HMX Jelly vs. Gateron Weightlessness
An in-depth look at the HMX Jelly and the Gateron Weightlessness switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Jelly and the Gateron Weightlessness exemplify two distinct philosophies in switch design that cater to different user preferences. The HMX Jelly, a linear switch, is celebrated for its super-smooth keystrokes and low-pitched, thocky sound signature, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize a quiet, uninterrupted typing experience. With a lightweight 42g actuation force, it offers effortless key presses, perfect for long typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness, classified as a tactile switch, provides a subtle to moderate tactile feel that enhances the typing experience without being overwhelming. Its balanced sound profile adds to the tactile sensation, making it suitable for users who enjoy feedback with each keystroke. Choosing between these two switches ultimately depends on whether you prefer the smooth gliding of a linear switch or the satisfying tactile bump of a tactile switch. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
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
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the HMX Jelly and the Gateron Weightlessness utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings, which leads to a notable similarity in their acoustic and tactile performances. This common material choice, described as a classic switch housing material, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The relatively soft properties of nylon allow it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, promoting a duller and rounder auditory experience. This characteristic is consistent across both switches, ensuring that typists using either the HMX Jelly or the Gateron Weightlessness can expect a comparable sound signature and level of noise reduction, regardless of the switch's specific mechanics or design.
While the use of nylon for both switches creates a unified sound profile, the overall experience may slightly differ due to design nuances beyond the housing material. Each switch might have varying internal components or builds that affect how the housing's qualities manifest during use. For instance, the bottom housing's influence becomes apparent during the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down, while the top housing may influence the sound experienced on release. Despite both housing types being made of nylon, any differences in internal construction or the mechanism powering the switch could lead to subtle variations in the overall typing experience, even as the foundation—the nylon material—remains consistent.
In summary, both the HMX Jelly and Gateron Weightlessness leverage the acoustic benefits of nylon for their housings, ensuring deep and rounded sound profiles that typists appreciate. Although they share this material and its advantages, these switches may still offer distinct tactile experiences owing to their design differences. Therefore, while the nylon material guarantees certain similarities in auditory feedback and sound absorption, the overall functionality and feel of each switch could vary based on their respective internal mechanisms. Users seeking a specific typing experience should consider these factors, even as they appreciate the acoustic consistency provided by the nylon housings.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, the actuation forces clearly demonstrate a difference in feel. The Jelly requires a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer to type for extended periods without fatigue. In contrast, the Weightlessness switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams, which can provide a more substantial typing experience for users who enjoy a stronger push feel. Additionally, the Jelly has a bottom out force of 48 grams, giving a clear tactile feedback when keys are fully pressed down. However, the Weightlessness switch lacks a specified bottom out force, leaving that aspect unknown but potentially influencing its overall feel. In summary, the Jelly switch is lighter and could be preferable for prolonged use, while the Weightlessness switch offers a heavier actuation for a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Jelly linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Jelly switch the longer option, providing a deeper keypress experience compared to the more responsive, yet potentially abrupt feel of the Weightlessness switch. For gamers who prioritize quick response times, the shorter travel distance of the Gateron Weightlessness may be preferable, as it allows for faster actuation. However, those who favor a more substantial typing experience might find the HMX Jelly switch more suitable due to its greater depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for keypress response 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 Gateron Weightlessness has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Weightlessness for $5.50.
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 sound that provides a satisfying auditory feedback during typing. This audio profile is generally appreciated for its richness and depth, creating an immersive typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch presents a more balanced sound profile that complements its tactile feedback. While the Weightlessness might not have the same pronounced thocky quality as the Jelly, it achieves a subtle to moderate sound that aligns well with its tactile characteristics. It’s important to note, however, that the overall sound experience can vary significantly depending on the keyboard's construction and the choice of keycaps used.
As for feel, the HMX Jelly switches provide a super smooth typing experience, thanks in part to their excellent factory lubrication. This smoothness combined with a lightweight 42g actuation force makes them easy to press, offering an effortless keypress that many linear switch enthusiasts appreciate. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switches deliver a subtle to moderate tactile feel, providing feedback during actuation that gives typists a sense of engagement without being overwhelming. This balance can make the Weightlessness feel more dynamic, especially for those who prefer tactile feedback while typing.
In conclusion, when considering the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, one can expect distinct experiences in sound and feel. The Jelly's deep thocky sound and smooth keystrokes appeal to those who favor a linear switch, while the Weightlessness offers a more balanced audio profile alongside a discernible tactile feedback that certain typists might find preferable. Ultimately, the right choice depends on personal preference, as both switches can cater to different styles of typing while offering high-quality experiences in their respective domains.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, you should consider your specific typing preferences and the kind of experience you want from your keyboard. If you prefer a lighter touch, a super smooth linear feel, and a distinct deep thocky sound signature, the HMX Jelly switch would be an excellent choice. Its low actuation force of 42 grams allows for effortless typing, making it suitable for fast-paced gaming or long typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile typing experience with subtle feedback and a balanced sound profile, the Gateron Weightlessness switch may be more to your liking. The moderate tactile feedback can enhance your typing precision and can be particularly satisfying for general productivity tasks. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal style and how you plan to use your mechanical keyboard, be it for gaming, typing, or a mix of both.
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