Gateron Aliaz vs. TTC Bluish White
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the TTC Bluish White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz and the TTC Bluish White mechanical keyboard switches, we can see that both switches offer unique features catering to different preferences. The Aliaz switch is ideal for quiet environments such as offices, thanks to its silent design and medium-heavy weight which provides a substantial feel with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Bluish White switch offers a satisfyingly poppy typing experience with its snappy sound profile. The Aliaz switch is categorized as 'Silky', 'Muted', and 'Polished', while the Bluish White switch is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Stepped', 'Subtle', 'Polished', and 'Low-pitched'. Both switches have their advantages depending on the user's preference, 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
60g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and TTC Bluish White switches both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharp, high-pitched sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, creating a clear and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the Aliaz differs from the Bluish White in that it also has a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Bluish White features a nylon bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of the Bluish White offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing of the Aliaz.
While both the Gateron Aliaz and TTC Bluish White switches have polycarbonate top housing, they differ in their bottom housing materials. The use of nylon in the Bluish White's bottom housing creates a softer sound profile that absorbs more noise, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. In contrast, the Aliaz's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharp and crisp sound profile associated with stiffer plastics. This distinction in bottom housing materials impacts the overall sound and feel of the switches, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key.
In summary, the Gateron Aliaz and TTC Bluish White switches showcase the impact of housing materials on sound profiles. Both switches provide a sharper, higher-pitched sound due to their polycarbonate top housing, but they differ in their bottom housing materials. The Aliaz's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the clear and resonant sound profile, while the Bluish White's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound profile and feel when typing.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch to the TTC Bluish White tactile switch, it is evident that the Aliaz requires a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the lighter 42 grams needed for the Bluish White. Similarly, the Aliaz has a heavier bottom out force of 75 grams, whereas the Bluish White has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams. The difference in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches showcases a clear distinction in the typing experience they provide. Those who prefer a lighter typing feel may opt for the TTC Bluish White, which allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Gateron Aliaz for its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience, with lighter forces leading to a more effortless typing experience and heavier forces offering a more tactile and substantial feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Bluish White tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Aliaz offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy a deeper keypress. On the other hand, the Bluish White has a slightly shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers or individuals seeking faster response times. Both switches offer a good balance between depth and responsiveness, so no matter which one you choose, you can expect a similar typing experience with minor differences in travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.63.
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 Gateron Aliaz offers a muted typing experience, which is softer and quieter compared to regular switches, making it a great option for noise-sensitive environments like offices. On the other hand, the TTC Bluish White provides a low-pitched sound profile with a bass-heavy and mellow tone, giving a satisfyingly poppy typing experience. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Aliaz offering a quieter experience and the Bluish White delivering a snappier sound.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Aliaz is described as silky and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience. These switches minimize resistance and enhance overall smoothness, resulting in a comfortable typing feel. On the other hand, the TTC Bluish White is described as buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished. These switches offer a gentle and uniform typing sensation with a subtle resistance, suitable for shared spaces and providing a smooth key travel experience. Both switches offer distinct feelings that cater to a variety of typing preferences, with the Aliaz offering a polished and silky typing experience and the Bluish White providing a buttery and gentle sensation.
Overall, the Gateron Aliaz and TTC Bluish White tactile switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aliaz is tailored for quiet environments with its muted sound profile and smooth typing experience, while the Bluish White provides a poppy sound and a buttery typing sensation. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer different but equally satisfying typing experiences. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on whether you prioritize a quieter typing experience with a medium-heavy weight (Aliaz) or a more poppy sound with a buttery feel (Bluish White).
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch or the TTC Bluish White tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your individual preferences and typing environment. If you prefer a heavier key feel and a quieter typing experience ideal for office settings, the Aliaz switches with their medium-heavy weight and muted sound profile may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter key feel and a more poppy typing experience with low-pitched sound characteristics, the Bluish White switches provide a satisfyingly buttery and mild typing sensation. Consider your desired key weight, typing sound preferences, and tactile feedback when making your decision between these two tactile switches. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Aliaz and the TTC Bluish White switches will depend on what typing experience you are looking for.
Mentioned in this article
