Jerrzi Orange vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Orange and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Jerrzi Orange and Gateron Silent Ink Black mechanical keyboard switches, both linear options offer unique advantages depending on your preferences. The Jerrzi Orange stands out for its clacky and lightweight feel, providing a crisp and audible feedback with each keystroke. This makes it a lively choice for enthusiasts who appreciate a responsive and vibrant typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch offers a silenced typing experience with a cushiony bottom-out feel and minimal audio feedback, making it ideal for quieter environments. 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
70g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Jerrzi Orange and the Gateron Silent Ink Black, we see a difference in their top housings. The Orange utilizes polycarbonate, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black uses Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing, known for its pointed and high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. While both offer unique sound profiles, the Orange's polycarbonate top housing may be more suitable for those looking for a sharper sound, while the Silent Ink Black's INK blend top housing offers a slightly smoother yet still distinctive sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Orange features a nylon bottom housing which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend bottom housing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black's INK blend bottom housing still provides a pointed and high-pitched sound that is described as clacky, maintaining a consistent sound profile throughout the switch. While both housing materials impact the sound profile of the switches, the choice between nylon and INK blend will depend on the individual's preference for a deeper, fuller sound or a sharper, clackier sound.
In terms of overall typing experience, the housing materials of both switches play a crucial role. The division of qualities between the top and bottom housings means that each contributes differently to the sound and feel of the switch. When typing on the Orange, the nylon bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, providing a deeper and more rounded typing experience. Conversely, the polycarbonate top housing will affect the sound when releasing a key, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile. Similarly, the Silent Ink Black's INK blend top and bottom housings work together to produce a consistent, high-pitched, and clacky typing experience, with both contributing to the overall sound and feel of the switch.
Weight
When comparing the Jerrzi Orange linear switch to the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, it is evident that there is a significant difference in actuation force and bottom out force. The Orange switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Silent Ink Black's heavier actuation force of 60 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Orange switch is unknown, while the Silent Ink Black has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is classified as medium-heavy. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience might lean towards the Jerrzi Orange switch, as it requires less force to actuate. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch due to its heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing comfort and efficiency.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Jerrzi Orange linear switch is 3.7 mm, while the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm. In this case, the Silent Ink Black has a longer travel distance compared to the Orange. A difference of 0.3 mm may not seem significant, but it can impact the typing or gaming experience for some users. Those who prefer a shorter travel distance may opt for the Orange switch for quicker response times, especially popular among gamers. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial keypress may prefer the Silent Ink Black with its slightly longer travel distance. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, so the overall experience in terms of keypress may be similar, but the travel distance can be a determining factor for some users.
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 Gateron Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
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 switch is known for its clacky and lively feedback, producing a sharp and percussive sound with each key press. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch offers a muted typing experience, significantly reducing noise levels to provide a quieter environment for typing. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound, with the Orange being more energetic and audible, while the Silent Ink Black offers a softer and subtler typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the Jerrzi Orange switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to actuate and providing a light and comfortable typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch offers a silky and polished feel, delivering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with reduced friction and enhanced key travel. While the Orange focuses on lightness and ease of pressing, the Silent Ink Black prioritizes smoothness and refinement in typing feel.
In conclusion, the Jerrzi Orange linear switch is a great choice for those seeking a lively and responsive typing experience with a clacky sound profile and a feather-light feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch is ideal for users looking for a quieter typing environment with a muted sound profile and a silky smooth typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering between the Jerrzi Orange linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, your decision should be based on your preferences for typing experience and noise level. If you enjoy a lively and clacky typing experience with minimal bottom-out force, the Jerrzi Orange switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a cushiony, silent typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom-out force, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by whether you prioritize a vibrant and responsive typing feel (Jerrzi Orange) or a subdued and quiet typing experience (Gateron Silent Ink Black). Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences and environment needs.