HMX Sunset Gleam vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the HMX Sunset Gleam and the Jerrzi Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly influence your typing experience, and two notable options stand out: the HMX Sunset Gleam and the Jerrzi Violet. The Sunset Gleam, a linear switch recognized for its polished feel and bouncy responsiveness, offers a subtle top-out and a satisfying clack, thanks to HMX's excellent factory lubrication. This switch provides a smooth and uninterrupted flow, making it ideal for those who prefer swift, uninterrupted keystrokes, whether for gaming or typing long documents. In contrast, the Jerrzi Violet is a tactile switch that brings a gentle yet pronounced tactile feedback to each keystroke, creating a more engaging typing experience. With its neutral sound signature, the Violet strikes a balance between audible response and quiet operation, making it suitable for office environments or shared spaces. Each switch has its unique appeal—whether you favor the slick efficiency of the Sunset Gleam or the tactile delight of the Violet. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Sunset Gleam and the Jerrzi Violet, it is evident that both switches utilize the same types of materials in their construction, resulting in a consistent auditory experience across both models. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, known for its ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it an excellent choice for enhancing sound clarity, particularly in switches intended for RGB lighting setups. Given that both the Sunset Gleam and the Violet share this polycarbonate top, users can expect a similar performance in terms of brightness and resonance.
In contrast, the bottom housings of both switches are made from nylon, a material renowned for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. This characteristic is consistent in both the Sunset Gleam and the Violet; hence, when a user types on either switch, they will encounter a similar tactile sensation and sound quality at the bottom-out point, thanks to the nylon bottom housing. The combination of these materials in the bottom housing of both switches provides a rich, satisfying typing experience.
Ultimately, the synergy of materials used in the HMX Sunset Gleam and the Jerrzi Violet creates a balanced combination of sound qualities. While the polycarbonate top amplifies the sharper frequencies, enhancing clarity during key releases, the nylon bottom enriches the sound during keystrokes with a warmer, fuller tone. This thoughtful design ensures that both switches deliver a cohesive auditory experience, with each material contributing its unique characteristics to the overall sound profile. Users can expect not just similarities in sound but a harmonious blend of properties that define the performance of both the Sunset Gleam and the Violet.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, we find distinct characteristics in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Sunset Gleam requires an actuation force of 42 grams, which is relatively light, making it suitable for extended typing sessions and gaming without fatigue. In contrast, the Violet switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel while typing. However, the bottom out force for the Violet switch is not specified, which leaves its full tactile experience somewhat ambiguous. Nevertheless, users can expect a firmer push with the Violet switch due to its higher actuation force. Overall, the Sunset Gleam is the lighter switch, while the Violet offers a heavier feel, ideal for those seeking a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, the Sunset Gleam features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Violet offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that the Violet switch provides a more pronounced depth when pressed, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying tactile feedback. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Sunset Gleam aligns with the trend towards quicker response times, potentially appealing to gamers looking for heightened performance. Ultimately, if you prefer more responsiveness, the Sunset Gleam would be the better choice; however, if you enjoy a more substantial feel, the Violet's longer travel distance might be the way to go.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Sunset Gleam has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sunset Gleam for $2.99.
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 HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch produces a resonant auditory experience characterized by a higher-pitched sound profile. This can create an immersive typing atmosphere, with a clean and sharp sound that can be satisfying for those who appreciate more pronounced acoustics. In contrast, the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch boasts a neutral sound signature, which means it has a moderate sound profile that suits a variety of environments, making it versatile for both home and office use. While the Sunset Gleam emphasizes a more vibrant auditory feedback, the Violet's balanced sound may appeal to users who prefer a quieter typing experience, especially in shared settings. The overall sound profile will still depend on the choice of keyboard and keycaps, but the inherent characteristics offer a clear distinction.
In terms of feel, the Sunset Gleam excels with its polished, bouncy, and silky feedback, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. This can lead to reduced friction during key presses, allowing for effortless key travel and a lively sensation with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet features a stepped tactile feel, which allows for a more mild sensation during typing. While it still offers decent feedback, it lacks the pronounced rebound and fluidity of the Sunset Gleam. The Violet's tactile bump is more subtle, giving users a satisfying sense of engagement without becoming overwhelming, making it ideal for those who prefer a more tempered feel while typing.
In conclusion, the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch cater to different preferences in both sound and feel. The Sunset Gleam is excellent for those who appreciate a resonant sound and an incredibly smooth, bouncy typing sensation. Meanwhile, the Violet appeals to users who prefer a neutral acoustic profile with a more subdued tactile feedback that still provides some engagement. Opting for either switch will yield enjoyable typing experiences, but the distinct characteristics highlight the importance of personal preferences in choosing the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you favor a light touch with an exceptionally smooth and refined feel, the HMX Sunset Gleam is ideal, particularly for fast-paced gaming or extensive typing sessions where a silky experience is paramount. The resonant sound profile and bouncy feedback make it a great choice for those who enjoy an immersive auditory experience while typing. Alternatively, if you prefer a more tactile response with a balanced sound signature, the Jerrzi Violet switches offer a gentle, stepped tactile feel that can enhance your typing experience without being overly obtrusive. This makes them suitable for a wider range of environments, whether at work or home, for both beginners and seasoned typists. In essence, if you prioritize speed and fluidity, go for the Sunset Gleam; if you appreciate a pleasing tactile bump and versatility, the Violet is your best bet.
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