Gateron Type L vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the Gateron Type L and the Jerrzi Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron Type L, a linear switch, and the Jerrzi Violet, a tactile switch, each offering a distinct typing experience. The Type L is renowned for its lightness and deep sound signature, making it ideal for those who prefer a feathery and easy-to-press keyboard switch. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet stands out with its smooth actuation and pleasingly poppy tactility, providing a balanced and enjoyable typing experience for users. 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
38g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Nylon
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
The housing materials of the Gateron Type L and Jerrzi Violet differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Type L features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic absorbing more sound. In contrast, the Violet utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile as a result of its stiffer plastic composition. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the nylon bottom housing of both switches provides a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition.
Despite the differences in their top housing materials, both the Gateron Type L and Jerrzi Violet share a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar sound profile. The nylon material of the bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, offering a consistent typing experience between the two switches. However, the top housing materials of the Type L and Violet create distinct sound profiles, with the Type L's nylon housing producing a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper and crisper sound of the Violet's polycarbonate housing.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Type L and Jerrzi Violet housing materials largely depends on personal preference for sound profile. The nylon housing of the Type L provides a softer and more rounded sound, while the polycarbonate housing of the Violet offers a sharper and clearer sound. Regardless of the top housing material, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures a consistent and deep sound profile for both switches. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to individual preferences for sound and typing feel.
Weight
The Gateron Type L linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Type L requires 45 grams, while the Violet's bottom out force is unknown. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Type L for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, while others may appreciate the heavier actuation force of the Violet for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and key responsiveness.
Travel distance
The Gateron Type L linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. This makes the Violet switch slightly shorter in travel distance compared to the Type L. The shorter travel distance on the Violet switch may appeal to those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Type L with its slightly longer travel distance may provide a more deliberate and satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper keypress. Both switches offer a different feel based on their travel distances, so depending on personal preference, one may be more suitable than the other. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual typing preferences and needs.
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 Gateron Type L comes in at $4.70 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
In terms of sound, both the Gateron Type L and Jerrzi Violet switches offer a neutral sound profile, suitable for various typing environments. The Type L provides a slightly deeper sound, leaning towards the subdued end of the spectrum, while the Violet switch delivers a more balanced and gentle sound experience. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Type L is known for its feathery and easy-to-press qualities, offering a light and effortless typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during extended use. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet switch is described as stepped, providing a tactile sensation with distinct stages during the keystroke. This unique feel adds a touch of feedback for users who prefer a more pronounced tactile response.
Overall, both the Gateron Type L and Jerrzi Violet switches offer distinct characteristics in sound and feel. The Type L stands out with its light actuation force and deeper sound profile, ideal for those seeking a smooth typing experience with a subtle sound feedback. Meanwhile, the Jerrzi Violet switch provides a balanced tactile feel with a neutral sound signature, appealing to users looking for a gentle yet engaging typing sensation. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback in mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light and easy-to-press switch with a subtle and subdued sound profile, the Gateron Type L linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. It is perfect for those who prefer a feathery feel and a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum. On the other hand, if you enjoy a tactile typing experience with a smooth actuation and a pleasing poppy tactility, the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch is the way to go. Its stepped feel adds a unique touch to your typing sessions, while the neutral sound signature provides a balanced and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preference for feel and sound.
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