HMX Cheese vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Jerrzi Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the HMX Cheese, a linear switch, and the Jerrzi Violet, a tactile switch. The Cheese switch is praised for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, as well as its satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. On the other hand, the Violet switch is known for its gentle tactility and smooth actuation, providing a balanced and enjoyable typing experience with a neutral sound profile. If you prefer a lighter switch with a unique sound profile, the HMX Cheese may be the way to go. However, if you value tactility and a smooth typing experience, the Jerrzi Violet could be the better choice for you. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
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 single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Cheese and Jerrzi Violet switches differ in their top housing material. The Cheese features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Violet utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate also allows for better clarity and resonance, making it suitable for switches with RGB lighting. Despite these differences, both materials contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches, with nylon offering a duller and rounder sound while polycarbonate provides a more clear and resonant sound.
On the other hand, the bottom housing materials of the HMX Cheese and Jerrzi Violet switches are both made of nylon. This classic switch housing material elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is known for its softer nature that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housing. Despite the same materials being used for the bottom housing, the impact of the bottom housing on the sound and feel of the switch's bottom-out may vary depending on other factors of the switch design.
While the housing materials of the HMX Cheese and Jerrzi Violet switches may differ in their top housing, they both provide unique sound profiles based on their specific material properties. The split between the qualities each housing material brings to the switch, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Whether it's the softer, more absorbent nylon of the Cheese or the stiffer, more resonant polycarbonate of the Violet, both materials play a crucial role in defining the overall typing experience and sound output of these switches.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch reveals some interesting differences. The Cheese has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Violet's 45 grams, making the Cheese a slightly lighter option. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cheese requires 46 grams to fully press down, while the Violet's bottom out force is unknown. This difference in bottom out force suggests that the Cheese may provide a more consistent typing experience in terms of force required throughout the keystroke. Overall, those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the HMX Cheese, while those who enjoy a stronger push feel might lean towards the Jerrzi Violet, depending on their personal preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Cheese linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. However, there is a slight difference in the travel distance between the two switches, with the Violet having a slightly longer distance. For those who prefer a more abrupt feel, the Cheese may be the preferred option, while those who prefer a slightly deeper press may opt for the Violet. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar feel and performance, with only a slight variation in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $3.79.
The Jerrzi Violet has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet for $2.30.
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
When comparing the sound qualities of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, the Cheese offers a more distinctive clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, while the Violet provides a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users. The choice between these switches will ultimately come down to personal preference, as some may prefer the more unique sound of the Cheese, while others may prefer the balanced and pleasing sound of the Violet. It is important to keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the HMX Cheese is known for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, but specific details about its tactile feel are not provided. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet offers a stepped tactile feel, meaning that it has a two-stage tactile sensation with mild pre-travel and/or post-travel. For users who prefer a more subtle tactile experience, the Violet may be the preferred choice, while those who prioritize smoothness and precision in their typing may lean towards the Cheese.
In conclusion, the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch each have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cheese stands out for its ultra-light actuation and distinctive sound profile, while the Violet offers a gentle tactility and a balanced typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, so it is recommended to try both to see which one best fits your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you prioritize a smooth and ultra-light typing experience with a satisfying clacky sound, the HMX Cheese switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a gentle tactile switch with a smooth actuation and a balanced sound profile, the Jerrzi Violet switch would be a great option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a light linear switch or a tactile switch with a poppy tactility. Each switch offers a unique typing experience, so it's important to choose the one that best suits your personal preferences.
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