HMX Jelly vs. HMX Twilight
An in-depth look at the HMX Jelly and the HMX Twilight switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between options that enhance their typing experience in unique ways. The HMX Jelly and HMX Twilight are two linear switches that offer distinct qualities appealing to different preferences. The Jelly is celebrated for its low-pitched, deep thocky sound signature, making it an excellent choice for users who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback. With a lightweight actuation force of just 42g and exceptional factory lubrication, the Jelly switch guarantees a smooth typing feel that many find delightful. In contrast, the HMX Twilight stands out with an extended 3.85mm travel distance, providing a slightly quieter experience while still retaining the signature clacky characteristics of HMX switches. This switch is ideal for those who seek a balanced actuation feel that doesn’t compromise on auditory feedback. Both options cater to varying preferences in sound, feel, and overall typing experience; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.85 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T2
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the HMX Jelly and the HMX Twilight employ nylon for their top and bottom housings, leading to some intriguing similarities in their sound profiles and tactile feedback. Since both types utilize nylon, typing on either switch yields a deeper and fuller sound due to the material's ability to absorb sound effectively. This absorption is a result of nylon being a relatively softer plastic, which dampens the harsher noises typically produced by more rigid materials. Consequently, both the Jelly and Twilight will provide users with a rounded and muted auditory experience, appealing to those who prefer a quieter typing environment.
In terms of performance, the similarities extend beyond just the material; they also include the resultant typing sensations. When using either the Jelly or Twilight, the bottom housing—being made of the same nylon—will contribute significantly to the perception of the bottom-out sound and feel. Users will experience a consistent feedback mechanism when bottoming out on either switch, leading to a similar tactile experience. The combination of the nylon in both sections works synergistically to produce a balanced and enjoyable typing experience, showcasing the effectiveness of this classic material in switch design.
While both switches share the same housing materials, the effects of the housing on sound and feel remain consistent across the two models. The top housing's properties will slightly influence the characteristic sound when releasing the key, but given that both the Jelly and Twilight utilize the same nylon composition, the overall typing experience remains uniform. Users can expect similar results in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback, making either choice an appealing option for those who prioritize softer, more muted key sounds paired with reliable performance.
Weight
The HMX Jelly and HMX Twilight linear switches both share the same actuation force of 42 grams, making them equally light in terms of keystroke activation. This similarity allows users to expect a comparable typing experience when it comes to initiating a keystroke, which is beneficial for those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. However, the bottom out forces differ slightly: the Jelly has a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Twilight's is slightly heavier at 50 grams. This means that the Jelly switch will feel a bit less forceful when bottoming out, providing a gentler, more cushioned experience. Conversely, the Twilight's higher bottom out force may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Overall, while both switches excel in lighter actuation, the Jelly is the lighter overall option, perfect for prolonged use, while the Twilight caters to those who enjoy a slightly firmer touch at the end of a keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the HMX Jelly linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, we find distinct differences that cater to varying preferences among users. The HMX Jelly has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the HMX Twilight features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.85 mm. This makes the Jelly the shorter option, ideal for gamers or users seeking quicker response times, as its reduced distance allows for faster actuation. On the other hand, the Twilight's 3.85 mm travel distance provides a more substantial depth, which some users may find more comfortable and satisfying during use. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on whether one prefers the quicker actuation of the Jelly or the more substantial feel of the Twilight.
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 HMX Twilight has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Twilight for $3.29.
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 produces a low-pitched, deep, thocky sound signature that many enthusiasts find appealing for its satisfying auditory feedback. This sound is a result of its construction and design, emphasizing a fuller, deeper tone that can enhance the typing experience for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory cue. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight switch has a slightly quieter profile due to its extended 3.85mm travel distance, which dampens some of the sound produced during key presses. However, it maintains the signature clacky characteristics typical of HMX switches, offering a different flavor of auditory feedback but still resonating with enthusiasts who appreciate a more subtle sound.
When it comes to feel, the Jelly switch is celebrated for its super smooth operation, thanks in part to excellent factory lube, making it a delightful choice for smooth key presses. With a lighter actuation force of 42g, it provides a gentle and responsive touch that is especially enjoyable for fast typists or gamers who favor swift, unobtrusive keystrokes. In contrast, the Twilight switch may offer a different tactile experience due to its slightly different design, though specifics about its smoothness or tactile feedback are unknown. The extended travel distance could contribute to a more deliberate typing experience, but without further details, it’s hard to pinpoint its specific feel compared to the Jelly.
In conclusion, while the HMX Jelly linear switch provides a deep, thocky sound and an exceptionally smooth feel favorite among users who prioritize a rich auditory experience and light actuation, the HMX Twilight linear switch offers a quieter and clacky sound with the potential for a distinct tactile feel due to its longer travel distance. Both switches cater to varied preferences, and choosing between them will largely depend on individual sound and feel preferences. If you enjoy the Jelly, you may find the Twilight to also suit your needs, albeit with a slightly different auditory profile.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Jelly and the HMX Twilight linear switches, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences in sound and feel. If you prefer a lighter switch with a more pronounced acoustic signature, the Jelly is a great choice due to its low-pitched, deep thocky sound and smooth actuation. With a 42g actuation force and a bottom-out force of 48 grams, this switch is excellent for fast typing and provides a satisfying tactile experience without too much resistance. On the other hand, if you’re inclined toward a switch that offers a slightly heavier feel with a longer travel distance, the HMX Twilight might suit you better. Its 50-gram bottom-out force and 3.85mm travel distance allow for a quieter sound profile while still retaining that characteristic clack. This can be a plus if you're typing in quieter environments or need a balance between feedback and noise. In summary, choose the Jelly for a lighter touch and pronounced sound or opt for the Twilight if you want a more robust feel with a quieter profile.