Gateron Aliaz vs. Jwick Ginger Milk
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Jwick Ginger Milk switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, a common debate arises between tactile switches like the Gateron Aliaz and linear switches like the Jwick Ginger Milk. The Aliaz switches are ideal for quiet environments such as office settings, offering a medium-heavy weight that provides a substantial feel to each keystroke. This makes them a great choice for those who prefer a more pronounced typing feedback without the accompanying noise. On the other hand, the Jwick Ginger Milk switches are known for their soft and pastel appearance, reflecting the silky smooth and approachable push feel they provide. With a muted, snappy sound profile, these switches offer a different typing experience altogether. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Aliaz and Jwick Ginger Milk switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those who prefer a precise typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for RGB lighting, allowing for a visually appealing keyboard setup. However, while both switches share this feature, it is important to note that the top housing material can have a significant impact on the overall sound and feel of the switch.
On the other hand, the Gateron Aliaz features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which further enhances the crisp and sharp sound profile of the switch. In contrast, the Jwick Ginger Milk utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This difference in bottom housing material may result in a noticeable variation in the sound and feel of typing on the two switches. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, influencing the overall typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Aliaz and Jwick Ginger Milk switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and typing feel. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing, the difference in bottom housing material - polycarbonate for the Aliaz and nylon for the Ginger Milk - can lead to distinct typing experiences. Whether you prefer a sharp and clear sound profile or a deeper and fuller sound, understanding the impact of housing materials on switch performance is crucial in selecting the right switch for your needs.
Weight
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch. The Aliaz requires 60 grams of force to actuate and 75 grams to bottom out, making it a heavier option overall. In contrast, the Ginger Milk needs 50 grams to actuate and 63.5 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter option in terms of force required. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Ginger Milk switch, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing. However, for users who prefer a more substantial feel and a stronger push when typing, the Gateron Aliaz switch would be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it slightly longer than the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. While the Aliaz offers a more traditional travel distance, the Ginger Milk provides a slightly shorter distance, which may appeal to those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance of the Ginger Milk to be too abrupt, while others may appreciate the quicker actuation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired responsiveness.
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 Jwick Ginger Milk has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ginger Milk for $4.25.
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
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is known for its muted sound profile, creating a softer and quieter typing experience suitable for quiet environments like the office. In contrast, the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch is characterized by a more neutral sound, making it versatile for various settings and purposes. The Aliaz offers a silky and polished feel, providing a smooth and refined typing sensation with reduced friction. On the other hand, the Ginger Milk switch is described as buttery, offering a fluid and effortless keystroke experience. Overall, while the Aliaz emphasizes a substantial feel and muted sound, the Ginger Milk focuses on a silky smooth feel and neutral sound. Depending on your preference for typing experience and noise level, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different user needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and your specific needs. If you are looking for a switch that is tailored for quiet environments, offers a medium-heavy weight for a substantial typing feel, and provides a muted sound profile, then the Aliaz may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a soft and pastel switch with a silky smooth and approachable push feel, along with a buttery typing sensation and a neutral sound profile, then the Ginger Milk could be the better option. Consider your preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force when making your decision between these two switches.
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