Outemu Brown vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the Outemu Brown and the Jerrzi Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Brown, a tactile switch, and the Jerrzi Violet, also a tactile switch. The Outemu Brown switch is known for its reliable performance and is categorized as a tactile switch. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet switches are gentle tactile switches, praised for their smooth actuation and pleasingly poppy tactility, accompanied by a neutral sound signature, providing a balanced and enjoyable typing experience. Choosing the Outemu Brown switch may be ideal for those looking for a standard tactile typing experience, while the Jerrzi Violet switch is a great option for users who prefer smoother and more pronounced tactile feedback. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the most suitable switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
53g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.20 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Brown and Jerrzi Violet both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, leading to a similar sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic that enhances the resonance and clarity of the sound produced by the switch. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to both switches. The shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing ensures that users can expect a consistent sound experience when typing on either switch.
In contrast, the Outemu Brown and Jerrzi Violet differ in their choice of bottom housing material, with the Brown featuring a nylon bottom housing and the Violet utilizing the same material. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, providing a distinct acoustic experience compared to the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housings. The split between nylon and polycarbonate in the bottom and top housing of each switch respectively allows users to feel the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, while both the Outemu Brown and Jerrzi Violet share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing, their choice of bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of the sound profile they produce. The Brown's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound experience, while the Violet's nylon bottom housing provides a more rounded and dull sound. Ultimately, the combination of different housing materials in each switch contributes to a unique typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, it is evident that the Brown has a higher actuation force of 53 grams compared to the Violet's 45 grams, making the Brown switch slightly heavier to press down initially. However, the Brown switch also has a higher bottom out force of 65 grams, while the bottom out force of the Violet switch is unknown. This means that the Brown switch requires more force to press the key all the way down compared to the Violet switch. In terms of weight preference, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Violet switch, while those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Brown switch. Overall, individuals using either switch will get a similar tactile experience, but with slight variances in actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4mm, while the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7mm. This makes the Violet switch the shorter option between the two. A 0.3mm may seem slight, but it can make a difference in how the keys feel and respond. Gamers and those looking for a faster response time may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Violet switch. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Brown switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Outemu Brown comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 Outemu Brown switch is known for a neutral sound profile, meaning it offers a moderate sound level that is suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet switch is also described as having a neutral sound signature, providing a balanced and pleasant typing experience that is neither too loud nor too quiet. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar sound experience that can be further influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycap material.
As for feel, the Outemu Brown switch does not have a specific tactile description provided. In contrast, the Jerrzi Violet switch is characterized as having a stepped tactile feel. This means that the Violet switch provides a two-stage tactile feedback, with a mild tactile bump that is distinct from more aggressive tactile switches. Users who prefer a smoother and more subtle tactile typing experience may find the Jerrzi Violet switch to be appealing.
In conclusion, both the Outemu Brown and Jerrzi Violet switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Brown switch provides a neutral sound profile without a specific tactile description, the Violet switch stands out for its gentle and stepped tactile feel. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between a more balanced and versatile sound of the Brown switch or the smoother and more moderate tactile feel of the Violet switch. It's important to consider individual typing preferences and habits when selecting between these two switches to ensure an optimal typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy tactile switch with a distinct bump and satisfying feedback, the Outemu Brown switches would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and gentler tactile experience with a neutral sound profile, the Jerrzi Violet switches would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for typing feel and sound, so consider your typing style and preferences before making your final choice.
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