If you spend long hours at your workspace, having a high-quality mechanical keyboard can improve productivity and typing experience. Among the many brands available, Gateron switches have gained popularity due to their silky smoothness, affordability, and customizability. Unlike rubber dome keyboards, Gateron switches offer a customizing experience tailored to different needs.
Whether for success in gaming or professional work, these switches provide a more enjoyable typing feel than mass-produced alternatives. Many tech influencers like Marques Brownlee and media outlets such as CNN, Cult of Mac, and The Next Web have praised Gateron for its performance and reliability. If you’re looking to buy a switch that fits your needs, Gateron has a variety of options to explore.
The Ultimate Gateron Mechanical Switch Guide
What Makes Gateron Switches Unique?
Gateron switches are known for their smoothness, affordability, and superior performance. Unlike some competitors like Cherry MX, Gateron switches are more suitable for those who prioritize fluid keystrokes. Their hot-swappable nature makes them easy to install and change without soldering. Many Gateron switches are SMD-LED compatible, meaning they support RGB lighting for an aesthetically pleasing keyboard setup. Additionally, they have a lifespan of over 50 million keystrokes, ensuring long-term durability. Their reliability and customization options make them a top choice for enthusiasts, professionals, and gamers alike.
If you’re interested in learning about other mechanical switch brands, check out this guide on Cherry MX Keyboards.
The Detailed Comparison of Gateron Switches
Choosing the right switch depends on your pressing preferences, feeling while typing, and workspace environment. Each switch category offers a distinct sound, structure, and actuation force, which makes a big difference in different scenarios. A detailed comparison helps make the right judgment based on your needs and typing experience.
Gateron Red Switch
The Gateron Red switch is a commonly used linear switch with a quiet sound profile. It has a moderate pressure and requires an actuation force of 45g, making it ideal for prolonged typing without feeling tired. The travel distance is 2mm, allowing for a soft rebound and smooth pressing. Whether for daily work, games, or other scenarios, the Gateron Red is a suitable option for many people.
Gamers prefer Gateron Red because of its low actuation force, which allows for rapid keystrokes with minimal finger fatigue. Additionally, its whisper-quiet nature makes it a great choice for shared workspaces where loud clicks could be distracting. If you need a smooth and efficient option for all scenes, this is an excellent pick.
If you’re unsure whether linear switches are for you, check out our comparison between Mechanical vs. Membrane Keyboards.
Gateron Blue Switch
For those who prefer a clicky switch, the Gateron Blue offers a satisfying touch and audible feedback. With an actuation force of 60g and a travel distance of 2mm, this mechanical switch is perfect for typing for long periods without feeling tired. However, if you work in a shared environment, consider the louder sound before choosing this option.
This switch is popular among typists who enjoy a retro typewriter feel. However, its audible click can be distracting in professional settings. If you work in an office environment, you might want to consider a quieter alternative.
If you love clicky switches, you might also want to explore Razer Green Switches, which offer a similar experience.
Gateron Brown Switch
The Gateron Brown strikes a balance between Gateron Red and Blue by offering a smooth, tactile bump without being too loud. The actuation force is 55g, with a travel distance of 2mm, making it suitable for typing, games, and daily work. The medium sound level ensures it doesn’t disturb those around you while still providing a satisfying feel.
Many professionals and writers prefer Gateron Brown because of its balanced response. It provides tactile feedback without the intensity of a clicky switch, making it a great consideration for those who type for long periods.
If you want to explore more about mechanical switch advantages, check out Advantages of Using Mechanical Switches.
Gateron White Switch
For those who prefer a lightest touch, the Gateron White is the best option. It has an actuation force of 35g and a smooth, linear feel. Due to its effortless keystroke, it’s easy to mistakenly trigger keys. With a low sound profile, this switch is great for typing in quiet scenes and daily work.
Its rapid actuation makes it a solid choice for users who need speed and efficiency. However, its low resistance might not be ideal for those who prefer a stronger key press.
Gateron Yellow Switch
A recent favorite, the Gateron Yellow has a slightly bigger actuation force than Gateron Red, requiring 50g. It provides a rigid, linear feel with a fast rebound, making it great for rapid typing. With a relatively quiet sound, it is a popular option for those who need a moderate yet smooth experience.
Its balanced resistance makes it a great choice for those looking for smoothness without excessive softness.
Gateron Black Switch
If you prefer strong feedback, the Gateron Black is a mass-produced option with a stiff, smooth press. With an actuation force of 60g, it is ideal for those who prefer a harder press to avoid wrong key triggers. This mechanical switch is well-suited for gaming, typing, and daily work with a medium sound profile.
Gamers appreciate Gateron Black for its precision, resistance, and accuracy, making it a solid option for competitive gameplay.
Gateron Green Switch
An upgraded version of the Gateron Blue, the Gateron Green has an actuation force of 80g, making it stronger with a harder rebound. It provides an intense retro typewriter feel with a clicky sound, making it ideal for those who love strong feedback. Recommended for typists who enjoy the intensity of traditional mechanical keyboards.
Its higher intensity requires more force, so it may not be ideal for prolonged typing sessions.
Prople Also Asked About Gateron Switches
Are Gateron switches better than Cherry MX?
Gateron switches are known for their silky smoothness and affordability, whereas Cherry MX switches are praised for their durability and consistency. The choice depends on personal preference.
Can I use Gateron switches on any keyboard?
Gateron switches are hot-swappable and MX-compatible, meaning they can fit most mechanical keyboards that support hot-swappable sockets.
Which Gateron switch is best for gaming?
The Gateron Red, Yellow, and Optical switches are great for gaming due to their linear, fast actuation, and smooth keystrokes.
How long do Gateron switches last?
Gateron switches have a lifespan of over 50 million keystrokes, ensuring they remain reliable over extended periods of use.
Where can I buy Gateron switches?
You can buy Gateron switches from online retailers such as Amazon, MechanicalKeyboards.com, KBDfans, and AliExpress.
Final Thoughts
Each Gateron switch has its own difference, catering to different preferences. If you’re unsure which to pick, consider using a switch tester before making a purchase. With so many customized mechanical keyboard options available, the joy of finding the most suitable switch for your needs is unmatched.
If you’re unsure which to pick, consider using a switch tester before making a purchase. With so many customized mechanical keyboard options available, the joy of finding the most suitable switch for your needs is unmatched.
For more information about different types of keyboards, check out our Types of Computer Keyboards Guide.