Jerrzi Coral vs. HMX Gravel

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Jerrzi Coral and the HMX Gravel can significantly impact your typing experience, depending on what you prioritize. The Coral switch stands out for its crisp typing feel and lower-pitched resonance, providing a sophisticated balance that enhances each keystroke with both tactile pleasure and auditory satisfaction. On the other hand, the HMX Gravel switch emphasizes exceptional smoothness and a light actuation force, ideal for those who prefer a more responsive and effortless typing experience. While the Coral may be well-suited for users who appreciate a richer sound profile and a more deliberate feel, the Gravel caters to enthusiasts seeking a buttery-smooth, quick response. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Jerrzi Coral Linear

HMX Gravel Linear

$2.79

$2.30 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Jerrzi Coral and HMX Gravel switches both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which significantly influences their sound profiles. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, contributing to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound quality when typing. This characteristic is particularly beneficial in applications where clarity of sound is paramount, such as in gaming or music production. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for enhanced aesthetic options, especially when paired with RGB lighting. Both switches, sharing this material in their top housings, promise a similar auditory experience, characterized by brightness and clarity.

In contrast, the bottom hosing of both switches utilizes nylon, a material renowned for its ability to produce deeper and fuller sound profiles due to its softer plastic composition. Unlike the polycarbonate tops that deliver a bright and crisp sound, the nylon bottoms help to absorb sound vibrations, creating a rounder and more muted sound signature when the switch is bottomed out. This combination of materials means that while the tops of the switches will resonate with a sharper quality, the bottoms will counterbalance this with a deeper tone, ensuring a balanced auditory experience.

Ultimately, the interplay between the polycarbonate tops and nylon bottoms of both the Coral and the Gravel switches leads to a distinct sound signature that is both crisp and warm. With both switches utilizing the same materials in their respective housings, users can expect a consistent quality in sound performance, despite slight variations in tactile feedback and sound profiles due to their specific designs. Those seeking a combination of brightness in sound with warmth when bottomed out will find both switches similarly effective, making them appealing options for different typing preferences.

Weight

The actuation force and bottom out force of the Jerrzi Coral linear switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch exhibit notable differences. The Coral features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, compared to the Gravel's 45 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, especially during extended use. However, the Gravel also has a defined bottom out force of 50 grams, whereas the Coral's bottom out force remains unknown. This means that while the Coral may feel lighter during regular typing, the lack of a specified bottom out force leaves uncertainty about its overall feel when fully pressed. Consequently, users seeking a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Gravel due to its heavier actuation and defined bottom out force. Thus, while both switches cater to different preferences, the Coral is the lighter option, while the Gravel offers a more tactile and heavy experience, ideal for users who favor a stronger push feel in their typing.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Jerrzi Coral linear switch to the HMX Gravel linear switch, we see that the Coral has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Gravel has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that if you're looking for a snappier response time, the Gravel may be more appealing due to its reduced distance, catering to gamers who favor quicker actuation. However, the longer travel distance of the Coral switch can provide a more substantial feel while typing, which some users may prefer for a more tactile experience. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on whether you favor the shorter, more responsive Gravel or the deeper, more deliberate Coral.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Jerrzi Coral switch produces a low-pitched sound, characterized by its bass-heavy resonance that contributes to a more mellow auditory experience while typing. This tonal quality allows for a more pleasant atmosphere, especially in environments where noise matters, adding a touch of sophistication to each keystroke. Unfortunately, there is no specific sound description available for the HMX Gravel switch, making it impossible to directly compare its auditory characteristics. However, the overall acoustic profile can also be influenced by the keyboard chassis and keycap materials you choose, meaning that even if the Gravel has a different sound signature, the outcome could complement the similarly rich tones produced by the Coral.

When it comes to feel, the Coral switch excels with its silky texture that facilitates an exceptionally smooth typing experience. This quality minimizes resistance as keys are pressed and released, contributing to a delightful sensation that typists often look for in high-end mechanical switches. In comparison, the HMX Gravel switch is noted for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing feel, which suggests a similarly pleasant tactile experience. Both switches cater to users who appreciate a responsive and effortless typing experience, ensuring that regardless of the specific switch chosen, typists will likely find satisfaction in their keypresses.

In summary, while the Jerrzi Coral switch offers a low-pitched sound and a silky feel, the HMX Gravel switch provides an exceptional smooth experience with a medium-light actuation force. Both options seem tailored for enthusiasts who prioritize refinement in their typing experience. Given the similarities in feel, either switch could deliver a comparable typing experience, while the sound difference may hinge on individual setups. Ultimately, both switches cater well to users seeking balanced performance in their mechanical keyboards, allowing for a rewarding typing journey.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Jerrzi Coral linear switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and the kind of experience you seek. If you value a silky smooth typing feel with a distinctively crisp response and enjoy a low-pitched sound that adds a touch of sophistication to your keyboard experience, then the Coral switch is an excellent choice for you. It's perfect for those who want a highly refined tactile experience, making every keystroke delightfully satisfying. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom-out force and crave an effortless typing experience without compromising smoothness, the HMX Gravel switch stands out as a solid option. Its medium-light actuation allows for quick and responsive typing, making it ideal for casual use, gaming, or extended typing sessions where comfort is key. By assessing your priorities—whether it’s the elegant feel of the Coral or the effortless smoothness of the Gravel—you can make an informed choice that enhances your overall typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Jerrzi Coral Linear

$2.79

$2.30 per 10

Learn more

HMX Gravel Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more