Gateron Aliaz vs. Cherry MX Purple RGB
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular choices are the Gateron Aliaz and the Cherry MX Purple RGB, both of which are tactile switches that cater to different preferences and environments. The Gateron Aliaz is designed with quiet in mind, making it particularly suitable for office settings where noise reduction is essential. With its medium-heavy weight, it provides a satisfying feel in each keystroke without the disruptive sound often associated with mechanical switches. This makes the Aliaz ideal for users who appreciate a more muted, polished typing experience while still enjoying tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch offers a refined tactile experience characterized by a short, medium-strength bump, developed in collaboration with keyboard enthusiasts, making it a compelling option for those who seek a more engaging and responsive typing sensation. While both switches cater to tactile lovers, their distinct characteristics—quiet operation versus a more pronounced tactile feedback—set them apart. 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
45g
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 Purple RGB switches showcase distinct differences in their housing materials, which significantly influence their sound profiles and tactile feedback. The Aliaz utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, notable for its stiffness, which generates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. This crispness is particularly suitable for gaming and typing experiences that require precision. Conversely, the MX Purple RGB features a nylon top housing that yields a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound waves more effectively than polycarbonate, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. Thus, while the Aliaz offers clarity and resonance, the Cherry MX Purple RGB delivers a richer and more subdued sound.
Examining the bottom housings further accentuates the contrast between these two switches. The Gateron Aliaz employs polycarbonate for its bottom housing, mirroring the sharper sound attributes of its top section. The result is a consistent sound profile characterized by a clear resonance throughout the switch interaction, enhancing the overall typing experience. Meanwhile, the Cherry MX Purple RGB’s bottom housing is made of nylon, which emphasizes the softer sound qualities typically associated with that material. When pressing the switch, users experience the characteristic deeper sound that nylon provides, which can be more satisfying for those who prefer a fuller auditory feedback during key presses.
Ultimately, the combined effects of the materials used in both the top and bottom housings dictate the overall performance and feel of these switches. In the case of the Gateron Aliaz, the use of polycarbonate in both sections ensures a cohesive sound experience that emphasizes clarity, making it ideal for environments where precision sound is preferred. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB, with its nylon housings, presents a more immersive sound profile that may appeal to users who value a richer auditory experience. Despite the differences, users seeking RGB lighting effects will find that the translucency of both switches allows for vibrant lighting without significant compromise to performance; this ensures parts of their unique auditory identities will still manifest through RGB illumination, appealing to aesthetic preferences alongside functional design.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation forces. The Aliaz features a heavier actuation force of 60 grams, while the MX Purple RGB has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. This distinction makes the Aliaz preferable for users who favor a more substantial typing experience, while those who prefer a lighter touch might resonate more with the MX Purple RGB. Additionally, the Aliaz's bottom out force stands at 75 grams, indicating a significant resistance when bottoming out, further contributing to its heavier feel. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB lacks a specified bottom out force, leaving it unclear how it compares in terms of final resistance. Therefore, users seeking extended typing comfort might lean towards the lighter MX Purple RGB, while those looking for a firmer push might opt for the Aliaz.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch both feature the same travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that users can expect a similar keypress experience in terms of depth. This equivalence in travel distance suggests that both switches will provide a comparable tactile feedback and actuation point, making them suitable options for those who value a definitive tactile response in their typing or gaming activities. Since the travel distance is identical, users can anticipate a similar feel and performance when using either switch, allowing for a seamless transition between the two if desired.
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 Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Aliaz switches are particularly well-suited for quiet environments, such as offices, due to their muted design. They produce a softer, more subdued noise that minimizes the typical clattering associated with mechanical keyboards, making them an excellent choice for those who prefer discretion in their typing. On the other hand, the sound profile of Cherry MX Purple RGB switches is not detailed in the provided information, leaving their acoustic characteristics unknown. However, factors like the choice of keyboard build and keycaps will also significantly influence the sound produced.
In terms of feel, the Aliaz switch excels with its silky and polished characteristics, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience. Their medium-heavy weight adds to the sense of precision and confirms a solid tactile feedback that typing enthusiasts appreciate. This smoothness minimizes resistance during key presses and releases, ensuring a refined experience overall. In contrast, the feel of the Cherry MX Purple RGB is not specified, which means we can't directly compare the tactile sensations between these two switches.
In summary, while the Gateron Aliaz switches offer a distinct advantage in sound and a smooth, polished feel, the Cherry MX Purple RGB's tactile characteristics remain undefined in this context. If you're looking for a switch that delivers a quiet, refined typing experience with noticeable tactile feedback, the Aliaz is a strong contender. The MX Purple may share some qualities but without specific details, it's difficult to ascertain how closely they align in terms of feel and sound. Therefore, the final choice will depend on personal preference and specific use cases, potentially leading to similar typing outcomes depending on the scenario.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and specific use case. If you find yourself working in a quiet office environment or prefer a typing experience that minimizes noise, the Gateron Aliaz is an excellent option. Its heavier bottom-out force of 75 grams provides robust tactile feedback while maintaining a muted sound profile, ideal for uninterrupted work. Additionally, the silky and polished feel of the Aliaz switches adds a layer of smoothness to your typing, reducing any resistance or friction during keystrokes. On the other hand, if you desire a more upbeat typing experience with a refined tactile bump, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches may be more suited to your needs. Developed in collaboration with keyboard enthusiasts, these switches offer a medium-strength tactile response without the additional noise, making them versatile for both gaming and casual typing. In essence, choose the Aliaz for a quieter, heavy-duty experience and the MX Purple for a lively, tactile feel that enhances your overall typing enjoyment.
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