Gateron Aliaz vs. Gateron Glory Red

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Aliaz and the Gateron Glory Red present two distinct options tailored to different typing preferences. The Aliaz switch is celebrated for its quiet operation, making it an ideal choice for office environments where minimal sound is desired. With a medium-heavy weight and a tactile bump, it provides a satisfying feedback for typists who appreciate a bit of resistance without the accompanying noise. In contrast, the Gateron Glory Red switch offers a smooth and linear keystroke, perfect for gamers and fast typists seeking a seamless experience with less tactile obstruction. While the Aliaz excels in muted, polished performance suited to focused work, the Glory Red caters to those who enjoy a soft touch and an overall enjoyable travel distance when typing at speed. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Aliaz Tactile

Gateron Glory Red Linear

$8.00

$5.50 per 10

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron Aliaz and Gateron Glory Red switches showcase contrasting housing materials that significantly influence their sound profiles and overall typing experiences. The Aliaz features a top housing made of polycarbonate, while the Glory Red opts for nylon. Polycarbonate is noted for its stiffness, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This quality allows the Aliaz to resonate sound more clearly. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Glory Red provides a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer material, which absorbs more sound and results in a duller, rounder auditory experience. Consequently, users can expect distinct sound characteristics when typing on each switch, highlighting the fundamental influence of housing materials.

Moreover, the bottom housing of both switches reinforces these differing sound profiles. The Aliaz features a polycarbonate bottom housing, mirroring the sound clarity established by its top housing material, creating a cohesive auditory experience that emphasizes a bright and resonant feel. On the other hand, the Glory Red uses a nylon bottom housing, further deepening the sound profile it provides, making key presses feel softer and more muted. This split between the housing materials means that each switch delivers a unique feel and sound based on whether the top or bottom housing is being engaged, with the bottom housing notably affecting the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback.

Additionally, if the switches were to incorporate the same housing material for both the top and bottom, the similar traits would converge for a consistent typing experience. For example, a switch with all-polycarbonate housing would likely produce a clear and bright sound profile from both the top and bottom, maximizing articulation and resonance. Conversely, an all-nylon switch would amplify the deep and cushioned sound, providing a fuller auditory feedback throughout the typing experience. In summary, the differing housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and Glory Red switches each contribute uniquely to their overall sound and feel, but they also emphasize the significance of housing material composition in mechanical switches.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Gateron Glory Red linear switch, we see a notable difference in their actuation forces. The Aliaz switch has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, making it a heavier option that provides a substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Glory Red switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, which caters to those who prefer a softer touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out force for the Glory Red switch is unknown, leaving uncertainty about its complete pressing experience. Overall, if a typist values a lighter, more responsive feel, the Glory Red would be the preferable choice, while those who enjoy a heavier, tactile feedback should opt for the Aliaz switch.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Gateron Glory Red linear switch, the Aliaz features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Glory Red measures at a shorter 3.6 mm. This difference indicates that the Aliaz provides a deeper key press, which may be preferred by users who enjoy a more substantial tactile feedback when typing. Conversely, the shorter 3.6 mm travel distance of the Glory Red switch aligns with the contemporary trend towards faster response times, making it more appealing for gamers who seek quick actuation. Therefore, if you value a hearty depth in your keystrokes, the Aliaz with its longer travel distance is the better choice, whereas the Glory Red offers a snappier experience due to its shorter travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profiles of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Gateron Glory Red linear switch, the Aliaz is notably designed for quieter environments, producing a muted sound that minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards. This makes it particularly suited for office use or shared spaces where noise levels are a consideration. In contrast, the Glory Red switches do not have a specified sound profile, but linear switches typically produce less pronounced auditory feedback compared to tactile switches. It's important to note that sound can also vary based on the keyboard's construction, including the PCB, cases, and keycap materials, so results may differ across setups.

In terms of feel, the Aliaz switch excels with its silky and polished characteristics, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience that reduces friction and minimizes resistance during keystrokes. This feature results in an effortlessly responsive typing motion that many users find desirable. The medium-heavy weight of the Aliaz enhances the overall typing feedback, offering a satisfying tactile sensation with each key press. On the other hand, the feel of the Glory Red, while not explicitly described, is generally known among linear switches to provide a smooth keystroke without the added tactile bump that the Aliaz offers. Users may find the lighter weight of the Glory Red provides a different typing sensation that some prefer for fast-paced typing or gaming.

In conclusion, both the Gateron Aliaz and the Gateron Glory Red switches cater to distinct typing preferences. The Aliaz provides a muted sound and a tactile experience that is polished and sleek, ideal for those in quieter environments who desire tactile feedback. In contrast, the Glory Red, with its linear design, offers a lightweight and smooth experience, although its specific qualities remain less defined. Choosing between these two will largely depend on whether you prioritize sound dampening and pronounced feedback or a smoother, lighter keystroke feel.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Gateron Glory Red linear switch, your specific needs and preferences will guide your decision. If you find yourself typing in quieter environments, such as an office or shared workspace, the Aliaz should be your go-to option. Its muted sound profile and medium-heavy actuation force of 75 grams provide not only a respectable tactile feedback but also a more discreet typing experience, making it suitable for prolonged use without disturbing those around you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth, effortless keystroke and enjoy a lighter touch, the Glory Red linear switch might be the better fit. While it lacks the explicit actuation force figure, its lighter feel combined with the absence of tactile feedback can cater to those who prefer a more fluid typing experience, ideal for gaming or fast-paced typing. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your environment and the type of interaction you desire from your keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Aliaz Tactile

$8.00

$5.50 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Glory Red Linear

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

Learn more