Gateron switches are considered to be the smoothest mechanical switches available. Moreover, even though Gateron does not gain a reputation as a high-end switch line, it still offers the most affordable options while ensuring its high quality.
However, given the numerous options available, you may find it difficult to decide which Gateron mechanical switches to buy. Lucky for you, we are here with a detailed overview of the different Gateron switches to help you make the right choice.
Gateron switches are produced by Gateron, a Chinese manufacturer based in Guangdong since 2000.
In addition to making many clones of Cherry MX switches, this brand also manufactures batteries, Gateron keycaps, and other products.
Until now, Gateron is still expanding its market share in the mechanical switches market although it has done very little conventional marketing.
We will break down these 8 Gateron mechanical switches types based on three key criteria as follow:
This way, we will help you get a detailed comparison of major aspects. Let’s get going with the summary table!
|
Color |
Type | Operating Force | Activation Point | Travel Distance | Noise Level | Suitable For |
|
Red |
Linear | 45g | 2mm | 4mm | Low | Office/gaming |
|
Blue |
Clicky | 60g | 2.3mm | 4mm | Loud | Typist |
|
Brown |
Tactile | 55g | 2mm | 4mm | Medium | Midway Office/gaming |
|
White |
Linear | 35g | 2mm | 4mm | Low |
Office/gaming |
| Yellow | Linear | 50g | 2mm | 4mm | Low |
Midway Office/gaming |
| Black | Linear | 60g | 2mm | 4mm | Low |
Office/gaming |
| Green | Clicky | 80g | 2.4mm | 4mm | Loud |
Typist |
| Clear | Linear | 35g | 2mm | 4mm | Low |
Midway Office/gaming |
If you are unfamiliar with the terms above, check out this guide to mechanical switches for further details.
Since Gateron Red switch is a linear switch that helps reduce typing noise, it has become the most widely used switch of this brand.
Gateron Blue, which has a special clicky touch feeling, is generally loud. Besides, the smoothness and tactile feedback of the Gateron Switch is still apparent.
This structure makes these Gateron switches ideal for typists and gamers who spend a lot of time on the computer because it allows them to type for a long period without getting exhausted.
Nonetheless, because this switch emits more audible feedback, you should keep in mind your surroundings when using it.
The Gateron Brown switches combine elements of both blue and red switches.
While still smooth, the vertical press also generates a bumpy feeling. The tactile event in Gateron Brown switches comes at a distance of around 1.2mm, and it is extremely soft and hardly noticeable.
Thus, when typing, Gateron Brown switches will not make much noise that will distract you or those around you. For that reason, if you are a night owl for work or gaming, Gateron Brown switches can be your partner at midnight.
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Among the linear switches, the Gateron White switch offers the least actuation force.
The Gateron’s smooth quality makes it possible to trigger it with a negligibly small amount of force, which makes typing it a breeze. The sound generated during typing will also be nice and quiet as you don’t need to apply a lot of heavy pressure.
People who enjoy these above features will appreciate white switches much more. Yet, it may seem too light and gentle for some people to press (even accidentally touched) if they want a stronger response.
Recently, Gateron Yellow switches have become extremely popular common.
It has the same layout as the red switch but features a 50g stronger operating force while the red switch has a 45g operating force. This difference seems to be tiny but it does produce a different feeling. The yellow switch has stiffer feedback, although it can be activated with less force.
This is the greatest option for those who prefer a fast rebound, a more rigid feel, and a feeling of pressure.
Read this post: Gateron Yellow Switches Review: Is it the Best Budget Linear Switch? to learn more about this switch type.
You can consider this option – Gateron Black switches if you enjoy strong, firm yet smooth feedback.
This linear switch is the strongest regular mass-produced switch. Strong actuation forces have the advantage of applying more pressure and providing better mechanical feedback, which makes it more difficult to push the wrong button.
The Gateron black switch is likely to be preferred by those who prefer mechanical keyboards and a greater trigger force.
Don’t forget to check Gateron Ink Black Buying guide and Review before placing an order.
Many people consider Gateron’s Green switch to be an improved version of Gateron’s Blue switch. The press force of 80g is 20g greater than that of the Blue switch. The green switch provides a faster rebound and greater feedback.
We strongly advise this switch for individuals who want a strong, vintage typewriter touch.
While all of the switches mentioned above are regarded as Cherry MX “clones” due to their same design. The Gateron Clear switch is the only one that is slightly different from Cherry MX.
The Gateron Clear is a super-light linear switch instead of a hefty tactile one.
White and Gateron Clear are both similar. They are linear switches with a 35g actuation force, which makes them easy to type. In addition, the sound is not too loud.
Gateron clears are excellent if you naturally use quite minimal pressure during typing or playing games and believe you can manage something even lighter.
One aspect that helps Gateron stand out from the strong brand – Cherry is its special Gateron switch lines.
|
Color |
Type | Operating
Force |
Activation
Point |
Noise
Level |
|
Silent Red |
Linear | 45g | 2mm | Silent |
|
Silent Yellow |
Linear | 50g | 2mm |
Silent |
| Silent Black | Linear | 60g | 2mm |
Silent |
| Silent Brown | Tactile | 45g | 2mm |
Silent |
| Silent Clear | Linear | 35g | 2mm |
Silent |
A silent switch differs from a standard switch in that the stem has tiny rubber cushioning mounted from both sides to reduce noise when it is struck and returned.
With this in mind, Gateron borrowed the concept from Cherry MX to create their silent switch lines.
As a result, the Gateron silent switch has substantially lower sound levels than a regular switch. Generally, silent switches are approximately 16% quieter than regular switches.
Additionally, Gateron gives a lot more alternatives than Cherry MX, which only presently provides a Silent Red and Black switch.
However, some people do not like silent switches because of their rubbery feel, while some truly like this feature of the switch.
|
Color |
Type | Operating
Force |
Activation
Point |
Noise
Level |
|
Milk Red |
Linear | 45g | 2mm | Low |
|
Milk Yellow |
Linear | 50g | 2mm | Low |
|
Milk Black |
Linear | 60g | 2mm | Low |
| Milk Blue | Clicky | 60g | 2.3mm |
Loud |
| Milk Green | Clicky | 80g | 2.4mm |
Loud |
| Milk Brown | Tactile | 55g | 2mm |
Medium |
| Milk Clear | Linear | 35g | 2mm |
Low |
These Gateron Milk switches will surely impress you if you are looking for a unique feel. Although they have a unique housing design, they are otherwise rather similar to regular Gateron switches.
In place of the traditional clear top and black bottom housing, the milk switches have colored housing with a “milky” tone that aids in diffusing the RGB lights.
Moreover, while the milk switches give it a less intense feeling, the normal switch housing shines RGB lighting right into your eyes. Except for the difference in housing color, Milk switches have the same general sound and feel.
For a detailed comparison, watch this video:
|
Color |
Type | Operating
Force |
Activation
Point |
Noise
Level |
|
Ink Red |
Linear | 45cN | 2mm | Low |
|
Ink Yellow |
Linear | 50cN | 2mm | Low |
| Ink Black | Linear | 60cN | 2mm |
Low |
| Ink Blue | Clicky | 60cN | 2.3mm |
Loud |
| Silent Ink Black | Linear | 60cN | 2mm |
Silent |
This will be a premium choice for you – Gateron Ink switches, which differ slightly from Gateron’s standard switches.
The clear smokey housing, different materials, smoother feel, and lower pitch sound are the Ink switches’ distinguishing features.
Depending on the type of switch you use, the lower and top housing of the Ink’s are similar in color, known as “smoky housing.”
Although Gateron won’t disclose the specifications, the material for the Inks is different. Thanks to the smoother keystroke, we may conclude by feeling that the plastic most likely has a lower coefficient of friction.
After all, if you value quality and are willing to pay for it, ink switches are an excellent option to achieve a unique colored housing and an incredibly smooth keystroke.
|
Color |
Type | Operating
Force |
Activation
Point |
Noise
Level |
|
Low-Profile Red |
Linear | 45cN | 1.5mm | Low |
| Low-Profile Brown | Tactile | 55cN | 1.5mm |
Medium |
| Low-Profile Blue | Clicky | 50cN | 1.5mm |
Loud |
The last switch in this special line is Gateron low-profile switch, which is made totally different from regular switches. A unique-shaped stem and a substantially shorter actuation, as well as travel distance, are features of this switch type.
The advantages of this switch design include the ability to create mechanical keyboards that are more compact and have shorter actuation distances, which are faster for gaming in theory.
However, the shorter actuation is more challenging to type on for some, while others prefer this style because a compact keyboard will bring their wrists comfortable.
As a result, the Gateron low-profile switch is extremely ideal for gaming thanks to its decreased actuation distance.
If you want to know more about low profile switches, this Low-Profile Switches Guide is for you.
Whether you prefer switches for typing, gaming, or something in between, Gateron’s got your back.
If gaming is what you have in mind, then the red or black Gateron switches are your best bet.
Or if you are a typist, there will be more options for you. However, you need to check out the other factors below to find out the right switches for you.
While the click-clack sound of some switches may please your feelings, it is incredibly annoying to everyone around you.
Therefore, you must take your surroundings into account before selecting a loud switch.
If you want to feel and hear a click, choose Gateron blue switches with a tactile and auditory click.. These switches are the loudest ones Gateron offers.
Otherwise, if you want clicky keys but don’t want to bother others, we recommend a softer switch, such as the Gateron Clear or the Gateron Black.
When it comes to design, Gateron specialty switches are the best option.
If you are a keyboard switch hunter, the Milk and Ink switches will definitely draw your attention with many housing styles really add a distinctive design. This has enabled Gateron to prove its brand is now more than just a Cherry MX copycat company.
If you’re willing to pay a little extra, we recommend checking out the Gateron Ink lineup for some extra smooth switches.
Otherwise, you can prefer other standard Gateron mechanical switches if you are on a budget.
Other factors to consider before purchasing Gateron switches are their technical features. Here they are:
The feel of Cherry MX and Gateron mechanical switches differs most noticeably when putting them into a comparison. Gateron switches feel better than Cherry switches because they are much smoother.
In terms of price, Cherry MX switches cost more as they are more high-quality and durable than Gateron switches.
Gateron switches are a better choice if you’re on a tight budget, whereas Cherry switches may be preferable for a premium keyboard.
| Cherry MX | Gateron |
| Scratchier | Smoother |
| Durable with a longer lifespan | Not really durable with a shorter lifespan |
| Expensive | More affordable |
| Slightly noisier | Quieter |
| Less variety | More options |
| Easier to find | Harder to find |
If you are still confused with these two brands, check out this post: Gateron vs Cherry – Which Mechanical Switches Should You Choose?
The Gateron brand has built a strong reputation in the mechanical switch industry and continues to provide excellent mechanical switches at an affordable price.
Gateron mechanical switches are available to meet all of your needs, whether you need one for daily use or gaming. The variety at Gateron’s is fantastic for any circumstance.
We hope you found this post informative. Thank you for reading!
Gateron switches are the best affordable choice but still offer you a smooth typing experience. However, they are not the most durable.
If you’ve decided to purchase Gateron switches, we recommend the best places to buy them are Gateron‘s official website or Kebo store.
It entirely depends on your taste. If you prefer smooth keystrokes, then Gateron linear switches such as Yellow, Red, and Black are ideal for you. Or if you want an extra smooth typing experience with a unique feel, the Gateron ink switches will be the top choice.
The Gateron switch is ensured with a lifespan of 50 million keystrokes, equivalent to 10 years of use.
Yes. The plate, PCB, and keycap sizes of Cherry are the same as those of Gateron.
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