HMX Jelly vs. HMX Sunset Gleam

Overview

When exploring mechanical keyboards, switch selection plays a crucial role in the overall typing experience. Among the popular options are the HMX Jelly and the HMX Sunset Gleam, both linear switches that cater to different user preferences. The HMX Jelly is celebrated for its low-pitched, thocky sound signature, delivering a smooth and lightweight feel with a mere 42g actuation force, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a quiet yet satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam, also known as the Duck Duck switch, offers a unique blend of materials that produces a subtle top-out and a pleasing clack sound, all while maintaining the smoothness expected from HMX's well-lubed switches. While both switches provide a linear feel, their distinct auditory and tactile characteristics can lead to very different personal preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you best.

By the numbers

HMX Jelly Linear

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Jelly and the HMX Sunset Gleam, a clear distinction arises between their top housings. The Jelly features a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to absorb sound due to its softer plastic composition. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, giving it a more muted acoustic experience. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and allows for a sharper, higher-pitched sound. The translucent nature of polycarbonate not only contributes to a more resonant sound but also enhances the aesthetic appeal, particularly when RGB lighting is involved. While both switches can offer unique auditory experiences, the Jelly’s nylon top aims for a warmer sound compared to the crisper notes produced by the polycarbonate in the Sunset Gleam.

Conversely, both the HMX Jelly and the HMX Sunset Gleam share the same bottom housing material: nylon. This commonality creates a consistent auditory experience concerning the bottom-out sound and feel. The nylon used in the bottom housing for both switches promotes a deeper tone and dampens the higher frequencies, resulting in a rounded sound profile that is characteristic of nylon materials. Thus, regardless of the difference in their top housings, users can expect a similar auditory experience when it comes to the impact of the bottom housing. This shared characteristic might make it challenging to differentiate the two switches solely based on their bottom-out sound and tactile response, as both will deliver that deep, full sound.

Overall, the primary contrast between the HMX Jelly and the HMX Sunset Gleam lies in their top housing materials, while their bottom housings remain the same. This combination of materials means that users will have access to a nuanced auditory experience, where the nylon bottom of both switches delivers a consistent low-end response, while the Jelly leans towards a mellower sound compared to the more pronounced and bright character of the Sunset Gleam. Such a blend of materials can cater to varying preferences; whether one desires a deeper sound profile or a brighter one, the choice ultimately reflects how the top housing contributes to the overall sound, with the nylon bottom ensuring foundational consistency across both models.

Weight

The HMX Jelly linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch display comparable characteristics, with both switches featuring an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This similarity means that users will experience the same keystroke feel when triggering the switches and when pressing them all the way down. As a result, both switches are classified as light options, making them ideal for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming marathons, as they require less effort to press than heavier switches. Given their equal force specifications, users aiming for a lighter feel can confidently choose either switch without worrying about differences in actuation or bottoming out.

Travel distance

The HMX Jelly linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch differ in their travel distances, with the Jelly having a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Sunset Gleam measures at 3.5 mm. This makes the Sunset Gleam the shorter option, offering a more responsive feel that can be beneficial for gamers seeking quicker actuation. In contrast, the Jelly’s 3.8 mm travel distance provides a deeper, more substantial feedback that some users might prefer for a more tactile experience. Thus, if you favor speed and rapid response times, the Sunset Gleam would be the ideal choice, whereas the Jelly would suit those who enjoy a slightly longer and more deliberate keystroke.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The HMX Jelly switch has a low-pitched, deep, thocky sound signature, providing a sound that is both satisfying and subdued. This sound profile is accentuated by its excellent factory lube, creating a rich auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam, known for its subtle top-out and satisfying clack, offers a different auditory experience that leans towards a crisp sound. This switch also benefits from HMX’s renowned factory lube, contributing to its overall acoustic quality. While both switches prioritize a smooth user experience, their sound signatures cater to different preferences, with the Jelly providing a more muted thock and the Sunset Gleam offering a brighter, more pronounced clack.

When it comes to feel, the HMX Jelly switch is celebrated for its super smooth action, making it a highly enjoyable option for typists and gamers alike. The lightweight 42g actuation force further enhances its responsiveness, allowing for a fluid typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam is noted for its combination of materials that delivers a unique tactile sensation at the top-out while retaining a smooth travel throughout the keystroke. Both switches offer a satisfying and enjoyable feel, making them appealing choices for those who prioritize a premium typing experience.

In conclusion, the HMX Jelly and HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches both present distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to varying preferences. The Jelly’s deep thocky sound and ultra-smooth action create a quiet and pleasant typing experience, while the Sunset Gleam’s subtle clack and unique tactile feedback at the top provide a more dynamic auditory sensation. Ultimately, your choice between them will depend on whether you prefer the deeper, muted sound of the Jelly or the brighter, more pronounced acoustics of the Sunset Gleam, along with the corresponding feel that fits your typing style.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the HMX Jelly linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a switch with a deeper, thocky sound signature and a smooth keystroke, the HMX Jelly is likely the better choice for you. Its lightweight feel with an actuation force of 42 grams allows for effortless typing, making it an excellent option for extended typing sessions or for those who crave a more tactile experience. On the other hand, if you value a subtle yet satisfying clack at the top-out and enjoy a balanced sound profile, the HMX Sunset Gleam may suit you better. With a similar bottom-out force of 48 grams, this switch offers a well-rounded experience and is perfect for both typing and gaming if you appreciate that extra auditory feedback. Ultimately, consider what sound and feel resonate with you the most, and let that guide your decision as you explore the beautiful world of mechanical keyboards.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Jelly Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more