Gateron Aliaz vs. Cherry MX Orange
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Cherry MX Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Aliaz and Cherry MX Orange stand out as two distinct options tailored to different typing experiences. The Aliaz switches are celebrated for their silent operation, making them ideal for quiet environments like offices. Their medium-heavy weight offers a satisfying keystroke feel, combining tactile feedback with minimal noise—a great choice for users who appreciate a pronounced yet discreet typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange switches bring a different flavor to the table; they are linear switches that have been reissued with enhancements, balancing the original characteristics with modern performance enhancements. This type of switch caters to users who prefer a smooth keystroke without the tactile bump, suitable for fast typing or gaming scenarios. While both switches offer unique benefits—whether it’s the muted yet tactile sensation of the Aliaz or the smooth, uninterrupted flow of the MX Orange—there are nuances in your typing style and environment that might influence your choice. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
Nylon
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
The Gateron Aliaz and Cherry MX Orange switches differ considerably in their housing materials, which leads to distinct acoustic profiles and feel during typing. The Aliaz features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffness and ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This results in a crisp and resonant auditory experience that many typists appreciate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for switches designed for RGB lighting, allowing light to pass through and create vibrant effects. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange utilizes nylon for its top housing, yielding a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer characteristics of nylon absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder auditory experience that can cater to those who prefer a quieter typing environment.
The differences extend to the bottom housings of each switch as well. Both the Aliaz and the MX Orange feature polycarbonate and nylon, respectively, for their bottom housings as well. The Aliaz's polycarbonate bottom housing further enhances the switch's sharp sound profile, while its overall stiffness maintains that clear resonance. On the other hand, the MX Orange's nylon bottom housing continues to contribute to its fuller sound, emphasizing a more subdued auditory response. As a result, the overall impact of sound and feel during typing can be quite distinct between the two switches, with the Aliaz leaning towards crispness and clarity, while the MX Orange provides a softer, more muted experience.
Notably, if the top and bottom housings are different in a given switch, the characteristics from each housing material will blend to create a unique overall typing experience. In the case of the Aliaz, the stiffness of the polycarbonate will dominate the sound profile when releasing a key, while the softer nylon's characteristics will influence the typing feel and sound when bottoming out for the Cherry MX Orange. This interplay of materials ensures that each switch provides a different experience based on the material properties, making them suited for different types of users. If a user is looking for more clarity and a sharper sound, the Aliaz would be preferable. Conversely, those who prioritize a softer, quieter typing experience may lean towards the Cherry MX Orange.
Weight
The comparison between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch reveals distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gateron Aliaz has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, making it a heavier switch overall. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange requires a slightly lighter actuation force of 55 grams; however, its bottom out force remains unknown, preventing a direct comparison. This indicates that users of the Aliaz might experience a more substantial tactile feedback due to its higher forces, which is preferred by those who enjoy a stronger push feel. Conversely, the lighter actuation force of the MX Orange could cater to users favoring prolonged typing sessions without as much strain. In summary, while the Gateron Aliaz is heavier and offers more resistance, the Cherry MX Orange's lighter actuation force suggests a potentially different typing experience, though its bottom out characteristics are yet to be defined.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, indicating that they offer the same key travel from the top to the bottom. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable feel and responsiveness when pressing down on the keys for both switches. Since the travel distances are equal, those looking to switch between these two options may find similar typing experiences in terms of how far the keys depress.
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 Cherry MX Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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 designed for quiet environments, producing a muted sound profile that minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. This makes them an excellent choice for office settings or shared spaces where noise can be a distraction. On the other hand, the sound characteristics of the Cherry MX Orange switch are less defined, but they are known to produce a sound that may be somewhere between tactile and linear. Since the specific auditory qualities of the MX Orange are not detailed, one can presume that while it may not be as subdued as the Aliaz, it should still deliver a more conservative sound compared to other louder mechanical switches.
When considering the feel, the Aliaz switch stands out with its silky and polished characteristics, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience. The design minimizes resistance during key presses and releases, resulting in a seamless tactile feedback that many typists appreciate. The polished finish of the Aliaz enhances this smoothness, contributing to reduced friction and an elegant typing feel. In contrast, the feel of the MX Orange switches is not specifically described, leaving room for interpretation. However, with their historical significance and enhancements over the original design, one could anticipate a satisfying typing experience, though it may not rival the smoothness of the Aliaz.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch excels in producing muted sounds and offers a refined, glossy typing experience, the Cherry MX Orange linear switch provides a less defined auditory presence and could potentially offer a solid feel based on its historical pedigree. If you're seeking a quiet and smooth experience, the Aliaz is likely the better choice. However, if you prefer the characteristics associated with Cherry MX switches, the MX Orange would still provide a commendable alternative. Ultimately, each switch offers its unique appeal, and your choice may come down to personal preference in sound and typing feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Gateron Aliaz tactile switches and Cherry MX Orange linear switches largely depends on your intended use and personal preferences. If you work in a quiet environment or if you're concerned about disturbing others while you type, the Gateron Aliaz switches would be ideal due to their muted sound profile and heavy bottom-out force. Their tactile feedback and heavier actuation can enhance your typing experience, especially if you appreciate a substantial feel with a satisfying response. On the other hand, if you're looking for a smoother experience with continuous key travel, the Cherry MX Orange might suit you better. Designed with a focus on providing a refined linear feel, they can facilitate faster typing for gaming or time-sensitive tasks without the tactile bump that Aliaz offers. Ultimately, consider your environment and how you intend to use your keyboard; if you value sound dampening and tactile feedback, go for the Aliaz, but if you prefer smoothness and speed, the MX Orange would be the better choice.
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