Cherry MX Orange vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Orange and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the Cherry MX Orange and the Jwick Taro, each offering a different typing experience suited to varying user preferences. The Cherry MX Orange switches are celebrated for their smooth linear action, providing a consistent and uninterrupted key press that is ideal for gamers who prioritize speed and precision. In contrast, the Jwick Taro switches deliver a tactile bump along with a satisfying acoustic response, creating a typing experience that's both engaging and enjoyable, appealing to those who appreciate feedback with each keystroke. While the MX Orange is aimed at users looking for a streamlined and quick response, the Taro's buttery, stepped feel and crisp sound cater to typists seeking a more tactile and immersive interaction with their keyboard. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your personal needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Orange and the Jwick Taro, significant differences emerge in their top housings. The Cherry MX Orange features a nylon top housing, which is known for its softer characteristics that contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This softness allows the nylon to absorb more sound, creating a rounder auditory experience that can feel more muted. In contrast, the Jwick Taro uses a polycarbonate top housing, which is considerably stiffer and produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This difference in material composition greatly influences the overall typing experience, with the polycarbonate allowing for more clarity and resonance that is particularly accentuated when RGB lighting is used, owing to its translucent properties.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, both the Cherry MX Orange and the Jwick Taro utilize nylon materials. This shared choice leads to similar acoustic qualities when typing on the lower part of the switch. The nylon bottom housing contributes to the deeper and fuller sound profile in both switches, ensuring that the bottom-out sound and feel evoke a consistent resonance. In this regard, despite the distinct acoustics imparted by their differing top housings, the bottom housings serve to unify their sound profile during key presses, as both incorporate the same material traits that lead to a more muted and rounded auditory experience.
In summary, the Cherry MX Orange and Jwick Taro switches demonstrate a marked contrast in their top housing materials, affecting their overall sound profiles during use. While the MX Orange employs a softer nylon top that results in a duller tone, the Taro's use of polycarbonate enhances clarity and sharpness. On the flip side, both switches align in their choice of nylon for the bottom housing, allowing for a harmonious acoustic experience when the keys are bottomed out. Thus, users can expect similar auditory results during key presses, even as the differing top housings create unique sound experiences when releasing the keys.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, it's clear that they offer different experiences due to their actuation and bottom out forces. The Cherry MX Orange has a known actuation force of 55 grams, which makes it relatively lighter and suitable for prolonged typing sessions or gaming, catering to those who prefer less effort with each keystroke. In contrast, the Jwick Taro's actuation force remains unknown, but it has a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorized as medium-heavy. This suggests that the Taro switch requires more force when reaching the end of its travel, catering to users who appreciate a firmer feedback and a more substantial feeling while typing. As it stands, the MX Orange is the lighter option, while the Taro is heavier, making a choice between them largely dependent on personal preference regarding typing feel and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, the differences are quite clear. The Cherry MX Orange features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it a more traditional choice that caters to those who appreciate a deeper keystroke. In contrast, the Jwick Taro has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm, which may appeal to users seeking a faster response time. While both switches provide a satisfying tactile experience, the longer travel distance of the Cherry MX Orange could be seen as more robust for users who prefer a richer typing feel, whereas the shorter distance of the Taro might feel less abrupt for those looking for quicker actuation without sacrificing much in terms of feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference regarding key depth and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
The Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 of the Cherry MX Orange and the Jwick Taro switches, it's important to note their unique auditory profiles. The MX Orange produces a moderate, subdued sound associated with linear switches, meaning that it operates quietly without the pronounced auditory feedback that typists often seek. In contrast, the Taro switches offer a more vibrant soundscape, characterized by acute and crisp clacks during typing. This results in a more engaging and lively auditory experience, which can make the typing experience feel more dynamic, particularly for those who appreciate a tactile feedback noise.
In terms of feel, the MX Orange delivers a smooth and linear keystroke experience. Its lack of tactility means that there is a consistent pressure throughout the keypress, making it ideal for users who prefer swift transitions between keystrokes without any interruption. On the other hand, the Taro switches incorporate a medium level of tactility, offering a snappy feel that provides noticeable feedback without overwhelming the typist. The ‘buttery’ sensation described indicates a smooth and effortless keystroke, while the ‘stepped’ aspect means users can expect a subtle two-stage feel that distinguishes pre-travel from post-travel, enhancing precision in typing.
In conclusion, both switch options cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Cherry MX Orange is better suited for those who prioritize a smooth, quiet, linear experience, while the Jwick Taro appeals to users seeking a more tactile, engaging typing experience with audible feedback. Your choice will depend on whether you favor a quieter environment or a lively auditory texture, alongside your preference for smooth versus tactile feedback in your keypresses. Ultimately, both can provide satisfying results, albeit through different sensory experiences.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch ultimately boils down to your particular typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you enjoy a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke experience with minimal resistance, the Cherry MX Orange is an excellent choice, particularly for fast-paced gaming where quick, fluid movements are essential. Its linear design ensures that there are no tactile bumps or clicky sounds to distract you during intense sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a more engaging tactile feedback while typing, the Jwick Taro switch may be more suited to your needs. Its medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams provides a sturdy feel, and the buttery-smooth keystroke combined with subtle, stepped tactility enhances your typing experience, making it ideal for long writing sessions or productivity tasks where feedback is key. Ultimately, consider your personal preferences; if you lean towards a seamless, fast experience, go for the Cherry MX Orange, but if you appreciate a tactile sensation that enriches your typing, the Jwick Taro would be your best bet.
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