Jerrzi Orange vs. Cherry MX Black
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Orange and the Cherry MX Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Jerrzi Orange and Cherry MX Black both offer unique qualities worth considering. The Jerrzi Orange switches are known for their clacky linear feel, providing a lightweight and responsive typing experience with crisp audible feedback. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black switches, featuring Cherry's Hyperglide tooling, offer a textured smoothness and deep sound profile. While the Orange switches are described as feathery and easy-to-press, the MX Black switches are categorized as low-pitched and stiff. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences. 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
37g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Jerrzi Orange and Cherry MX Black switches both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Orange's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp, high-pitched sound, while the MX Black's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. This contrast in sound profiles can lead to different typing experiences for users. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting effects, which may be appealing to some users who prioritize visual aesthetics.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Orange and MX Black switches use nylon, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. This similarity in housing material may lead to a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel for both switches. However, the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel may differ slightly between the two switches, depending on how the qualities of the housing material are distributed within the switch.
Overall, the choice between the Jerrzi Orange and Cherry MX Black switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience. The polycarbonate top housing of the Orange offers a crisp and resonant sound, while the nylon top housing of the MX Black provides a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches use nylon for the bottom housing, which results in a similar sound profile in terms of dullness and roundness. Ultimately, users may be drawn to one switch over the other based on their preferences for sound, feel, and visual aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jerrzi Orange linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, it is evident that the Orange switch requires a lighter touch for actuation at 37 grams compared to the MX Black's 60 grams. This difference means that the Orange switch may provide a smoother and quicker typing experience for those who prefer a lighter actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the MX Black is heavier at 80 grams compared to the Orange switch, where this information is unavailable. This heavier bottom out force on the MX Black may cater to users who appreciate a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with some opting for a lighter actuation force for extended typing sessions and others favoring a heavier bottom out force for a more satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Orange linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Cherry MX Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Cherry MX Black has the longer travel distance compared to the Jerrzi Orange. A shorter travel distance is often preferred by gamers for faster response times, making the Jerrzi Orange a popular choice in gaming keyboards. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black offers a slightly deeper key press, which may be preferred by users who enjoy a more tactile feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences in terms of key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Orange has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $2.30.
The Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 per 10 switches.
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 Orange switch is known for its clacky nature, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This results in a crisp and percussive feedback with each keystroke, providing a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black switch offers a low-pitched sound profile, giving off a bass-heavy and mellow tone when typing. Both switches offer distinct sound characteristics, with the Orange being more vibrant and audible while the MX Black provides a deeper and smoother typing sound.
When it comes to feel, the Jerrzi Orange switch is praised for its feathery and easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal effort to activate the keys. This light actuation force reduces finger fatigue and enhances the overall typing experience, making it suitable for extended typing sessions. On the contrary, the Cherry MX Black switch is noted for its textured and stiff feel. The textured nature of the switch provides a unique tactile feedback when pressed, which can be preferred by some users. However, the stiffness of the switch requires a higher amount of force to actuate, potentially causing more strain during prolonged typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Jerrzi Orange linear switch stands out for its clacky sound and feathery feel, providing a lively and comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black linear switch offers a low-pitched sound profile and a textured, stiff feel, catering to users who prefer a deeper typing sound and a unique tactile feedback. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience. Ultimately, users can expect to achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel with these switches, albeit with noticeable differences in their characteristics.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Jerrzi Orange and the Cherry MX Black linear switches, you'll want to choose the Jerrzi Orange if you prefer a lightweight and clacky typing experience with a subdued sound profile. These switches are ideal for those who enjoy a responsive and vibrant feel while typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier switch with a low-pitched sound and a textured feel, the Cherry MX Black switches may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you value a lighter, more dynamic typing experience or a heavier, more solid feel while typing.
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