Gateron Type S vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the Gateron Type S and the Jerrzi Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
We're delighted to introduce the Gateron Type S, a flagship offering from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash," and the Jerrzi Violet switch, both unique in their own right. The Type S is a linear switch known for its weightier keystroke with a 65g bottom-out and a neutral yet deeper acoustic experience, making it ideal for those seeking a substantial typing feel. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet is a tactile switch with a smooth actuation and poppy tactility, providing a balanced and enjoyable typing experience with a neutral sound signature. 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
18mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Type S and the Jerrzi Violet, the main difference lies in the top housing material. The Type S features a nylon top housing, which is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Violet has a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This difference in top housing material affects the overall sound and feel of typing on the switches, making the Type S more muffled and rounder in sound, while the Violet is more clear and resonant.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing material, both the Type S and the Violet use nylon. This similarity means that both switches provide a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is known for its sound absorption properties. However, the bottom housing material primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the key. Therefore, while the top housing material of the switches may be different, the similar bottom housing material ensures that users will still experience a comparable typing experience in terms of sound profile.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Type S and the Jerrzi Violet housing materials ultimately comes down to personal preference. Those who prefer a softer, more muffled sound profile may lean towards the Type S with its nylon top housing. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a sharper and more resonant sound may prefer the Violet with its polycarbonate top housing. However, both switches offer a deep and full sound profile due to their nylon bottom housing, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of the housing material chosen.
Weight
The Gateron Type S linear switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch. The Type S requires 55 grams to actuate and 65 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Violet switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, and the bottom out force is unknown. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Type S due to its heavier forces, while those looking for a lighter typing feel may prefer the Violet switch. Both switches offer different weight options that cater to the preferences of individual users, with the actuation and bottom out forces determining the typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Type S linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch with a travel distance of 3.7 mm. While both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to older models, the slight difference in distance can impact the typing experience. The Type S may provide a more substantial keypress feel due to its longer travel distance, which can be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper keystroke. On the other hand, the Violet switch's shorter travel distance may appeal to users looking for a quicker response time, particularly gamers who value speed and precision in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for keypress depth and tactile feedback.
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 S 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
When it comes to sound, both the Gateron Type S linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch are described as having a neutral sound signature, providing a balanced typing experience suitable for various preferences and environments. The Type S offers a slightly deeper acoustic experience, while the Violet switch produces a poppy tactility that adds to the overall typing satisfaction. However, it is essential to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, while information on the Gateron Type S switch is not provided, the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch is described as having a stepped feel. This means that users can expect a switch with two stages of tactility, offering a more subdued tactile response compared to traditional highly tactile switches. The stepped design provides a unique typing experience that caters to those who prefer a more subtle tactile feedback.
Overall, both the Gateron Type S linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Type S delivers a weightier keystroke and a neutral yet deeper sound profile, the Violet switch provides a smooth actuation and a gentle poppy tactile feel. Whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both, choosing between these switches will ultimately come down to personal preference and the overall typing experience you seek. Rest assured, both switches will provide a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that you will achieve similar results with either choice.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when making a choice between the Gateron Type S linear switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, it all comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a weightier keystroke with a balanced and deeper sound profile, the Type S would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a smooth actuation with a gentle tactile bump and a pleasingly poppy tactility, then the Violet switch would suit your preferences better. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced user, both switches offer a neutral sound profile making them suitable for various typing environments. Consider your typing preferences and needs to determine which switch would enhance your typing experience the most.
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