Jerrzi Orange vs. Kailh Plum

Overview

When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Jerrzi Orange and Kailh Plum offer distinct options for users seeking different typing experiences. The Jerrzi Orange is a linear switch known for its lightweight feel and crisp, clacky feedback with each keystroke, appealing to enthusiasts who value responsiveness and liveliness in their typing. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum is a tactile switch that feels hefty but features a unique lack of a pronounced tactile bump, resulting in a neutral and enjoyable sound profile. While the Orange offers a feathery and easy-to-press typing experience, the Plum provides a mild tactility and stepped feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Jerrzi Orange Linear

Kailh Plum Tactile

$2.79

$2.30 per 10

$6.25 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

Both the Jerrzi Orange and the Kailh Plum employ polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances resonance and clarity in the sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through for a visually appealing effect. While both switches share this material for their top housing, the differences may lie in their design and aesthetic details, which could impact the overall typing experience and appearance of the keyboard.

In terms of the bottom housing, both the Orange and the Plum utilize nylon, a material known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This can affect the typing experience by contributing to the overall acoustics and feel of the switch. While both switches feature nylon for their bottom housing, the specific design of each housing may lead to subtle variations in sound and tactile feedback, catering to different preferences and typing styles.

The division of different housing materials between the top and bottom of the switch allows for a nuanced typing experience. The qualities of the bottom and top housings will influence different aspects of the key press, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a more significant effect on the sound when releasing a key. This design consideration allows for a balanced typing experience that combines the unique properties of both materials for an enhanced overall performance. Whether using the Jerrzi Orange or the Kailh Plum, users can expect a harmonious blend of polycarbonate and nylon in their housing materials to deliver a satisfying typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the Jerrzi Orange linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, it is evident that the actuation force differs between the two. The Orange switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, making it more sensitive and easier to trigger keystrokes. In contrast, the Plum switch does not disclose its actuation force, implying that it may be heavier than the Orange switch. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Plum switch is 70 grams, indicating a medium-heavy resistance when fully pressed down. The Orange switch does not provide information on bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Orange switch, while individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the Plum switch for its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.

Travel distance

The Jerrzi Orange linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Kailh Plum tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prioritize quick response times, such as gamers. The difference of 0.1 mm between the two may not be significant to most users in terms of feel or performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of tactile feedback rather than the slight variation in travel distance. It is worth noting that both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to the more traditional 4.0mm standard.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Jerrzi Orange linear switch is known for its clacky and lively sound profile, offering a crisp and percussive feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch is described as having a neutral and enjoyable sound, making it a versatile option suitable for various environments. Both switches provide different auditory experiences, with the Orange being more pronounced and the Plum offering a more subdued and balanced sound.

In terms of feel, the Jerrzi Orange switch is characterized by its feathery and easy-to-press nature, providing a light and responsive typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during prolonged use. Conversely, the Kailh Plum switch is described as mild and stepped, offering a gentle typing experience with a unique tactile sensation that features two stages of feedback. This creates a distinct typing feel that may appeal to those looking for a different tactile experience compared to traditional switches.

Overall, the Jerrzi Orange linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch offer contrasting qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Orange provides a vibrant and responsive typing experience with a clacky sound profile, while the Plum offers a balanced and versatile sound with a unique tactile sensation. Both switches cater to different preferences, so choosing between them would depend on whether you prioritize a lively typing experience with pronounced feedback or a more neutral and balanced typing feel. Ultimately, experimenting with both switches on different keyboards and keycaps would help determine which one best suits your typing style and preferences.

Conclusion

In closing, when choosing between the Jerrzi Orange linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a lightweight and clacky typing feel with a subtle sound profile, the Jerrzi Orange switch is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more medium-heavy and unique tactile experience with a neutral sound profile, the Kailh Plum switch may be the better option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound, so choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences and typing style.

Mentioned in this article

Jerrzi Orange Linear

$2.79

$2.30 per 10

Learn more

Kailh Plum Tactile

$6.25 per 10

Learn more