KTT Strawberry vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the KTT Strawberry and the Jerrzi Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Strawberry, a linear switch, and the Jerrzi Violet, a tactile switch, there are distinct qualities that set them apart. The Strawberry is favored for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a low-pitched, frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet offers a gentle tactile feedback and poppy tactility, accompanied by a neutral sound signature for a balanced and enjoyable typing experience. Both switches have their unique strengths and appeal to different 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 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 KTT Strawberry and Jerrzi Violet both share the use of polycarbonate in their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of the polycarbonate material contributes to a clear and resonant sound when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the bottom housing material differs between the two switches. The Strawberry utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing as well, while the Violet features a nylon bottom housing. Typing on the Strawberry will provide a consistent sound profile throughout the keystroke, while the Violet's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature.
The material used in the bottom housing of a switch can impact the overall typing experience. In the case of the KTT Strawberry, both the top and bottom housings are made of polycarbonate, ensuring a consistent sound profile and feel when typing. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when pressed. The top housing, regardless of the material used, plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, the usage of different materials in the top and bottom housings can lead to a varied typing experience between the two switches.
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Strawberry and Jerrzi Violet, it is clear that both switches prioritize the sound profile created during typing. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches results in a sharp and clear sound when typing, with the option for RGB lighting. While the Strawberry maintains consistency with polycarbonate in the bottom housing as well, the Violet incorporates a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference regarding the sound and feel desired during typing sessions.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Strawberry linear switch to the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, it is clear that the Strawberry has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Violet's 45 grams. However, the Strawberry has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, while the bottom out force of the Violet is unknown. This means that the Strawberry provides a smoother typing experience with a lighter initial press, but requires more force to fully press the key down compared to the Violet. Both switches offer a medium actuation force, but the Strawberry leans towards a heavier bottom out force, which may be preferred by those seeking a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Strawberry linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the Violet switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Strawberry switch. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Strawberry being on the longer side. Players who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the Violet switch with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more deliberate key press may opt for the Strawberry switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
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 KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91 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 KTT Strawberry linear switch offers a low-pitched tone, providing a bass-heavy and mellow sound during typing. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch boasts a neutral sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement that caters to a wide range of users' preferences. Keep in mind that the sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the KTT Strawberry switch is known for its frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished typing experience, providing a smooth and refined feel with minimal resistance. In contrast, the Jerrzi Violet switch offers a stepped tactile feel, with a gentler tactility that has distinct pre-travel and/or post-travel sensations. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience by offering unique tactile feedback and smooth keystrokes, catering to different preferences for typing feel.
In conclusion, the KTT Strawberry and Jerrzi Violet switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel, making them suitable for users with different preferences in keyboard switches. While the Strawberry switch provides a low-pitched sound and a frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished feel, the Violet switch offers a neutral sound profile and a stepped tactile feel. Depending on whether you prefer a bass-heavy sound with smooth actuation or a balanced sound with gentle tactility, both switches have their own unique features to enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, trying out both switches will allow you to determine which one suits your preferences best.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Strawberry linear switch or the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, you should opt for the Strawberry if you prioritize a medium bottom out force, a smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. The Strawberry's low-pitched sound and frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished feel make it a great choice for those looking for a seamless and enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with no specified bottom out force, a gentle tactile feel, and a neutral sound signature, then the Violet switch would be the better option for you. The Violet's stepped feel provides a mild tactile experience, making it suitable for those seeking a balanced typing sensation. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style to ensure the best match for your needs.
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