Jerrzi Coral vs. Gateron Mars
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Coral and the Gateron Mars switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Jerrzi Coral and Gateron Mars both offer compelling options for typists seeking a smooth, linear experience. The Coral switch stands out with its distinctly crisp typing feel and lower-pitched resonance, providing a balanced blend of nuanced sophistication and stellar performance that enhances every keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Mars switches highlight their innovative design, utilizing a POK stem constructed with a housing made from a blend of Nylon and POM, which contributes to a unique tactile experience. While the Coral appeals to users who value a silky-smooth feel paired with a delightful auditory signature, the Mars caters more to those who prioritize a durable construction and cutting-edge design. 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
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Jerrzi Coral and the Gateron Mars switches highlight a distinct divergence in sound profiles attributable to their respective top housings. The Coral features a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to its stiffness, which contributes to a clearer resonance. In contrast, the Mars utilizes a nylon top housing, a classic material that delivers a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon, being a softer plastic, tends to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, leading to a less pronounced but richer auditory experience. Thus, while the Coral's top housing is engineered for clarity and brightness, the Mars's nylon housing shines in delivering warmth and depth.
At the bottom of the switches, the materials further differentiate the Jerrzi Coral from the Gateron Mars. Both switches implement nylon in their bottom housing, which provides a deeper and more fulfilling sound profile. However, the Mars utilizes POM (Polyoxymethylene) for its bottom housing, which adds an intriguing twist to its sound characteristics by creating a more muted, yet unique acoustic response. The POM material offers a satisfying sound that leans towards a deeper profile, aligning with the nylon's softer characteristics. Although both incorporate nylon, the Coral's consistent use of nylon across both top and bottom leverages its capacity to absorb sound for a more uniform auditory experience, while the Mars combines the attributes of both nylon and POM to create a distinct dual-layered sound signature.
When sound profiles from these switches are considered, the impacts of their housing materials become more nuanced. The differences in the top and bottom housings mean that the Coral will emit more pronounced sound when released due to its stiffer top, while the Mars will deliver a richer bottom-out feel stemming from its POM and nylon combination. This functional interplay suggests that while the Jerrzi Coral and the Gateron Mars may participate in the broader mechanical keyboard universe with distinct identities, they exemplify how nuanced sound profiles can be achieved by varying housing materials. Ultimately, by employing diverse combinations of plastics, both switches cater to different auditory preferences, yielding a range of tactile and auditory experiences that enthusiasts can appreciate.
Weight
When comparing the Jerrzi Coral linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch, there are some notable differences in their actuation forces. The Coral switch features an actuation force of 40 grams, while the Mars switch requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Coral switch is lighter, which may appeal to users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, particularly for extended periods in work or gaming scenarios. However, the bottom out forces for both switches are currently unavailable, making it challenging to draw a direct comparison in that aspect. Without this information, we can't assess how the feeling of bottoming out may differ between the two. For those who appreciate a firmer feel when typing, the heavier actuation force of the Mars may be preferable, but for light-touch typists, the Coral offers a more gentle option.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Jerrzi Coral linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch, the Coral measures 3.7 mm, while the Mars has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference, though minimal, indicates that the Coral offers a longer travel distance than the Mars, making it a better choice for those who prefer a more pronounced keypress experience. On the other hand, the Mars, with its shorter travel distance, may appeal more to gamers seeking faster response times and a more immediate actuation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference: if you favor a deeper, more tactile feel, the Coral would be the ideal option, whereas if you prioritize speed and efficiency, the Mars might be the better fit.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Coral has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Coral for $2.30.
The Gateron Mars has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mars 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
When comparing the sound profiles of the Jerrzi Coral linear switch and the Gateron Mars linear switch, the Coral is distinguished by its low-pitched resonance, providing a rich, bass-heavy tone that tends to be warm and mellow. This sound quality contributes to a pleasant auditory experience during typing, which can enhance overall satisfaction. On the other hand, there is no specific information available regarding the sound of the Mars switch, making it difficult to draw a direct comparison. However, it's worth noting that the sonic characteristics of a switch can be influenced by various factors, including the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used, meaning users may achieve similar sound experiences with either switch depending on their setup.
In terms of tactile feel, the Coral switch shines with its silky smoothness, offering an exceptionally refined typing experience that minimizes resistance during keystrokes. This smoothly-gliding action can lead to a more enjoyable and precise typing rhythm. Unfortunately, the Gateron Mars switch lacks descriptive information regarding its feel, so a direct comparison is again challenging. Without this data, it is hard to gauge whether the Mars can match or diverge from the Coral's smooth typing experience.
In conclusion, the Jerrzi Coral linear switch is characterized by its low-pitched sound and silky feel, promoting a sophisticated and enjoyable typing experience. Meanwhile, the Gateron Mars switch's auditory qualities remain unknown, and details about its tactile feel are also not specified. For newcomers deciding between these two options, the Coral offers clear advantages in both sound and feel, but one might still explore the Mars switch to find a potentially satisfactory typing experience, especially if individual preferences vary.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Jerrzi Coral and Gateron Mars linear switches will ultimately depend on your personal preferences and typing style. If you seek a switch that offers a distinctly crisp typing feel paired with a silky smooth experience, the Jerrzi Coral is an excellent choice. Its low-pitched resonance and sophisticated design deliver a premium typing experience that many users find enjoyable, making it ideal for both typing and gaming where precision matters. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that boasts innovative materials with unique design elements, you might find the Gateron Mars more appealing. While the Mars switches might lack specific sound and feel descriptors, their robust build quality, featuring a blend of Nylon and POM, may be more suitable for users looking for durability and a different tactile experience. Ultimately, consider how each switch aligns with your typing habits and the overall sound profile you desire. Making this decision will enhance your keyboard experience, ensuring that each keystroke feels just right for you.
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