HMX Jelly vs. Everglide Rice Pudding
An in-depth look at the HMX Jelly and the Everglide Rice Pudding switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Jelly and Everglide Rice Pudding present two distinct yet appealing options for different types of users. The HMX Jelly, known for its low-pitched, deep thocky sound signature, offers a super smooth typing experience thanks to its excellent factory lube and lightweight 42g actuation force. This linear switch is ideal for those who prefer a quiet yet satisfying keystroke without the tactile bump often found in other switch types. In contrast, the Everglide Rice Pudding switch features a hall effect mechanism that provides a perfect balance of smooth operation and a gratifying deep sound. Its design not only ensures a satisfying typing experience but also enhances precision, making it a fantastic choice for gamers and enthusiasts alike; plus, it's fully compatible with Wooting's innovative keyboards, adding a layer of versatility for those seeking high performance. While both switches have their unique strengths, users may gravitate toward the Jelly for a lighter, seamless feel or the Rice Pudding for a robust yet refined experience. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Spring
Custom stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Jelly and the Everglide Rice Pudding, the most significant distinction lies in their top housings. The Jelly features a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively soft composition. This allows the nylon to absorb more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller auditory experience. Conversely, the Rice Pudding uses a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer nature, which generates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The contrasting acoustic qualities of these two materials suggest that while the Jelly is designed for those who prefer a mellow typing experience, the Rice Pudding caters to users looking for clarity and resonance in their keystrokes.
Despite the variation in the top housing materials, both the HMX Jelly and Everglide Rice Pudding utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This shared characteristic ensures a consistent deeper and fuller sound profile during typing, as nylon absorbs sound effectively, regardless of the differences present in the top housing. As a result, while the sound signature of the Jelly is predominantly influenced by its nylon top, the Rice Pudding's sound is shaped by its polycarbonate top, the nylon bottom in both switches still provides a level of uniformity to the overall auditory experience. Consequently, the two models exhibit a blended sound profile, combining a fuller bottom-out feel from the nylon with varying characteristics shaped by the distinct top materials.
Ultimately, the choice between the HMX Jelly and the Everglide Rice Pudding will come down to personal preferences regarding sound and feel. The Jelly's nylon top embraces a softer, more subdued auditory profile, while the Rice Pudding's polycarbonate top appeals to those who prioritize clarity and brightness in their key presses. However, because the bottom housings of both switches are made from nylon, users can expect a consistent foundation of sound dampening and enhanced tactile feedback across both models. In essence, while the materials of the top housings yield different results, the similar bottom housing ensures a level of cohesiveness in performance that makes either option appealing based on personal typing style and aesthetic preference.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch, both are relatively light, making them suitable for users looking for a comfortable typing experience during extended sessions. The Jelly switch has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Rice Pudding switch features a slightly lighter actuation force of 38 grams with the same bottom out force of 48 grams. This means that the Rice Pudding switch allows for easier actuation, which can benefit those who prefer less resistance when typing or gaming. Both switches share the same bottom out force, resulting in similar experiences when pressed all the way down. Overall, if you prefer a lighter switch with a lower actuation force, the Everglide Rice Pudding would be the better choice, whereas the HMX Jelly offers a slightly firmer feel while still maintaining a lightweight profile.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch, we find a notable difference that may influence user preference. The Jelly switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it the longer option, while the Rice Pudding switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter. This difference in travel distance suggests that gamers or users seeking faster response times might appreciate the Rice Pudding switch for its quicker actuation. On the other hand, those who prefer a more pronounced feel and depth when pressing a key may favor the Jelly switch due to its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences regarding responsiveness and tactile feedback.
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 Everglide Rice Pudding has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Rice Pudding for $6.79.
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 a low-pitched, deep, thocky tone, providing a rich auditory experience during typing. This sound is not only pleasant but also adds to the overall satisfaction of using the switch. On the other hand, the Everglide Rice Pudding switch offers a similarly appealing sound profile, delivering a perfect blend of smooth operation and a deep sound. Both switches contribute to a satisfying auditory feedback, although the specific characteristics may vary slightly due to factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycap materials. Overall, users can expect a pleasing sound experience from both options.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Jelly switch excels with its exceptionally smooth operation, a feature attributed to its excellent factory lubrication. This smoothness is coupled with a lightweight actuation force of 42g, making it easy to press and ideal for long typing sessions. The Everglide Rice Pudding switch also emphasizes smoothness in its operation, coupled with a balanced and satisfying typing experience that enhances precision. While both switches prioritize smoothness, the Jelly's lighter actuation may appeal more to those who prefer a less effortful typing experience, while the Rice Pudding could cater to those who enjoy a more balanced touch.
In conclusion, both the HMX Jelly linear switch and Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch present compelling options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. With their deep sound signatures and smooth operation, they cater to different preferences without compromising on quality. The Jelly provides an easy and lightweight typing experience, while the Rice Pudding balances smoothness and precision, making them strong contenders for anyone looking to elevate their typing game. Ultimately, the choice between the two may come down to personal preference regarding sound and actuation feel, but either option promises a satisfying experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between HMX Jelly linear switches and Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you prioritize a lightweight touch with a deeper and more resonant sound profile, the HMX Jelly switches may be the ideal choice for you. Their super smooth feel, enhanced by exceptional factory lubrication, makes them particularly enjoyable for long periods of typing or gaming where speed and comfort are paramount. On the other hand, if you seek a balance of smooth operation and satisfying acoustics, look no further than the Rice Pudding switches. Their versatility, combined with full compatibility with Wooting's keyboards, provides not just enjoyment in tactile feedback but a refined and precise typing experience as well. Ultimately, you should consider what matters most to you: the Jelly's unique sound and effortless feel or the Rice Pudding's adaptability and pleasing feedback, to make the most informed decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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