Gateron Aliaz vs. TKC Kiwi
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the TKC Kiwi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Aliaz and the TKC Kiwi mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Aliaz switch is ideal for quiet environments such as offices, as it boasts a silent design and a medium-heavy weight that provides a satisfyingly substantial feel with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Kiwi switch is designed to enhance the typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, delivering a snappy sound profile for an immersive experience. While the Aliaz switch is known for its 'Silky', 'Muted', and 'Polished' qualities, the Kiwi switch is categorized as 'Stepped', 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Accented', and 'Polished'. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal 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
43g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the TKC Kiwi switches both have unique properties that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Aliaz's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound compared to the Kiwi's UHWMPE top housing, which provides a bright and resonant sound when typing. Both materials are relatively stiff, which helps in creating a clear and resonant sound profile, but they result in different sound signatures due to their unique characteristics. Additionally, the Aliaz's polycarbonate bottom housing shares similar qualities with its top housing, while the Kiwi's UHWMPE bottom housing also contributes to the overall sound profile of the switch with its bright and resonant clacks.
In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Aliaz is more likely to be used with RGB lighting due to its translucency, while the UHWMPE top housing of the Kiwi provides a unique look and feel to the switch. The use of different materials for the top and bottom housings of each switch allows for a combination of qualities to be experienced when typing. The impact of the bottom housing is felt when pressing down on the switch, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Overall, both switches offer distinct sound profiles and aesthetics based on their housing materials.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Aliaz and the TKC Kiwi switches have different housing materials for their top and bottom housings, they both offer unique sound profiles and aesthetics. The polycarbonate top and bottom housing of the Aliaz create a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, complemented by the UHWMPE top and bottom housing of the Kiwi, which provides a bright and resonant sound when typing. The split between the qualities of the top and bottom housings allows for a combination of sound experiences when using these switches. Whether you prefer the crisp sound of the Aliaz or the bright clacks of the Kiwi, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their distinct housing materials.
Weight
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Aliaz requires 75 grams, making it heavier than the Kiwi which needs 67 grams. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Kiwi would be the better option as it has both a lighter actuation and bottom out force. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel, the Aliaz would be the preferred choice. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, so it ultimately depends on individual preference for typing feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users will experience a consistent travel distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance allows for a consistent typing experience between the two switches, as users will get similar results in terms of key press feedback and actuation feel. Overall, both switches offer a comparable typing experience in terms of travel distance, making them ideal choices for those looking for a consistent and tactile typing experience.
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 TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 per 10 switches.
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 switch offers a muted typing experience, perfect for quiet environments like offices. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi switch provides a low-pitched and neutral sound profile that adds a satisfyingly snappy element to your typing sessions. Both switches excel in providing a pleasant audible feedback without being too loud, giving you a pleasant typing experience without disturbing those around you.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Aliaz switch offers a silky and polished typing experience, providing a smooth and refined feel to each keystroke. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi switch offers a stepped and accented tactile feel, providing a medium-strong bump at the top of each key press without being too overwhelming. Both switches offer a polished typing experience, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel for effortless typing sessions.
Overall, both the Gateron Aliaz and TKC Kiwi switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Aliaz provides a medium-heavy weight with a quiet and silky typing experience, while the Kiwi offers a medium-strong bump with a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. Depending on whether you prioritize a more pronounced typing feedback with a muted sound or a snappy tactile feel with a bass-heavy tone, both switches deliver excellent performance. Ultimately, both switches will provide a satisfying typing experience, ensuring you get quality results regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, consider the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard. If you prioritize a quiet typing experience for an office setting, the Aliaz switches with their substantial feel and muted sound profile would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you're looking for a more immersive and snappy typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump and a low-pitched, neutral sound profile, the Kiwi switches would be more suitable. Ultimately, your preference for the weight, sound, and feel of the switches will determine which one is the best fit for you.
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