Cherry MX Speed Silver vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Jerrzi Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Cherry MX Speed Silver and Jerrzi Violet both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. The MX Speed Silver is a linear switch that is ideal for gamers seeking maximum speed and responsiveness, thanks to its low spring resistance and instant triggering action. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet is a tactile switch known for its smooth actuation and pleasant tactility, providing a balanced and enjoyable typing experience. While the MX Speed Silver excels in rapid response time, the Jerrzi Violet offers a more tactile typing 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
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 Speed Silver and Jerrzi Violet both use nylon for their bottom housing, which means they will both provide a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the nylon's ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound overall when typing on these switches. However, the MX Speed Silver features a nylon top housing, while the Jerrzi Violet utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate in the Violet creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the MX Speed Silver. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the Violet allows for better RGB lighting effects, making it more visually appealing for those who enjoy customizable lighting options.
In terms of sound and feel, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the sound produced when bottoming out a key, as well as the overall feel of the key press. Both the MX Speed Silver and Jerrzi Violet share the same nylon bottom housing, meaning they will offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when pressing down on the keys. However, the top housing material will have a more noticeable impact on the sound when releasing a key. The polycarbonate top housing of the Jerrzi Violet will create a crisper sound compared to the MX Speed Silver's nylon top housing, which absorbs more sound to produce a softer, duller sound profile.
Ultimately, the choice between the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Jerrzi Violet will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. While both switches offer a deep and full sound profile due to their shared nylon bottom housing, the difference in top housing material sets them apart in terms of sound crispness and clarity. Those who prioritize a crisper sound profile and the ability to showcase RGB lighting effects may prefer the Jerrzi Violet with its polycarbonate top housing, while others may enjoy the softer, rounder sound of the Cherry MX Speed Silver's nylon top housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, it is evident that the MX Speed Silver is lighter in terms of actuation force at 30 grams, while the Violet requires a heavier actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force, which makes it challenging to determine which one requires more force to press all the way down. Those looking for a light and quick typing experience may prefer the MX Speed Silver due to its lighter actuation force, which can be beneficial for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, users who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Jerrzi Violet with its heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirement.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch. Both switches fall within the category of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those who prioritize fast response times, such as gamers. However, if you prefer a switch with a bit more depth and feedback, the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch may be a better option for you. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and the specific feel you are looking for in a keyboard switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Speed Silver 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 Speed Silver 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 Speed Silver switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, which can be particularly satisfying for those who enjoy a deep and rich auditory feedback while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet switch provides a neutral sound signature that is suitable for a wide range of users, whether they are beginners or experienced typists. The Violet switch offers a balanced sound experience without leaning towards any extreme pitch or tone, making it a versatile choice for various settings.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is known for its textured feel, providing a tactile sensation that may be preferred by some users who appreciate a more noticeable friction during key presses. Conversely, the Jerrzi Violet switch offers a stepped feel, creating a more subtle tactile experience compared to switches with a pronounced bump throughout the keystroke. This mild tactility allows users to feel a slight pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation, adding a layer of feedback without being too pronounced or overwhelming.
Overall, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch excels in providing a rapid and responsive typing experience, ideal for gamers seeking quick key actuation. Its thocky sound and textured feel cater to users who value both auditory and tactile feedback during intense gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet switch offers a gentle tactile feel and a neutral sound profile, appealing to those looking for a balanced and enjoyable typing experience without any extreme characteristics. Depending on personal preferences and the desired typing experience, both switches can provide satisfactory results, ensuring that users can find a suitable option based on their specific requirements.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, you should consider your primary use case. If you are a gamer looking for lightning-fast reaction times and minimal resistance, the MX Speed Silver may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth typing experience with a subtle tactile feedback, the Jerrzi Violet switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value speed and response time (MX Speed Silver) or typing comfort and tactility (Violet) in your mechanical keyboard switches. Choose wisely based on your specific preferences and needs.
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