TTC Iron vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the TTC Iron and the Jerrzi Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The TTC Iron and the Jerrzi Violet are two mechanical keyboard switches that cater to different typing preferences. The Iron, a linear switch, is renowned for its clacky sound signature and swift, fatigue-free typing experience. On the other hand, the Violet, a tactile switch, boasts a smooth actuation and gentle tactile feedback, providing a balanced and enjoyable typing experience. While the Iron appeals to those seeking precision and satisfaction in each keystroke, the Violet offers a more subtle and neutral 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
41g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Iron and the Jerrzi Violet both offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials. The Iron features a POM top housing, creating a deeper and more muted sound, while the Violet's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. On the other hand, the Iron's POM bottom housing maintains a similar sound profile to the top housing, while the Violet's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound. The use of different materials in the top and bottom housings of these switches allows for a split in sound qualities, depending on whether you are pressing down on a key or letting go.
Both the Iron and Violet switches showcase the impact housing materials can have on sound profiles. While the POM top housing of the Iron and the polycarbonate top housing of the Violet offer distinct characteristics, such as deeper versus sharper sounds, they both contribute to creating a pleasing and unique experience for users. Additionally, the different bottom housing materials of the Iron and Violet, POM and nylon respectively, showcase how softer plastics like nylon can absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile compared to the more resonant POM material.
In terms of aesthetics, the Violet's polycarbonate top housing stands out for its translucency and ability to enhance RGB lighting effects, while the Iron's POM top housing maintains a more classic look. Despite their differences, both switches offer a variety of sound profiles and tactile experiences based on their housing materials. Whether you prefer a deeper, more muted sound or a sharper, crisper sound, both the TTC Iron and Jerrzi Violet switches deliver unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The TTC Iron linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams compared to the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch's 45 grams. This means that the Iron switch will require less force to register a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Iron switch also requires less force at 50 grams compared to the Violet switch, where the force required is unknown. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Iron switch make it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing them to type for longer durations without fatigue. On the other hand, the heavier actuation and potentially bottom out force of the Violet switch would provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In conclusion, the Iron switch is lighter in terms of actuation and bottom out force compared to the Violet switch, making it a better choice for users looking for a lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the TTC Iron linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, we can see that the Iron has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the Violet's 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prefer a quicker response time. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the shorter travel distance for faster gameplay. However, for those who prefer a more substantial key press and a more deliberate feel, the extra 0.1 mm of travel distance in the Iron switch may provide a slightly more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Iron linear switch offers a clacky sound, providing a sharp and snappy sensation with each press. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch presents a neutral sound profile, ensuring a balanced and pleasant typing experience. While the Iron switch delivers a more pronounced and distinctive sound, the Violet switch offers a more subdued and gentle auditory feedback, catering to different preferences in sound quality.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the TTC Iron linear switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate while offering a light actuation force. This results in swift and effortless typing sessions with reduced finger fatigue. In contrast, the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch has a stepped feel, providing a two-stage tactile sensation that is more mild and gentle compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Both switches offer a different typing experience in terms of tactile feedback, with the Iron switch emphasizing easy and comfortable typing, while the Violet switch focuses on a more subtle and approachable tactile feel.
Overall, the TTC Iron linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch present distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Iron switch offers a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, making it suitable for those seeking a more pronounced auditory and tactile experience. On the other hand, the Violet switch provides a neutral sound and a stepped tactile feel, appealing to users looking for a more balanced and gentle typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique benefits that cater to a variety of typing styles.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Iron linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you value a light actuation force and a clacky sound profile that enhances your typing experience with swift and precise keystrokes, the Iron switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a gentle tactile feel with a smooth actuation and a balanced typing experience, the Violet switch may be the better option for you. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preference for key feel and sound.
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