Cherry MX Purple RGB vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Jerrzi Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular choices among enthusiasts are the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Jerrzi Violet switches. The Cherry MX Purple RGB is renowned for its refined tactile feel, featuring a short, medium-strength bump developed in collaboration with keyboard expert Glarses, making it an excellent option for those seeking feedback without excessive resistance. In contrast, the Jerrzi Violet switches provide a gentle tactile sensation that stands out due to their smooth actuation and poppy tactility, creating a balanced and enjoyable typing experience with a neutral sound signature. While both switches offer tactile feedback that enhances typing comfort, the Cherry MX Purple RGB is ideal for users who appreciate a more pronounced tactile bump, while the Jerrzi Violet caters to those who prefer a subtler, yet still satisfying tactile response. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your particular typing needs.
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
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
The Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Jerrzi Violet switches exhibit notable differences in their top housing materials, namely nylon for the MX Purple RGB and polycarbonate for the Jerrzi Violet. The nylon used in the MX Purple RGB’s top housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as this softer plastic absorbs more sound, thereby producing a rounded auditory experience. In contrast, the polycarbonate housing of the Jerrzi Violet results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This is because polycarbonate, being a stiffer material, enhances clarity and resonance within the sound, creating an acoustic environment that is distinctly crisper. If both switches were employed in a sound-sensitive environment, the MX Purple RGB would likely deliver a more subdued auditory experience, while the Jerrzi Violet would stand out for its bright and vibrant sound.
When examining the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon material, which unifies their sound profiles in certain respects. The use of nylon here reinforces the deeper, fuller sound quality contributed by the softer plastic, supporting a consistent auditory experience across keystrokes. As a result, while the top housings differ, their bottom housings create a cohesive bottom-out sound that resonates similarly. This shared characteristic means that users may perceive a comparable feeling when pressing the keys down, rooted in the nylon's ability to absorb sound effectively. The consistent use of nylon helps bridge the gap between the two switches, providing a familiar tactile experience regardless of the differentiation seen in the top housing materials.
Nonetheless, the overall experience of each switch can be influenced significantly by the combination of housing materials utilized. The MX Purple RGB’s nylon top and bottom housings poise the switch for a harmonious but muted sound characteristic, appealing to users who prefer a softer and more natural typing experience. Meanwhile, the Jerrzi Violet, with its polycarbonate top and nylon bottom, merges the crispness of its top housing's sound with the warmth of the nylon bottom to create a unique auditory interaction. Users who seek the vibrant aesthetics of RGB lighting along with a resonant sound will favor the polycarbonate's clarity in the Jerrzi Violet. Consequently, while there are similarities in the nylon bottom, the contrasting top housings yield distinctly different auditory experiences, showcasing the impact housing materials can have on the overall sound and feel of keyboard switches.
Weight
The Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch exhibit the same actuation force of 45 grams, which means that both switches require an equal amount of pressure to trigger a keystroke. This similarity suggests that users looking for a consistent typing experience may find both options appealing. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, both switches have this information listed as unavailable, making it impossible to draw a comparison in that aspect. Without knowing the bottom out forces, we can't determine whether one is heavier than the other when pressed to the maximum. Consequently, while the actuation forces align both switches in terms of typing effort, the absence of bottom out data leaves an important metric undefined. Ultimately, for users preferring a lighter switch feel for extended typing sessions, both the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Jerrzi Violet would be suitable options based on their actuation force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, there is a distinct difference; the Cherry MX Purple RGB features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Violet offers a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that users who prefer a more traditional depth in their key presses may find the Cherry MX Purple RGB more appealing, as it provides that hearty feedback typical of longer travel distances. On the other hand, gamers or those who favor speed and responsiveness might prefer the Jerrzi Violet's 3.7 mm travel distance for a quicker actuation. Thus, if you're looking for a more pronounced key press, the Cherry MX Purple RGB would be your choice, whereas the Jerrzi Violet caters to those who enjoy a snappier feel.
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 Jerrzi Violet has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet for $2.30.
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 features a relatively moderate sound profile, which aligns with its purpose of providing an enjoyable typing experience without being overly loud or distracting. This characteristic allows it to fit well in various environments, whether at home or in an office setting. Conversely, the Jerrzi Violet switch boasts a neutral sound signature, contributing to a balanced auditory experience that is equally versatile. Both switches are suitable for a range of users, as their sound profiles minimize noise distractions while typing. However, it's important to note that the final sound output can be influenced by factors like keycap material and the keyboard's construction.
In terms of feel, the MX Purple RGB delivers a generally refined tactile experience characterized by a medium-strength bump, which provides a satisfying feedback during typing without being overly aggressive. This switch offers a smooth transition through the key press, catering well to those who enjoy a balanced tactile response. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet switch is defined by its gentle and stepped tactile feedback, which features a more subdued two-stage feel. Users may appreciate the distinct pre-travel and post-travel sensations that give a nuanced touch to each keystroke. While the Jerrzi Violet's tactility is milder compared to the more pronounced bump of the MX Purple RGB, both switches still facilitate a pleasant typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Cherry MX Purple RGB and Jerrzi Violet switches present their unique qualities, they share similarities in providing a versatile auditory experience that caters to both beginners and seasoned typists alike. Regarding the feel, the variations between a more robust tactile bump and a gentle stepped response allow users to choose according to their typing style preferences. Both options promise satisfying tactile experiences suitable for a variety of settings, ultimately enhancing the mechanical keyboard experience tailored to individual tastes.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, your personal preferences and intended usage will play a crucial role. If you value a refined tactile experience with a satisfying medium-strength bump, the Cherry MX Purple RGB might be your best choice, especially for tasks that involve fast-paced typing or gaming, where the feedback can enhance your accuracy and speed. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother actuation coupled with a balanced sound profile, the Jerrzi Violet is likely more suited to your needs, particularly in environments where quietness is appreciated, like an office setting or shared spaces. The stepped feel of the Violet switch can provide a unique typing experience for those who enjoy a less intense tactile response, making it versatile for both casual typing and more focused work. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your comfort and how you plan to use your keyboard, ensuring that you find the switch that feels right for you.
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