HMX Jelly vs. Gateron Type L

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing various factors such as actuation force, sound signature, and overall typing experience. The HMX Jelly switch is celebrated for its low-pitched, thocky sound profile and super smooth actuation, requiring just 42g of force to activate. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer a light touch while still enjoying a satisfying acoustic feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L, a standout from Sillyworks' Project Rehash series, brings its own appeal with a slightly heavier 45g actuation force and a sound signature that leans towards the deeper acoustic realm. This switch aims to combine nostalgia with modern factory lube practices, offering a subdued and feathery feel that many typists might appreciate. Both switches cater to a lightweight touch and appealing sound design, but they each bring unique characteristics that could influence your choice. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Jelly Linear

Gateron Type L Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$4.70 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of both the HMX Jelly and the Gateron Type L switches are made from nylon, which is a classic choice in the mechanical keyboard community. This similarity in materials leads to a comparable typing experience, as nylon is known for its softer properties compared to harder plastics. Typing on switches with nylon housings tends to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, which is echoed in both the Jelly and Type L switches. The inherent characteristics of nylon allow for sound absorption, yielding a more muted and rounded auditory signature that many typists find pleasing. This shared material foundation suggests that users can expect a similar acoustic experience when using either switch.

While the top and bottom housings of both switches are made from nylon, their impact on typing feel and sound varies based on their placement. The Jelly's nylon top housing and its bottom counterpart both contribute equally to creating a uniform sound profile, allowing users to enjoy the soft, dampened sound every time they press a key. In contrast, the Type L's design mirrors this effect, maintaining a cohesive sound experience due to the consistency in using nylon throughout both housings. As you type on either switch, the nylon material's ability to mitigate vibrations serves to enhance the overall acoustic feedback received by the user, thus ensuring that sound quality remains a priority regardless of which switch is being used.

Despite the similarities, one key aspect to consider is how each housing impacts the typing experience on a more tactile level. Since both the Jelly and Type L utilize nylon for both the top and bottom housings, the contribution of each to the bottom-out sound and feel is consistent in both switches. With nylon's softer quality absorbing sound, the bottom-out feel is notably softer and less jarring, creating a smooth typing experience. When letting go of a key, the top housing takes precedence in sound production; however, since both switches have nylon in both sections, the consistency in sound output and tactile feedback is harmonious across the two models, allowing typists to achieve similar results and satisfaction no matter which switch they opt for.

Weight

The HMX Jelly linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch both feature relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable options for users who value extended typing sessions without fatigue. The Jelly has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, while the Type L is slightly lighter, with an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that while both switches are on the lighter side, the Gateron Type L provides an even lighter touch for each keystroke, making it potentially more comfortable for prolonged use. On the other hand, the HMX Jelly features a slightly higher actuation and bottom out force, offering a bit more resistance, which could appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Overall, both switches deliver a similar experience in terms of lightness, but users seeking the lightest option may gravitate towards the Gateron Type L.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, there is a clear difference in their specifications. The HMX Jelly has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Type L features a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Jelly the shorter of the two switches, which may appeal to gamers and users seeking faster response times. In contrast, the slightly longer travel distance of the Type L at 4 mm offers a more traditional feel, potentially preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial keypress experience. While both switches employ linear mechanisms that deliver smooth actuation, the distinct travel distances cater to different user preferences—shorter for crispness and rapid actions, and longer for a more satisfying depth in each keystroke.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Jelly linear switch delivers a low-pitched, deep, thocky sound signature that many enthusiasts find satisfying. Its acoustic profile can create a resonant typing experience, often preferred by those who enjoy noticeably pronounced sounds while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L linear switch features a more neutral sound signature, which strikes a balance that is suitable for a variety of environments, whether at home or in the office. While it leans towards a deeper sound spectrum, its subdued nature offers a dampened noise level, making it less intrusive, especially in quieter settings. Overall, while the Jelly emphasizes a more pronounced auditory feedback, the Type L offers flexibility with its subtler tones.

When it comes to feel, the Jelly switch is known for its super smooth action, facilitated by excellent factory lubrication, combined with a lightweight actuation force of 42g. This provides an effortless typing experience that users are likely to appreciate. Conversely, the Gateron Type L is equally known for its light typing feel, requiring only 45g to bottom out. It is characterized as feathery and easy-to-press, promoting comfort and reducing finger fatigue during extended sessions whether for gaming, studying, or professional work. Both switches prioritize comfort and ease of use, allowing typists to engage in long periods of typing without discomfort.

In conclusion, while the HMX Jelly and Gateron Type L switches exhibit some differences in sound and feel, they both provide a pleasant typing experience characterized by smoothness and a lightweight action. The Jelly caters to those who prefer a deeper sound signature, while the Type L offers a more flexible sound profile, making it suitable for various environments. Ultimately, both switches can yield a satisfying experience, making them excellent choices based on your personal preferences in sound and tactile feedback. Whether you favor a pronounced auditory experience or a more subdued one, you can achieve comfort and enjoyable feel with both models.

Conclusion

In summary, choosing between the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you're drawn to a switch that offers a smooth, thocky sound signature and a slightly heavier actuation feel, the Jelly may be more suited for you. Its deeper sound can create a satisfying auditory experience, particularly if you enjoy a tactile feedback in your typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, if you prioritize a feather-light, almost effortless key press and a more subdued sound profile, the Type L would be the better choice. It pairs modern lubing practices with a neutral and gentle sound, making it ideal for prolonged typing without the strain on your fingers. Both switches exhibit light bottom-out forces, but their differences in sound and feel can significantly influence your overall typing experience. Ultimately, identifying whether you prefer a deeper, more resonant sound or a subtle, restrained profile will help guide your decision between these two enjoyable options.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Jelly Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Type L Linear

$4.70 per 10

Learn more