Jerrzi Honey Bean vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both offer unique features catered to different preferences. The Honey Bean switches are praised for their light and linear action, along with their silent operation, making them ideal for office or shared environments where noise reduction is essential. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switches stand out for their innovative semi-silent design, offering a whisper-quiet topping-out sound paired with a clacky bottom-out sound. While the Honey Bean switch is categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Feathery', and 'Muted', the Semi-Silent Linear switch falls under categories like 'Subdued', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Snappy', 'Buttery', and 'Polished'. Both switches have their own advantages, appealing to different preferences based on typing experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, it is clear that they both offer unique sound profiles based on the type of plastic used. The Honey Bean features a POM top housing, known for creating a deeper and more muted sound, while the Semi-Silent Linear uses a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile. This difference in sound can greatly impact the typing experience for users looking for a specific sound profile in their switches.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Honey Bean utilizes a POM bottom housing, which also contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Semi-Silent Linear utilizes a nylon bottom housing, creating a fuller and rounder sound when typing. The choice of bottom housing material can significantly influence the overall sound and feel of the typing experience, providing users with options to tailor their switches to their preferences.
While the housing materials of the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear provide distinct sound profiles, it is important to note that the combination of top and bottom housing materials can have a significant impact on the overall typing experience. The split in qualities between the top and bottom housings can affect both the bottom-out sound and feel, as well as the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, the choice between POM and polycarbonate or nylon for top and bottom housings will depend on the user's preference for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, we can see some notable differences. The Honey Bean has an actuation force of 42 grams, while the actuation force of the Semi-Silent Linear is unknown. In terms of bottom out force, the Honey Bean has no specific measurement available, while the Semi-Silent Linear has a bottom out force of 62 grams, indicating a slightly heavier feel. The difference in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches can impact the typing experience. The Honey Bean may provide a lighter typing feel with its lower actuation force, while the Semi-Silent Linear offers a more substantial typing experience with its higher bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
Both the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that pressing down on a key with either switch will result in a similar feeling in terms of travel distance. Therefore, users can expect consistent results and performance from both switches in terms of the distance the key travels when pressed. The travel distance of both switches being equal allows for a consistent typing experience across different keyboards using either switch.
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 typing experience, providing a softer and quieter sound ideal for shared environments. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch produces a subdued sound with a whisper-quiet topping-out noise and a clacky bottom-out sound. While both switches aim to minimize noise, the Honey Bean may offer a slightly quieter typing experience overall. However, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Honey Bean switch is known for its easy-to-press and feathery typing experience. These qualities make typing effortless, comfortable, and reduce finger fatigue during extended use. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch provides a mild and snappy typing experience, offering gentle resistance and a responsive feel. Additionally, the Semi-Silent Linear switch is described as buttery and polished, adding a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation.
Considering all available information, both the Honey Bean and Semi-Silent Linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Honey Bean excels in providing a quieter sound profile and a light typing experience, the Semi-Silent Linear switch stands out with its innovative semi-silent design and snappy feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the two switches to enhance their typing experience. Ultimately, whether opting for the Honey Bean or Semi-Silent Linear switch, users can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch or the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, you should think about your environment and personal preferences. If you need a switch for a shared space where noise is a concern, the Honey Bean is the way to go with its silent operation. On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch with a unique semi-silent sound profile and a smooth typing feel, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear would be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to whether you prioritize noise reduction or a distinct typing experience.