Jerrzi Lotus V2 vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Lotus V2 and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the Jerrzi Lotus V2 and the Cherry MX Red both fall into the category of linear switches. The Lotus V2 is best known for its smooth and consistent keystrokes, making it a popular choice for gamers and typists alike. On the other hand, the MX Red is a classic Cherry switch known for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, offering a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. While the Lotus V2 offers a more straightforward typing experience, the MX Red provides a more textured and thocky feel. 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
45g
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
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Lotus V2 and Cherry MX Red both utilize different housing materials for their switches. The Lotus V2 features a POM top housing, while the Cherry MX Red has a nylon top housing. Both materials are known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, but the POM housing of the Lotus V2 is described as more muted compared to the nylon housing of the Cherry MX Red. Additionally, POM is known for creating a unique sound that is pleasing to the ears, while nylon is a classic switch housing material that absorbs more sound due to its softer nature.
In terms of bottom housing, the Lotus V2 and Cherry MX Red also differ in their materials. The Lotus V2 utilizes a POM bottom housing, while the Cherry MX Red uses a nylon bottom housing. Just like their top housing counterparts, both materials contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The POM bottom housing of the Lotus V2 is described as creating a pleasing and unique sound that is relatively more muted compared to the nylon bottom housing of the Cherry MX Red. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Lotus V2 and Cherry MX Red share similarities in creating a deep and full sound profile, they differ in the specific qualities they bring to the switches. The POM housing of the Lotus V2 is known for its unique and pleasing sound that is relatively more muted, while the nylon housing of the Cherry MX Red is a classic switch housing material that absorbs more sound due to its softer nature. Whether it's the top or bottom housing, each material impacts the sound and feel of the switch in its own distinctive way.
Weight
The Jerrzi Lotus V2 linear switch and Cherry MX Red linear switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of force required to trigger a keystroke. However, the bottom out force for both switches is unknown. When comparing the two switches based on weight, it is evident that they offer a similar typing experience in terms of actuation force. For those who prefer a lighter touch, either of these switches would be suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, for users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, they may want to consider options with heavier bottom out forces. Ultimately, both the Lotus V2 and MX Red switches provide a lightweight actuation force, giving users a similar typing experience in terms of force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Lotus V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Cherry MX Red linear switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. With the Lotus V2 offering a quicker response time, it is preferred by gamers who value speed in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red switch's longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key feel. While the Lotus V2 is shorter and the MX Red is longer, both switches provide a comfortable typing experience based on personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Lotus V2 has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus V2 for $3.59.
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 it comes to sound, the Lotus V2 is a bit unknown in terms of its specific sound profile, while the MX Red is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound. The Lotus V2 may offer a different acoustic experience compared to the MX Red, so if you enjoy a deeper and richer sound with a thud or knock when typing, the MX Red may be more to your liking.
In regard to feel, the Lotus V2's specific tactile qualities are not outlined, while the MX Red is known for its textured feel, providing a unique friction when pressed. If you prefer a switch that offers a noticeable tactile response and friction during typing, the MX Red might be the better choice for you.
Considering all available information, the Lotus V2 and MX Red linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Lotus V2 may provide a unique typing experience that differs from the classic Cherry MX Red's thocky sound and textured feel, both switches can offer a satisfying typing experience with their own nuances. Overall, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and potentially other factors such as typing speed and typing style. Experimenting with both switches on different keyboards and keycap sets may ultimately help in determining which one suits your preferences best.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Jerrzi Lotus V2 linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, you should consider the type of typing experience you are looking for. If you prefer a switch with a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, the Cherry MX Red may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a unique bottom out force and a different typing experience, the Jerrzi Lotus V2 might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your choice will come down to personal preference and the specific characteristics that matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
