Gateron Aliaz vs. Zuoce Lavender
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Zuoce Lavender switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz, a tactile switch, to the Zuoce Lavender, a linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique advantages depending on your preferences. The Aliaz switch is tailored for quiet environments like the office, providing a medium-heavy weight and a substantial feel to each keystroke for those who enjoy pronounced typing feedback without noise. On the other hand, the Lavender switch stands out for its exceptional smoothness and crisp, clacky sound signature, offering a satisfying typing experience right out of the box. Each switch is categorized with distinct qualities such as 'Silky', 'Muted', 'Polished' for the Aliaz, and 'Easy-to-press', 'Clacky' for the Lavender. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Aliaz and Zuoce Lavender both feature unique housing materials in their construction, with the Aliaz utilizing polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings while the Lavender opts for POM in both parts. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for users seeking a more clear and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, POM housings in the Lavender switches offer a deeper and relatively more muted sound profile, appealing to those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Both materials have their own distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel.
In terms of aesthetics, polycarbonate's translucency makes it a popular choice for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as the clear housing allows the colorful lighting effects to shine through. This feature is unique to polycarbonate and gives the Aliaz switches a visually appealing aspect for those who enjoy customizable lighting options. In contrast, POM housings in the Lavender switches may not offer the same visual impact as polycarbonate, but they make up for it with a more subdued sound profile that may be preferable for users who prioritize a quieter typing experience without sacrificing quality.
While both housing materials bring their own advantages to the table, the split between the top and bottom housings in a switch allows users to experience a mix of qualities when typing. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, influencing the overall typing experience when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the top housing plays a role in the sound produced when releasing a key, providing a well-rounded typing experience that combines the unique characteristics of both materials. Overall, whether you prefer the crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Aliaz or the deeper sound of POM in the Lavender, both housing materials offer distinct advantages that cater to different typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, it is evident that the Aliaz has a heavier feel compared to the Lavender. The Aliaz requires an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, while the Lavender has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams. This makes the Lavender a lighter option compared to the Aliaz. The difference in weight can cater to different preferences among users, as some may prefer a lighter force for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer a heavier force for a more substantial typing experience. In this case, choosing the Aliaz will provide a heavier typing experience, while the Lavender will offer a lighter touch. Each switch offers unique benefits based on individual preferences and typing habits.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Lavender switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Aliaz switch. The Aliaz switch with its 4 mm travel distance provides a slightly deeper feeling when pressed compared to the Lavender switch. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter 3.4 mm travel distance of the Lavender switch, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the longer 4 mm travel distance of the Aliaz switch. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, catering to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
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 Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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 known for its muted sound, providing a softer and quieter typing experience compared to louder switches. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch offers a clacky sound, giving each keystroke a sharp and snappy sound that adds a sense of crispness and brightness to your typing sessions. Both switches provide distinct auditory feedback, with the Aliaz being more subdued and the Lavender being more pronounced, catering to different preferences depending on whether you prefer a quieter or more audible typing experience.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is described as silky and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience. The smooth key travel and reduced friction make each keystroke effortless and comfortable, enhancing the overall typing feel. In contrast, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch provides an easy-to-press sensation, with gentle resistance during key presses that requires minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing swift and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Both switches offer a unique tactile experience, with the Aliaz focusing on smoothness and refinement, while the Lavender emphasizes ease of typing with its low-impact feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch both bring distinct qualities to the table. The Aliaz excels in providing a quiet and substantial typing experience with its muted sound and silky, polished feel, catering to those who prefer a more refined and tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Lavender stands out for its clacky sound and easy-to-press sensation, offering a smooth and responsive typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue. Depending on your preference for sound, feel, and typing style, choosing between these two switches will provide you with similar high-quality results tailored to your specific needs and preferences in the realm of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch, consider your environment and typing preferences. If you are looking for a quiet switch with a medium-heavy weight and a substantial feel to each keystroke, the Aliaz is a great choice, especially for office settings. On the other hand, if you prioritize smoothness and a light actuation force for effortless typing, the Lavender switch stands out with its exceptional smoothness and crisp sound signature. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style.
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