HMX Jelly vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the HMX Jelly and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often boils down to personal preference and typing style, and two popular options highlight this dynamic beautifully: the HMX Jelly and the Durock T1. The HMX Jelly, a linear switch, is celebrated for its super smooth keystrokes and a low-pitched, deep thocky sound signature, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists who prefer a quieter, fluid experience. With its lightweight actuation force of 42g, it allows for quick, effortless key presses. In contrast, the Durock T1 is a tactile switch that offers a satisfying medium bump during key presses, accompanied by a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. This richer acoustic experience caters to those who appreciate feedback with each stroke, enhancing the overall typing comfort and engagement. While the Jelly is ideal for those seeking a seamless and quiet typing experience, the T1 appeals to users who thrive on tactile sensations and auditory cues. 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
67g
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the HMX Jelly and the Durock T1 switches, distinct differences emerge, particularly with the top housings. The Jelly features a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to deliver a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, tends to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a muted and rounded auditory experience. In contrast, the Durock T1 utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Polycarbonate is a stiffer material, leading to a more pronounced resonance that engages the listener with its clarity. This fundamental difference in material affects the overall acoustic feedback of each switch, influencing how users perceive their typing experience.
However, both the HMX Jelly and Durock T1 switch designs employ nylon for their bottom housings, making this aspect a commonality between the two. Just like the Jelly, the T1's nylon bottom housing provides a rich and full sound characteristic. The nylon’s capacity to absorb sound plays a significant role in mellowing out the sharper highs produced by the T1's polycarbonate top housing. Therefore, while the top housings create contrasting auditory profiles—one being deeper and muted while the other is bright and crisp—the shared nylon bottom results in a consistent auditory experience featuring rounded and subdued lower frequencies. This convergence in materials highlights how a single component can harmonize the overall sound signature, even when the top housings differ.
Ultimately, users will find that the sound interaction and key feel between the HMX Jelly and Durock T1 switches will be shaped by their respective materials in varying ways. The Jelly's combination of nylon for both housings will ensure a harmonious and soft typing experience, particularly suitable for those who favor a more subdued auditory environment. Meanwhile, the T1's design, with its polycarbonate top housing contrasting with a nylon bottom, provides a unique blend where the tightness of the top’s sound can elevate the user’s experience, particularly when using RGB lighting to showcase the clear translucency of the polycarbonate. As a result, both switches present unique benefits while also achieving similar auditory depth through their shared nylon bottom housing, appealing to different preferences among typists.
Weight
The HMX Jelly linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for different typing preferences. The Jelly switch has a light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, which caters to those who prefer a softer touch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. Conversely, the T1 switch, with a bottom out force of 67 grams and an unknown actuation force, leans towards a medium-heavy feel, appealing to users who favor a more substantial typing experience. Since the Jelly is lighter overall, it is preferable for users seeking comfort during long usage, while the Durock T1 offers a firmer resistance, which can be more satisfying for typists who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, if users are looking for a more effortless typing experience, the HMX Jelly would be a better choice, while the Durock T1 may be more enjoyable for those desiring a heavier switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, the HMX Jelly has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Durock T1 measures 4 mm. This means that the Jelly offers a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times and a more responsive feel. On the other hand, the Durock T1, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more pronounced bottoming out experience that some users prefer for a hearty depth during typing or gaming. Ultimately, those who prioritize quicker actuation might lean towards the HMX Jelly, while those favoring a more substantial tactile feedback may opt for the T1.
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 Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 celebrated for its low-pitched, deep, and thocky sound signature. This characteristic gives it a rich acoustic profile that is often preferred in environments where a more satisfying auditory feedback is desired. Conversely, the Durock T1 tactile switch features a sound profile that can be described as low-pitched and neutral. The T1’s sound is reminiscent of raindrops falling against a window, providing a pleasant and calming auditory experience. While the Jelly switch offers a more pronounced thocky sound, the T1 achieves a balanced tone suitable for various environments, emphasizing that the actual sound experience can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Jelly switch is recognized for its super smooth operation, which is largely attributed to excellent factory lubrication and a lightweight 42g actuation force. This results in a typing experience that minimizes friction and maximizes fluidity, making it ideal for users who prefer a seamless keystroke without tactile interruptions. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch offers a distinctly different tactile feedback, characterized by a medium bump during keypresses. This stepped tactile feel provides a satisfying yet mild feedback that is accentuated with a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and a smooth travel experience. While both switches excel in their respective areas, they cater to different preferences—smoothness versus tactile response.
In conclusion, the HMX Jelly linear switch presents a deep, thocky sound along with a super smooth feel, making it perfect for those who prefer a seamless linear experience. Comparatively, the Durock T1 tactile switch offers a low-pitched neutral sound paired with a comfortable, stepped tactile feel. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and the kind of auditory and tactile feedback you value most. Whether you seek the smoothness of the Jelly or the tactile engagement of the T1, both switches can deliver a high-quality typing experience tailored to different styles.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between HMX Jelly linear switches and Durock T1 tactile switches ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended usage. If you find yourself leaning towards a lighter key feel with a buttery smooth action and enjoy a deep, thocky sound signature, the Jelly switches may be the ideal pick for you. They are particularly suited for those who prioritize speed and fluidity, making them excellent for gaming or high-paced typing environments. Conversely, if you appreciate tactile feedback that enhances your typing experience and prefer a more substantial key press combined with a lush, rain-like sound, the T1 switches would likely suit you better. Their medium-heavy bottom-out force and comfortable tactile bump provide a satisfying experience, especially for typical office work or prolonged typing sessions. In essence, consider your typing style, the type of work you do, and whether you desire a lighter, smoother action versus a tactile, deliberate feel when making your choice.
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