to different preferences and playstyles while maintaining certain similarities. The HMX Jelly offers a more pronounced, satisfying sound and an exceptionally smooth typing experience, making it ideal for those who seek a deep thock and ease of use. The SP-Star RedBlue, on the other hand, rewards users with a neutral and gentle typing experience, providing a versatile option without overwhelming the senses. Ultimately, both switches promise an enjoyable typing experience, though your choice will depend on whether you lean towards a more pronounced thocky presence or a balanced, subtle feel while you type.
Conclusion
To wrap up, the choice between HMX Jelly linear switches and SP-Star RedBlue linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you gravitate towards a lighter typing feel, find yourself enjoying a deep, thocky sound, and desire a switch that allows for quick keystrokes with minimal effort, the HMX Jelly is likely the better option for you, especially if you plan to type for extended periods without fatigue. The Jelly switch's 42g actuation force and its super smooth operation, thanks to excellent factory lube, contribute to a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, ideal for both gaming and writing. Conversely, if you prefer a slightly firmer, more controlled typing experience with a medium-light feel and a low-pitched sound that remains versatile for various environments, the SP-Star RedBlue switch might be the way to go. Its 57g bottom-out force provides a balanced typing experience that suits a wide range of users, making it a great choice whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned typist. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so consider your typing style and sound preference as you make your decision.
Mentioned in this article
