Jerrzi Orange vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Orange and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Jerrzi Orange and Cherry MX Red stand out as two popular options in the linear switch category. The Jerrzi Orange switches are known for their lightweight feel and clacky responsiveness, providing a lively typing experience for enthusiasts who enjoy audible feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red switches offer a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, creating a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. While the Orange switches are categorized as 'Feathery', 'Easy-to-press', 'Subdued', 'Clacky', the MX Red switches are categorized as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured'. 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
45g
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Jerrzi Orange and the Cherry MX Red, we see that they both use different materials for their top housing. The Orange utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the MX Red features a nylon top housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature. While the Orange's polycarbonate housing is ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency, the MX Red's nylon housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing, we find that both the Orange and the MX Red utilize nylon for this component. The nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Despite both switches using the same material for their bottom housing, the impact of this housing material on the overall sound and feel of the switch is significant, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key.
In summary, the Jerrzi Orange and Cherry MX Red switches offer different sound profiles due to the materials used in their housing components. While the Orange's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound, the MX Red's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar impact on sound and feel. The choice between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The Jerrzi Orange linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Cherry MX Red linear switch which has an actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Orange switch requires less force to register a keystroke, making it more sensitive and potentially better for rapid typing or gaming. In terms of bottom out force, both switches have an unknown value, so it is unclear which one requires more force to fully press down. However, based on the actuation force alone, it can be inferred that the Jerrzi Orange switch is lighter in general. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Orange switch for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the slightly heavier actuation force of the Cherry MX Red switch for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and sensitivity.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Orange linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Cherry MX Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the MX Red has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Orange. For those who prefer a shorter travel distance for faster response times, the Orange switch would be the better option. Gamers, in particular, tend to favor switches with shorter travel distances. However, for individuals who enjoy a deeper key press, the MX Red switch with its longer travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style, with both options offering their own advantages.
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 Red 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 Red 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
When comparing the sound qualities of the Jerrzi Orange and Cherry MX Red switches, the Orange is known for its clacky and audible feedback, providing a lively typing experience. In contrast, the MX Red offers a deeper and more robust sound profile, giving users a satisfying auditory depth. While the Orange switch produces a sharp and snappy sound, the MX Red switch is characterized by a thocky and low-pitched sound, creating a different auditory experience for the user. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles, catering to different preferences depending on whether one prefers a brighter and percussive sound or a deeper, more bass-heavy tone.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Orange switch is praised for its feathery and easy-to-press nature, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions without causing finger fatigue. Conversely, the MX Red switch is described as textured, indicating that it may have noticeable friction when pressed. This contrast suggests that the Orange switch provides a light and effortless typing experience, while the MX Red switch may offer a slightly more tactile feel due to its textured nature. Ultimately, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience by offering a responsive and comfortable feel, with the Orange switch focusing on light actuation force and the MX Red potentially providing a bit more tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Jerrzi Orange and Cherry MX Red switches offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Orange switch stands out for its clacky sound and feathery feel, the MX Red switch differentiates itself with a deeper sound profile and a potentially textured feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing experience, users can choose between these switches to tailor their mechanical keyboard to their liking. Despite their differences, both switches aim to provide a satisfying and responsive typing experience, ensuring that users can enjoy a customized feel and sound with either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Jerrzi Orange linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, consider the characteristics that best fit your preferences and needs. If you prioritize a lightweight and clacky typing experience with crisp feedback, the Jerrzi Orange switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heftier feel with a deeper sound profile, the Cherry MX Red switch is the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value a feathery and easy-to-press feel or a textured and thocky sound. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles, so make sure to choose the one that aligns with your personal preferences for a satisfying typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
