Cherry MX Purple RGB vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear offer distinct tactile experiences tailored to different user preferences. The Cherry MX Purple RGB is renowned for its refined tactile feedback, featuring a short, medium-strength bump that provides satisfying resistance upon actuation—ideal for typists and gamers who enjoy a clear indication of key presses without overwhelming force. In contrast, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch introduces a silky smooth feel with a unique characteristic: its whisper-quiet topping-out sound paired with a clacky bottom-out noise. This innovative design caters to users who prefer a more subdued typing experience while still enjoying a satisfying key press. While both switches excel in their respective categories—One focusing on tactile feedback and the other on smoothness and noise reduction—personal preference ultimately determines the better choice. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Yes
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 Cherry MX Purple RGB switches to the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches, the most notable difference lies in their top housing materials. The Cherry MX Purple RGB uses a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to absorb sound, producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic results in a softer typing experience that dampens noise and contributes to a more rounded acoustic experience. In contrast, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear incorporates polycarbonate for its top housing, which is stiffer and more transparent. This leads to a sharper and crisper sound profile, enhancing the clarity of keystrokes. The differences in sound quality can thus be attributed primarily to the distinct properties of the two materials, illustrating how the choice of housing influences overall audio feedback while typing.
The bottom housing of both switches, on the other hand, is identical, utilizing nylon as the material of choice for both the Cherry MX Purple RGB and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear. This shared use of nylon in the bottom housing contributes to a deeper, fuller sound, characteristic of switches with nylon components. The bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel, meaning that regardless of the top materials, the similarities in the nylon bottom housing will provide a consistent auditory foundation for both switches. Consequently, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear's polycarbonate top housing may introduce a brighter sound, the shared bottom housing will ensure that the switches exhibit sensations of depth and warmth when pressed.
Ultimately, the different top housing materials serve to fine-tune the user experience and typing acoustics, while the bottom housings maintain a cohesive sound profile. Users seeking a deeper and warmer typing experience may prefer the Cherry MX Purple RGB due to its nylon top housing, while those aiming for a more pronounced and higher-pitched feedback might gravitate toward the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear. However, since both switches possess nylon bottom housings, they will share a similar foundation that contributes to the overall typing experience, maintaining some degree of auditory consistency despite their contrasting top materials.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch with the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Cherry MX Purple RGB has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the actuation force of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear is unknown. However, the Jwick switch has a bottom out force of 62 grams. This indicates that once the key is fully pressed down, it requires a heavier force than the Cherry MX Purple, which does not have a specified bottom out force available. In practical terms, this means the Cherry MX Purple RGB is lighter and may be more comfortable for prolonged use, making it better suited for long typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, with its heavier bottom out force, may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel while typing. Overall, users will want to choose a switch based on their preference for a lighter or heavier keystroke experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, the notable difference is that the Cherry MX Purple RGB has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear measures at 3.7 mm. This makes the Cherry MX Purple RGB the longer option, offering a more substantial feel as you press down, which some users may prefer for a more tactile experience. Conversely, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear's shorter travel distance could appeal to gamers or those seeking a quicker response time, despite feeling a bit more abrupt. Overall, if swift responsiveness is a priority, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear would be the preferable choice; however, if a more pronounced depth is desired, the Cherry MX Purple RGB is the way to go.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 Cherry MX Purple RGB switch is known for its tactile experience with a pronounced bump that produces a distinctive sound profile, although specific details about its sound characteristics are less defined in comparison to the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch. The Semi-Silent Linear, on the other hand, is notable for its subdued sound, delivering a dampened noise upon pressing while still providing a clacky bottom-out sound. This combination allows it to strike a balance, resulting in a neutral audio footprint that makes it suitable for various environments, both at home and in the office. It's crucial to remember that sound perception may vary based on the keyboard setup, including board and keycap choices, which can further influence the overall auditory experience of both switches.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch's tactile feedback is characterized by a short, medium-strength bump that enhances the typing experience, making it enjoyable for tactile feedback enthusiasts. While specific descriptors for the feel are not provided, it's clear from its design intention that it's aimed at providing a balanced tactile experience. The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, conversely, offers a smooth and gentle typing experience indicative of its semi-silent nature. It features a mild feel that is approachable for most users, alongside its snappy responsiveness and buttery smoothness. This switch truly embodies a refined and polished typing experience, allowing for fluid keystrokes and minimal friction, making it ideal for long typing sessions.
In summary, the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch is tailored for those who appreciate tactile feedback alongside the joyous typing experience, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is engineered for users seeking a smooth, quieter, and comfortable feel. While both switches offer appealing qualities, they cater to different preferences. For users prioritizing tactile feedback, the Cherry MX Purple RGB provides a more engaging experience, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear excels in creating a serene typing environment without sacrificing responsiveness or smoothness. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prefer tactile feedback or a silkier typing sensation, keeping in mind that both options can lead to a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you appreciate a tactile experience with a noticeable bump and prefer a switch that provides responsive feedback, the MX Purple RGB may be your best choice. It excels in delivering a refined tactile feel that can enhance your typing and gaming experience, especially if you enjoy knowing you’ve actuated a key. On the other hand, if you seek a smoother, quieter typing experience that is less abrasive on the ears yet still satisfying, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear is a remarkable alternative. Its semi-silent design ensures that while you’ll get that silky-smooth feel during keystrokes, you won’t disturb others around you, making it ideal for shared spaces like offices or homes. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your needs for acoustics, tactile feedback, and the overall typing experience you desire.
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