Jerrzi Honey Bean vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the Cherry MX Speed Silver both offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. The Honey Bean switch stands out for its light and linear action, along with its silent operation, making it ideal for office environments where noise reduction is a priority. On the other hand, the MX Speed Silver excels in providing a rapid response with its low spring resistance and linear action, making it a popular choice among gamers seeking quick and precise keystrokes. 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
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
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the Cherry MX Speed Silver, we find that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Honey Bean features a POM top housing, known for creating a pleasing and unique sound with a deeper and relatively muted profile. On the other hand, the MX Speed Silver incorporates a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Honey Bean and the MX Speed Silver share similarities in their use of POM and nylon materials respectively. POM bottom housing in the Honey Bean contributes to a deep and muted sound profile, similar to its top housing characteristics. The nylon bottom housing of the MX Speed Silver also facilitates a deeper and fuller sound, aligning with the overall sound profile created by its top housing material.
While both switches have distinct differences in their housing materials, the impact of these materials on the overall typing experience can be felt in various ways. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, with each material contributing to the switch's unique sound profile. On the other hand, the top housing material influences the sound produced when a key is released, adding another layer of complexity to the tactile experience of each switch. Ultimately, the choice between the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the Cherry MX Speed Silver will depend on personal preference regarding sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch has a higher actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Cherry MX Speed Silver's 30 grams, making the MX Speed Silver the lighter option for those who prefer a lighter touch. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force, so it is unclear which switch would provide a more substantial typing experience in terms of bottoming out. Those who enjoy a stronger push feel may prefer the Jerrzi Honey Bean switch due to its higher actuation force, while those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Cherry MX Speed Silver. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are preferred by gamers for faster response times. The Honey Bean switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a bit more depth to the keystrokes, which some users may find more comfortable. However, the MX Speed Silver switch's shorter travel distance may appeal to those seeking a more immediate and responsive feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key feel.
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 Cherry MX Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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
In terms of sound, the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch offers a muted experience, producing a softer and quieter sound that is ideal for shared environments where noise reduction is crucial. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch provides a thocky and low-pitched sound, giving a deep, rich, and satisfying tone when pressed. Depending on personal preference, the Honey Bean will offer a more understated typing experience, while the MX Speed Silver will provide a more pronounced auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch is easy-to-press and feathery, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. This light actuation force enhances the overall typing experience by offering a responsive and low-impact feel. On the contrary, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch is noted for its textured feel, which may provide a noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may prefer this tactile feedback, while others may prefer a smoother typing experience.
Considering all available information, the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Honey Bean excels in providing a quiet and easy-to-press typing experience, making it suitable for office settings, while the MX Speed Silver stands out for its rapid response and textured feel, catering to gamers seeking quick key actuation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and intended use case. However, users can expect similar results in terms of linear action and silent operation from both switches, ensuring a satisfactory typing experience regardless of the chosen switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, consider the environment and purpose for which you will be using the keyboard. If you prioritize a quiet and discreet typing experience, especially for office or shared spaces, the Honey Bean switch would be a great choice with its light and linear action. On the other hand, if you are a gamer seeking maximum speed and instant response, the MX Speed Silver switch with its low spring resistance and rapid triggering would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for noise level, typing feel, and the specific requirements of your typing or gaming setup.
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