SP-Star RedBlue vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the SP-Star RedBlue and the Jerrzi Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch to the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, there are distinct differences that cater to varied preferences. The RedBlue switch is lauded for its medium-light typing experience and relatively low-pitched sound profile, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a smooth and refined typing feel. On the other hand, the Violet switch offers a gentle tactile feedback with a smooth actuation and pleasingly poppy tactility, providing a balanced and enjoyable typing experience. While the RedBlue switch is characterized by its 'Thocky' and 'Polished' qualities, the Violet switch is noted for being 'Stepped' and 'Neutral'. Ultimately, both switches have unique features that appeal to different users' preferences. 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star RedBlue and the Jerrzi Violet both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting capabilities. On the other hand, the Violet's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This creates a duller and rounder sound that is distinct from the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate.
In terms of aesthetics, both the RedBlue and the Violet feature clear housings, indicating the use of polycarbonate in their respective top housings. This choice not only enhances the visual appeal of the switches but also plays a significant role in sound production. While both switches aim for a sharp and crisp sound profile, the use of different materials in the bottom housings results in distinct sound qualities. The RedBlue's polycarbonate bottom housing complements the top housing, contributing to a clear and resonant sound when typing, while the Violet's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is noticeably different from the RedBlue.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches like the SP-Star RedBlue and the Jerrzi Violet plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and tactile feel of the switches. While both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, the use of nylon in the Violet's bottom housing creates a different typing experience compared to the RedBlue. The split between top and bottom housing materials allows for a balanced sound profile that combines the crispness of polycarbonate with the depth of nylon, offering users a variety of options based on their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, it is evident that the RedBlue requires no actuation force while the Violet requires 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the RedBlue has a force of 57 grams, whereas the Violet's force is unknown. This makes the RedBlue switch lighter to press for keystrokes with a medium-light bottom out force, while the Violet switch provides a tactile feedback with a lighter actuation force but unknown bottom out force. Depending on personal preference, some may opt for the lighter actuation force of the Violet switch for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the RedBlue switch for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the RedBlue has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Violet. The RedBlue's 4 mm distance is more in line with traditional travel distances, providing a good balance between responsiveness and depth. The Violet's shorter 3.7 mm travel distance may be preferred by gamers seeking faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and how it affects typing or gaming experience. Both switches offer distinctive travel distances, allowing users to tailor their keyboard experience accordingly.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 SP-Star RedBlue linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a mellow and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch also features a neutral sound signature, ensuring a balanced and pleasant typing sound. Both switches are suitable for various environments and preferences, with the RedBlue having a slightly deeper tone due to its low-pitched nature. Ultimately, the sound preference between the two switches would come down to personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard.
Moving on to feel, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is described as providing a mild and polished typing experience. The mild characteristic offers a gentle typing feel that can be appreciated by most users, while the polished finish ensures smooth and refined key presses. In contrast, the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch is labeled as a stepped switch, providing a more subtle tactile feedback with a two-stage feel. This mild tactility allows for a comfortable typing experience without being overly pronounced like some other tactile switches. As with sound, the feel of each switch is subjective and would depend on individual preferences and typing style.
Considering the available information, both the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The RedBlue provides a low-pitched sound profile with a mild and polished feel, while the Violet offers a neutral sound signature with a stepped tactility. While these switches have their own distinct characteristics, they ultimately deliver a satisfying typing experience suitable for a wide range of users. Depending on whether you prefer a smoother linear switch or a more subtle tactile response, both options provide quality and versatility that can enhance your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, choosing between these switches would come down to personal preference in sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the RedBlue switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you enjoy a smooth actuation with a poppy tactility and a balanced typing experience, the Violet switch would be more suitable for you. Consider your typing habits and what you prioritize in a switch when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best aligns with your typing needs.
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