Cherry MX Red vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the Jerrzi Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering between the Cherry MX Red and the Jerrzi Violet mechanical keyboard switches, it is important to note their distinct characteristics. The MX Red is a linear switch known for its slightly heavier feel and deeper sound profile, providing a robust typing experience that blends responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. In comparison, the Jerrzi Violet is a tactile switch known for its smooth actuation and pleasant tactility, offering a balanced and enjoyable typing experience with a neutral sound signature. While the MX Red may appeal to those who prefer a more textured typing experience, the Violet may be preferable for those seeking a gentler tactile feedback. 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
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 housing materials of the Cherry MX Red and Jerrzi Violet switches differ significantly in terms of sound profiles. The MX Red features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Violet switch utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in top housing materials leads to distinct auditory experiences when typing on these switches.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the MX Red and Violet switches use nylon. This commonality means that the bottom housing of both switches elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is known for its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. While the top housing materials may differ between the two switches, the shared use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a similar tactile and auditory experience when pressing down on keys. This consistency in the bottom housing material may appeal to users looking for a specific sound profile in their mechanical keyboard switches.
Overall, the choice between the Cherry MX Red and Jerrzi Violet switches will greatly depend on individual preferences for sound profiles. The MX Red's nylon top housing delivers a duller and rounder sound, while the Violet's polycarbonate top housing offers a clearer and more resonant sound. However, both switches provide a similar experience in terms of bottom housing materials, as the nylon composition contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Ultimately, users looking for a specific sound profile in their mechanical keyboards may find the housing materials of these switches to play a significant role in their decision-making process.
Weight
Comparing the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, both have a similar actuation force of 45 grams, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming. However, the bottom out force for both switches is unknown. The actuation force of 45 grams allows for a quick and responsive typing experience on both switches. The Cherry MX Red switch is known for its smooth keystrokes without any tactile bump, while the Jerrzi Violet switch provides a slight tactile feedback for a more satisfying typing feel. For users who prefer a lighter touch and a linear feel, the Cherry MX Red switch would be the better option, while those who prefer a subtle tactile feedback may lean towards the Jerrzi Violet switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Cherry MX Red linear switch is 4.0mm, while the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7mm. In this case, the Cherry MX Red has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Jerrzi Violet. The difference may not be significant, but it could potentially affect the typing or gaming experience for some users. Those who prefer a more responsive feel may gravitate towards the Jerrzi Violet with its shorter travel distance, as it allows for faster response times. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a deeper keypress may opt for the Cherry MX Red despite its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for the user. Both switches offer a satisfactory travel distance, so users can expect similar results in terms of overall performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
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 Red switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched profile, providing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet switch offers a neutral sound signature, making it suitable for various typing environments without being too overwhelming. Keep in mind that the actual sound produced will also depend on other factors such as the keyboard's build and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Red switch is described as textured, providing a tactile feedback that some users may appreciate for a more engaging typing experience. In contrast, the Jerrzi Violet switch is noted for its stepped tactile feedback, offering a more subtle tactility with distinct pre-travel and post-travel stages. Depending on personal preference, users may lean towards either a textured or stepped feel for their typing needs.
Overall, when comparing the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, both options offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the MX Red provides a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, the Violet switch offers a smooth actuation and a poppy tactility with a neutral sound profile. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. However, rest assured that both switches are reputable choices that will deliver reliable performance for your mechanical keyboard needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, it's important to consider your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile with a responsive typing experience, the MX Red may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth actuation with a gentle tactile feedback and a balanced sound profile, the Violet switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for your typing needs. Choose wisely and enjoy the satisfying typing experience that your chosen switch provides.
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