Jerrzi Orange vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Orange and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between options that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Jerrzi Orange switch, a clacky linear switch, is celebrated for its lightweight feel and crisp auditory feedback, making every keystroke a lively affair. This switch is an excellent choice for those who enjoy a responsive typing experience and appreciate the excitement of auditory cues in their interactions. On the other hand, the HMX SU switch, featuring a full PA12 housing and a T5 stem, offers a more subdued yet relatively deep sound profile, providing a balanced feel that lends itself well to both typing and gaming. Both switches cater to different tastes—while the Orange excites with its clackiness and ease of actuation, the SU presents a quieter, more refined experience. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T5
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Jerrzi Orange and the HMX SU switches feature contrasting materials for their top housing, which influences their overall sound profiles. The Jerrzi Orange uses polycarbonate for its top housing, resulting in a sound that is sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper. The inherent stiffness of polycarbonate allows for greater resonance and clarity, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate pronounced auditory feedback. In contrast, the HMX SU employs nylon for its top housing, which produces a deeper, fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound waves, resulting in a rounder and more muted auditory experience. This key difference underscores the significant impact that the choice of top housing material has on a switch's sound characteristics, catering to different user preferences regarding auditory feedback.
Both switches, however, share nylon as their bottom housing material. This commonality means that both the Jerrzi Orange and HMX SU will provide a similar auditory experience when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel. The nylon's ability to absorb sound results in a fuller, deeper profile for both switches, allowing for a consistent performance in terms of bottom housing feedback. As a result, whether you are typing on the Jerrzi Orange or the HMX SU, the character of the bottom housing will create a uniformity that enhances the tactile experience, contributing to user satisfaction through a rich auditory engagement.
Ultimately, the combination of different top housing materials in the Jerrzi Orange and the HMX SU creates a distinctive sound profile while still leveraging the shared qualities of their nylon bottom housings. If users are seeking a sharper auditory experience, the Jerrzi Orange may be their preferred choice, especially for those utilizing RGB lighting due to polycarbonate's translucency. Conversely, those who favor a more subdued sound may gravitate towards the HMX SU. However, the common use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that both switches will still deliver a substantial and impactful sound conclusion, bridging the gap between their different top materials.
Weight
When comparing the Jerrzi Orange linear switch to the HMX SU linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Jerrzi Orange switch features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a softer touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the HMX SU switch has a higher actuation force of 45 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience that may appeal to those who enjoy a firmer push. Additionally, while the bottom out force for the Jerrzi Orange is unavailable, the HMX SU has a bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating that it requires more force to press the switch completely down. Therefore, the Jerrzi Orange can be considered the lighter option overall, while the HMX SU, with its higher actuation and confirmed bottom out force, is the heavier switch, providing more resistance. If the bottom out force for the Orange were known, we could assess whether the overall feel of both switches is similar or distinctly different based on their respective weights.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Jerrzi Orange linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, the Jerrzi Orange features a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the HMX SU has a slightly shorter distance of 3.6 mm. The Jerrzi Orange, therefore, offers a little more depth when pressed down, catering to users who appreciate a more substantial key feel. In contrast, the HMX SU's 3.6 mm travel distance presents a more responsive option, which can be appealing for gamers seeking quicker actuation. While both switches are relatively close in distance, the Orange's travel distance is marginally longer, making it potentially more suitable for those who prefer a more pronounced feedback, whereas the shorter distance of the SU might be ideal for users who prioritize speed and rapid key presses.
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 HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
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
The Jerrzi Orange switches produce a lively and vibrant sound profile, characterized by a clacky and crisp auditory feedback. This sharp and snappy sound is invigorating for users who enjoy a more responsive typing experience. Their subdued qualities offer a slightly dampened sound compared to typical clacky switches, allowing for a pleasant aural experience without being overly loud. The distinctive clacky nature ensures that each keystroke is clearly heard, adding an element of satisfaction to every press. In contrast, the HMX SU's sound profile is less defined in the provided information but features a subtle, relatively deep sound owing to its PA12 housing and T5 stem design. The depth of the SU's sound might provide a more muted or softer typing experience, making it appealing for those seeking a quieter option.
When it comes to the feeling of these switches, the Jerrzi Orange excels with its feathery and easy-to-press characteristics. Users will notice that these switches require minimal exertion, significantly reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. The light actuation force makes them exceptionally comfortable, promoting a seamless and responsive typing experience. In contrast, the feel of the HMX SU is not specified, leaving some uncertainty regarding its tactile response and overall typing comfort. Without information on the SU's actuation force or design nuances that often contribute to a switch's feel, it is difficult to draw direct comparisons.
Taking everything into account, the Jerrzi Orange switches offer a lively and responsive sound and feel, making them an attractive option for typists and gamers who appreciate a crisp auditory experience and a lightweight, comfortable touch. The HMX SU's sound profile appears to focus on a deeper and more subtle auditory experience, while its tactile characteristics remain uncertain. Thus, if you prefer a clacky and lightweight feel, choosing the Orange may provide a satisfactory experience, while the SU may appeal to those seeking a quieter typing sound without as much detail on its tactile feedback. Ultimately, both switches cater to specific preferences, ensuring that you can find a suitable option based on your individual typing style and sound preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Jerrzi Orange and the HMX SU linear switches, your preferences for sound, feel, and intended use will be key factors. If you enjoy a light, clacky typing experience with crisp keystrokes and find joy in the auditory feedback while typing or gaming, the Jerrzi Orange switches would be an excellent choice. Their feathery touch and easy-to-press nature make them ideal for prolonged use, whether for intense gaming sessions or lengthy typing tasks. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued sound profile and a slightly heavier actuation force that still feels light overall, the HMX SU switches may suit you better. Their deeper sound and stable feel can contribute to a comfortable typing experience without the pronounced clack of the Orange switches. Ultimately, your decision should align with how you prioritize sound and tactile feedback in your keyboard experience, ensuring you select the switch that best enhances your daily activities.
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