Jerrzi Orange vs. Cherry MX Orange
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Orange and the Cherry MX Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Jerrzi Orange and the Cherry MX Orange switches, both linear switches cater to the needs of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts but they present distinct characteristics that can influence your typing experience. The Jerrzi Orange switches are known for their clacky sound profile and lightweight feel, delivering a responsive and vibrant typing experience that many users find enjoyable. Their feathery touch and easy-to-press design make them an excellent choice for those who appreciate audible feedback as they type. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange switches, which have been enhanced with the MX2A generation improvements, aim to honor the legacy of the original MX Orange switches while meeting modern demands. Although specific categorization for these switches wasn't provided, they are typically recognized for their durability and solid performance, making them a reliable option for both typing and gaming. With these considerations in mind, it's clear that both switches offer unique benefits, but the right choice ultimately depends on individual preferences and typing styles. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Yes
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Jerrzi Orange and the Cherry MX Orange switches, we find significant differences that contribute to the overall sound profile and tactile experience of each switch. The Jerrzi Orange features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory feedback due to its stiffer nature. This design is particularly effective for those looking to enhance RGB lighting effects, as polycarbonate’s translucency allows for a more vibrant display. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange uses a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound better, resulting in a duller and rounder tonal quality—a characteristic that enhances the overall typing experience but may lack the sharpness present in polycarbonate houses.
Interestingly, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which creates a uniform aspect in their sound profiles. The nylon’s cushioning properties contribute to a muted and softer bottom-out feel when typing, providing a comfortable experience that is appreciated by many users. This similarity suggests that while the top housing materials diverge in their auditory outputs, the nylon bottom housing allows for a similar tactile response in both switches. As a result, pressing down on either switch will yield a profound, fuller sound, setting a consistent baseline for the actuation and bottom-out experience, as both switches benefit from nylon's sound-absorbing qualities.
Overall, while the Jerrzi Orange and Cherry MX Orange switches share a commonality in their nylon bottom housing, the contrast in their top housing materials significantly affects their sound profiles and user experience. With the Jerrzi Orange’s polycarbonate top resulting in crisper, sharper notes, and the Cherry MX Orange’s nylon top offering a rounder, fuller sound, each switch serves different preferences. Choosing between them ultimately comes down to the desired auditory experience and the aesthetic appeal related to RGB lighting functionalities, cementing how materials not only dictate sound quality but also the emotional connection users form with their keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the Jerrzi Orange linear switch to the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, there is a notable difference in actuation force, with the Jerrzi Orange requiring only 37 grams to register a keystroke, while the Cherry MX Orange demands a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. This means the Jerrzi Orange switch is lighter, making it potentially more suitable for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, such as those working long hours or engaging in extended gaming sessions. Both switches have an unspecified bottom-out force, so we cannot compare this particular aspect. However, if the bottom-out forces were available and matched, users could expect a similar experience when pressing the switches down fully. For those who favor a stronger tactile feedback and a more substantial push while typing, the Cherry MX Orange's heavier actuation force may be the more appealing choice.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Orange linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Cherry MX Orange linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This indicates that the Jerrzi Orange provides a shorter travel distance, which may be preferable for gamers seeking quicker response times. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange offers a more traditional depth, which could appeal to users who appreciate a more substantial feel when pressing the keys. If you're looking for a switch that prioritizes responsiveness, the Jerrzi Orange would be the ideal choice, while those who favor a deeper and more pronounced keystroke should consider the Cherry MX Orange. Overall, the difference in travel distance highlights the distinct preferences users may have regarding key feedback and activations.
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 Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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 Orange linear switches are characterized by a clacky quality, which produces a sharp and snappy sound with each keystroke. This crisp, bright, and percussive feedback adds a lively atmosphere to typing, making it particularly appealing for users who enjoy audible confirmation of their key presses. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange switches do not have a sound profile provided, so it is difficult to draw a direct comparison regarding their auditory characteristics. However, it’s worth noting that the overall sound produced by any switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard’s construction and the choice of keycaps, potentially leading to a varied auditory experience even with similar switches.
In terms of feel, the Jerrzi Orange switches excel with their notably lightweight and feathery action. They require minimal exertion from the fingers, making them easy to press and reducing finger fatigue during prolonged use, whether for gaming or typing. This gentle resistance enhances comfort and responsiveness, resulting in a low-impact typing experience. The actuation force being light ensures that users can type with ease for extended periods. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available about the feel of the Cherry MX Orange switches, making it challenging to provide a comparative analysis.
In summary, the Jerrzi Orange linear switches offer a clacky sound and a lightweight, feathery feel ideal for those seeking an engaging typing experience. While sound and feel characteristics for the Cherry MX Orange switches remain somewhat ambiguous, it is evident that users looking for a dynamic and comfortable typing experience will appreciate the qualities offered by the Jerrzi Orange. Should the two switches share a similar profile, users might ultimately get comparable results in their typing or gaming experience, contingent upon individual preferences and external factors like keyboard build and keycap selection.
Conclusion
To conclude, when it comes to choosing between the Jerrzi Orange linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange switch, your decision should ultimately be based on your priorities for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. If you seek a more vivacious and lively feel, the Jerrzi Orange switches are an excellent choice. Their clacky sound makes every keystroke feel more pronounced, adding an element of fun to your typing or gaming activities. The feathery and easy-to-press nature of the Jerrzi Orange reduces finger fatigue, which is especially beneficial during extended use. On the other hand, if you prefer a balance between subtlety and performance, the Cherry MX Orange switches might cater more to your needs, especially with their enhancements from the MX2A series. While specific details on their sound profile are less emphasized, these switches are generally regarded for their consistency and reliability. Ultimately, whether you go for the Jerrzi's crisp feedback or the refined performance of Cherry's offering, consider what aspects of the switch matter most to you: vibrant sound and feel versus consistent and dependable typing.