HMX Deep Navy vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the HMX Deep Navy and the Jerrzi Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the HMX Deep Navy and the Jerrzi Violet often boils down to personal preference and typing style. The Deep Navy switch, known for its rich sound profile and silky smooth actuation, offers a satisfying linear experience that many gamers and typists appreciate for its responsiveness and quiet performance. Constructed from full nylon, it provides durability and stability, making it a great option for those who prefer a seamless typing experience without tactile interruptions. In contrast, the Jerrzi Violet switch caters to those who enjoy a tactile feel with its gentle bump and neutral sound signature. Its pleasing actuation feedback adds an enjoyable element to each keystroke, appealing particularly to typists who appreciate a more engaging and interactive experience. Understanding these characteristics can help you determine which switch may better suit your needs; 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Deep Navy and the Jerrzi Violet, the most notable differences are found in the top housing. The Deep Navy utilizes nylon as its top housing material, which allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Being a softer plastic, nylon absorbs sound effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Violet employs polycarbonate for its top housing, which is characterized by its stiffer nature. This leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing, making it particularly appealing for users who prefer a more vibrant auditory feedback. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the aesthetic appeal of the switch, especially when RGB lighting is involved, allowing for a visually striking effect.
On the other hand, both the HMX Deep Navy and the Jerrzi Violet utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which leads to a significant similarity in performance characteristics in that area. Since nylon is conducive to creating a deeper and fuller sound envelope, pressing down on both switches will elicit similar tactile sensations and auditory feedback. The nylon bottom housing effectively absorbs sound, leading to a more subdued bottom-out experience, regardless of the differing materials in the top housings. This creates a harmonious balance, as the bottom housings contribute a similar sound profile across both switches while allowing the unique characteristics of the top housing materials to manifest distinctly when releasing the keys.
Ultimately, the combination of differing top housing materials with uniform bottom housings means that the HMX Deep Navy and Jerrzi Violet switches will offer a blended performance influenced by their individual housing qualities. Users can expect that the nylon bottoms will provide a consistent auditory foundation and tactile feedback, while the contrasting top materials will yield distinct sound profiles that enhance the typing experience differently. Those looking for a more muffled and rounded auditory experience may prefer the Deep Navy, while those who desire a sharper and more resonant sound may gravitate toward the Violet. Overall, this diversity presents an opportunity for users to choose a switch that aligns best with their preferences without sacrificing the overall tactile experience offered by the nylon bottom housing.
Weight
The HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch present contrasting characteristics in terms of actuation force. The Deep Navy has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, making it easier to activate, which is ideal for users who prioritize long typing sessions or lightweight gaming experiences. In contrast, the Jerrzi Violet switch has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, catering to those who prefer a more substantial, tactile feedback while typing. This difference makes the Violet more suited for users who enjoy a stronger push feel. Additionally, while the Deep Navy has a bottom out force of 45 grams, the bottom out force for the Violet switch remains unknown. Overall, if a similar bottom out force were to be established for the Jerrzi Violet, users might find common ground in terms of typing experience; however, the lighter 40 grams of the Deep Navy clearly differentiates it as the better option for prolonged use without fatigue.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, we find that they differ slightly, with the Deep Navy having a travel distance of 3.6 mm and the Violet at 3.7 mm. This makes the Deep Navy the shorter option, offering a more responsive feel that some gamers might prefer for quicker keystrokes. In contrast, the Jerrzi Violet, with its 3.7 mm travel distance, provides a more traditional depth that could appeal to users who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback when typing. While both switches cater to different preferences, the shorter travel distance of the Deep Navy may be more suitable for those seeking speed, while the longer travel distance of the Violet can deliver a more substantial typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Deep Navy has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Deep Navy for $2.79.
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
The sound profile of the HMX Deep Navy linear switch is noted for its rich and sharp qualities, offering a pleasing auditory experience during typing. In contrast, the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch features a neutral sound signature, characterized by a moderate actuation force and sound profile that makes it versatile for various environments, be it at home or work. While the Deep Navy switch may provide a distinct auditory presence, the Violet's balanced sound allows for a less pronounced typing noise, making it suitable for users who prefer a quieter experience.
When it comes to feel, the Deep Navy switch boasts silky smooth actuation, ensuring an effortlessly fluid keystroke. Meanwhile, the Violet switch offers a gentle tactile experience, defined by its stepped nature; this means it provides a noticeable but milder tactile feedback compared to more hypertactile options. The Violet’s tactile bump is placed in a way that allows for a feeling of pre-travel and post-travel, which can enhance the typing experience for those who appreciate some feedback without overwhelming tactility.
In summary, the HMX Deep Navy linear switch excels in delivering a rich auditory experience with a smooth keystroke feel, making it ideal for users who enjoy a pronounced sound with their typing. The Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, on the other hand, provides a more neutral sound and a gentle tactile feedback, suitable for a balanced and enjoyable experience. Both switches cater to different preferences, allowing users to choose based on their individual needs for sound and tactile response.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, your choice should align with your preferences for sound, feel, and the typing experience you desire. If you are someone who values a quieter environment and craves a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke, the HMX Deep Navy switch, with its light bottom-out force of 45 grams and rich, sharp sound profile, is an excellent option for you. This switch excels in gaming or situations where rapid keystrokes are essential without any tactile interruptions. Conversely, if you prefer a more tactile experience with clear feedback during typing, the Jerrzi Violet switch is your go-to. With its gentle tactility and neutral sound signature, you can enjoy a balanced typing experience that's suitable for both casual use and professional settings. Ultimately, consider how each switch aligns with your typing habits and the environments in which you'll be using your keyboard to make the most informed decision.