Gateron Silent Ink Black vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the Gateron Silent Ink Black and the Jerrzi Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Silent Ink Black and the Jerrzi Violet mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Silent Ink Black is a linear switch that is ideal for environments where quiet typing is essential, offering a soft bottom-out feel and minimal audio feedback. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet is a tactile switch known for its smooth actuation and satisfying tactile feedback. While the Silent Ink Black is categorized as 'Silky', 'Muted', and 'Polished', the Violet is described as 'Stepped' and 'Neutral'. If you prefer a quieter typing experience with a cushioned feel, the Silent Ink Black may be the way to go. However, if you enjoy a more tactile typing experience with a poppy feedback, the Jerrzi Violet could be the better choice. 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Silent Ink Black and the Jerrzi Violet, it is clear that the Silent Ink Black utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housings. This blend creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet features a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing gives a deeper and fuller sound.
Despite the differences in material for the top and bottom housings between the Gateron Silent Ink Black and the Jerrzi Violet, both switches offer unique sound profiles. The Silent Ink Black's INK blend provides a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound that is not overly sharp, while the Violet's polycarbonate top housing creates a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of the Violet absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. Overall, both switches offer distinct auditory experiences based on their housing materials.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Silent Ink Black and the Jerrzi Violet ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The Silent Ink Black offers a clacky sound profile with its INK blend housing, while the Violet provides a crisper and clearer sound with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing combination. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, whether one prefers a higher-pitched sound or a fuller sound. Ultimately, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch, depending on their sound preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, it is clear that the Silent Ink Black is heavier in both aspects. The Silent Ink Black has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, with an unknown bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may gravitate towards the Jerrzi Violet, as the lighter actuation force allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the heavier actuation force of the Silent Ink Black may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force weight.
Travel distance
The Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. The Silent Ink Black offers a more traditional travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a standard key press feel. On the other hand, the Violet switch provides a slightly quicker response time with its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch offers a muted typing experience, ideal for environments where noise level is a concern. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various settings. The choice between the two would largely depend on personal preference and the specific environment in which the keyboard will be used.
When it comes to feel, the Silent Ink Black switch is known for its silky and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and refined feel with minimal resistance. In contrast, the Jerrzi Violet switch provides a stepped tactile feedback with two distinct stages in the keystroke, offering a gentle and smooth actuation. Again, the preference for one over the other would be based on individual typing style and comfort preference.
Overall, while the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in sound and feel, both switches provide a unique typing experience suited for different preferences. If you prefer a quieter typing experience with a cushion-like bottom-out feel, the Silent Ink Black switch may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a gentle tactile feedback with a balanced and enjoyable typing experience, the Jerrzi Violet switch could be more appealing. Ultimately, trying out both switches or considering your personal preferences will help you decide which switch is the best fit for your typing needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, consider the environment in which you will be using the keyboard. If you require a quieter typing experience, especially in shared or noise-sensitive settings, the Silent Ink Black would be the better option with its cushioned bottom-out feel and muted sound profile. On the other hand, if you appreciate a gentle tactile feedback and a smooth actuation, the Violet switch would provide a balanced and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, your preference for a silent typing experience or a tactile feedback will guide you in selecting the most suitable switch for your mechanical keyboard.
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