Gateron Aliaz vs. Huano Grape Orange
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Huano Grape Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Aliaz and Huano Grape Orange present two distinct options that cater to different user preferences. The Aliaz switches are designed with a tactile bump and a silent operation, making them ideal for quiet workspaces where noise can be a concern. With a medium-heavy weight, they provide a satisfying response with each keystroke, appealing to those who appreciate a more pronounced feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Huano Grape Orange switches boast an ultra-light actuation force of just 40g, offering an incredibly smooth and effortless typing experience, making them a great choice for long periods of use. While both switches have their unique characteristics—one prioritizing a muted, tactile feel and the other emphasizing a lightweight, linear experience—understanding the specific nuances of each can help you make an informed choice. 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
40g
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
3.60 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Huano Grape Orange, both switches feature polycarbonate for their top housing, which contributes to their similar sound profiles. The polycarbonate material is well-known for its stiffness, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This characteristic is emphasized by the translucency of polycarbonate, making it a suitable option for users who desire RGB lighting effects. Consequently, both switches will produce a resonant sound profile that enhances the auditory experience when typing, ensuring that users who value sound quality will have a comparable experience between the two switches.
However, the materials used in the bottom housing create a distinct contrast between the two switches. The Aliaz uses a polycarbonate bottom housing, which shares the same benefits as the top housing, leading to a consistent and clear sound profile throughout the entire switch. In contrast, the Grape Orange is equipped with a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for its softer properties, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing affects the overall typing feel and sound, as it creates a divergence between the tactile feedback and auditory response of the two switches.
The implications of these differing materials highlight how sound and feel are influenced by both the top and bottom housings of the switches. The Aliaz's all-polycarbonate construction allows for a uniform clarity across both the top and bottom portions, enhancing both bottom-out and release sounds. Conversely, the Grape Orange, with its nylon bottom housing, alters the sound dynamics, providing a rounded auditory experience compared to the Aliaz. Thus, while both switches can deliver similar results in terms of the sound profile of the top housing, the interplay of material between the top and bottom significantly differentiates the user experience with each switch during actual use.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Huano Grape Orange linear switch, there is a notable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces that may influence user preference based on typing style. The Aliaz features a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, providing a more substantial tactile feedback that some users might appreciate for a satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the Grape Orange is lighter with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions without fatigue. This difference suggests that the Aliaz may appeal more to those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Grape Orange is ideal for users seeking a softer touch. Overall, the Aliaz is the heavier option, whereas the Grape Orange is lighter, giving users clear choices based on their preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Huano Grape Orange linear switch, the travel distances reveal notable differences. The Aliaz has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it a more traditional choice that provides a satisfying depth when pressed. In contrast, the Grape Orange features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, which appeals to those who prioritize quicker response times, especially in gaming scenarios. This shorter distance may feel more abrupt, which some users might prefer over the deeper travel of the Aliaz. Therefore, for a more responsive experience, the Grape Orange would be the ideal choice, while those who appreciate the sensation of pressing deeper into a key would likely opt for the Aliaz. Ultimately, the Aliaz is the longer switch, while the Grape Orange is the shorter option.
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 Huano Grape Orange has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Grape Orange for $2.79.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is notably designed for discretion, exhibiting a muted acoustic profile that significantly reduces the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboard switches. This makes it an ideal option for environments such as offices where minimizing distractions is important. The Aliaz's subdued sound allows for quiet typing sessions without drawing attention or causing disruption. While the specific sound characteristics of the Huano Grape Orange linear switch are not provided, it’s typically understood that linear switches may produce a more pronounced sound than muted tactile switches when bottoming out. However, sound can vary based on the keyboard's design and components, so both switches may offer a different auditory experience depending on the overall setup.
When it comes to feel, the Aliaz switches excel with their silky and polished typing experience. This ensures that every keystroke is smooth and refined, allowing for minimal resistance during typing. The medium-heavy weight of the Aliaz adds a palpable heft that enhances feedback, making it preferable for users who enjoy tactile cues without being too noisy. Conversely, the specific feel of the Grape Orange switches isn't detailed, but they are known for their ultra-light actuation force of 40g. This lighter touch offers an effortless typing experience, which can be incredibly comfortable during long typing sessions. While the Aliaz provides a more substantial feedback, both switches can cater to different preferences based on the desired typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch stands out for its quiet operation and smooth, polished feel, making it suited for office environments and those who appreciate tactile feedback without the noise. On the other hand, while specific attributes for the Huano Grape Orange linear switch are less defined, its notably light actuation force can appeal to individuals looking for a fast and fluid typing experience. Ultimately, both switches serve distinct purposes and cater to different typing preferences; choosing between them will depend on whether you prioritize a muted, tactile response or an ultra-light linear feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Huano Grape Orange linear switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and environment. If you work in a quieter setting or simply prefer a more muted sound, the Aliaz switches are an excellent option for you. Their heavier bottom-out force of 75 grams provides a substantial tactile feedback that may appeal to those who enjoy feeling each keystroke without generating noise. In addition, their silky and polished design ensures an incredibly smooth typing experience, perfect for both daily tasks and intense work sessions. On the other hand, if you prioritize a light and effortless typing experience, particularly over long hours, the Grape Orange switches may be right up your alley. With a significantly lower bottom-out force of 50 grams, they allow for quick and fluid keystrokes, making them ideal for users who prefer a fast-paced workflow or casual gaming without the heaviness of the Aliaz. Ultimately, consider your typing style, work environment, and whether you value feedback or a lighter touch while making your selection.
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