Jerrzi Honey Bean vs. KTT Laurel
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the KTT Laurel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the KTT Laurel, both linear switches with distinct qualities. The Honey Bean switch is known for its light and linear action, offering a silent typing experience that is ideal for office or shared environments where noise reduction is key. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel switch provides a medium-light linear feel with a full POM housing and a short travel distance, striking a balance between responsiveness and comfort. While the Honey Bean is 'Easy-to-press', 'Feathery', and 'Muted', the Laurel is 'Low-pitched' and 'Snappy'. Both switches have their own strengths and benefits, and the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22m spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the KTT Laurel both feature POM top and bottom housings, which are known to create a pleasing and unique sound profile with deeper tones and a more muted overall sound. This similarity means that users can expect a consistent sound experience from both switches, whether pressing down on a key or releasing it. The POM material used in both switches provides a sturdy housing that contributes to the overall feel and sound profile of the switch.
While both the Honey Bean and the Laurel share the same POM housing material for both the top and bottom, the impact of each housing on the overall sound and feel of the switch may vary. The bottom housing of a switch typically influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound produced when a key is released. This means that while the overall sound profile of the switches may be similar due to the shared POM material, the specific nuances in sound and feel may differ between the two switches.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the KTT Laurel are strikingly similar, with both switches utilizing POM top and bottom housings to create a rich and pleasing sound profile. The consistency in material choice between the two switches means that users can expect a comparable sound experience from both, with subtle differences in sound and feel likely due to the specific design and construction of each switch. Ultimately, both switches offer a high-quality housing material that enhances the overall typing experience for users seeking a deeper sound profile with a more muted tone.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch, a few key differences emerge. The Honey Bean has a slightly lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Laurel's 43 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Laurel is 50 grams, making it heavier than the Honey Bean, whose bottom out force is unknown. This means that while the Honey Bean may provide a lighter typing experience, the Laurel offers a more substantial push feel. Both switches have their strengths; the lighter actuation force of the Honey Bean may be preferred by those who type for extended periods, while the heavier bottom out force of the Laurel could appeal to users seeking a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the KTT Laurel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those seeking quicker response times, such as gamers. The Honey Bean switch is slightly longer than the Laurel switch, offering a slightly deeper press. However, the difference of 0.2 mm may not be significant to most users. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of travel distance, providing a balance between responsiveness and depth that caters to different preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Honey Bean has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey Bean for $3.59.
The KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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 it comes to sound, the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch is known for its muted profile, providing a softer and quieter typing experience ideal for shared spaces. In contrast, the KTT Laurel linear switch offers a low-pitched sound that adds a mellow and bass-heavy tone to your typing sessions. Both switches cater to different preferences in sound output, allowing users to customize their auditory experience based on personal tastes and environmental considerations.
In terms of feel, the Honey Bean linear switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. Described as feathery, the Honey Bean switch offers a light and effortless typing experience that enhances overall comfort. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel linear switch is noted for its snappy responsiveness, providing a lively typing sensation that is well-suited for those who prefer a more tactile feel during keystrokes. Each switch offers a distinct typing feel tailored to different preferences in keypress resistance and feedback.
In conclusion, the Jerrzi Honey Bean and KTT Laurel linear switches each bring unique qualities to the table, catering to different preferences in sound profile and typing feel. While the Honey Bean excels in providing a muted and easy-to-press typing experience, the Laurel offers a low-pitched sound and snappy responsiveness for users seeking a different tactile sensation. Ultimately, both switches can deliver satisfying results depending on the user's personal preferences and typing requirements.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch, consider the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard. If you prioritize a silent typing experience and need to minimize noise levels in a shared space like an office, the Honey Bean switch is the ideal choice with its light and linear action. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more responsive typing experience with a medium-light actuation force and a subtly low-pitched sound profile, the Laurel switch is the way to go. The Honey Bean switch offers an easy-to-press and feathery feel, while the Laurel switch provides a snappy response. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and the specific requirements of your typing environment. Choose wisely based on your priorities and enjoy a satisfying typing experience with either of these high-quality linear switches.
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