Gateron Aliaz vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Aliaz, a tactile switch, and the Cherry MX Red, a linear switch. The Aliaz switch is tailored for quiet environments like the office, providing a medium-heavy weight and a more pronounced typing feedback without the noise. On the other hand, the MX Red switch by Cherry offers a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, giving a robust typing experience with a satisfying auditory depth. While the Aliaz switch is categorized as 'Silky', 'Muted', 'Polished', the MX Red switch is classified as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured'. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing needs, 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Cherry MX Red switches, it is evident that both switches utilize different materials for their top housing. The Aliaz switch features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the MX Red switch uses a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The choice between the two would depend on the user's preference for sound characteristics, with the Aliaz offering a more resonant and clear tone and the Cherry MX Red providing a more muffled and round sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing of the switches, the Gateron Aliaz continues to employ polycarbonate material, while the Cherry MX Red uses nylon for its bottom housing. Similar to the top housing, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Aliaz contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, whereas the nylon bottom housing of the Cherry MX Red produces a deeper and fuller sound. The differences in housing materials between the two switches showcase how various plastics can influence the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Cherry MX Red switches differ, they both offer unique sound profiles based on the use of polycarbonate and nylon plastics. The choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound characteristics, with the Aliaz providing a sharper and clearer tone and the Cherry MX Red offering a deeper and fuller sound. Regardless of the differences in materials, both switches are designed to enhance the overall typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
Comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, the actuation force of the Aliaz is heavier at 60 grams compared to the lighter 45 grams required for the MX Red. The bottom out force of the Aliaz is also heavier at 75 grams, while the bottom out force of the MX Red is unknown. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Aliaz due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, providing a more pronounced push feel. On the other hand, individuals looking for a lighter typing experience for extended periods may opt for the MX Red with its lower actuation force. Ultimately, the weight of the force required should be considered based on personal preference and intended usage, as lighter switches are ideal for long typing or gaming sessions, while heavier switches provide a more solid and resistant typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. The travel distance of a switch is crucial as it determines how much movement is required to actuate a key. With both switches having the same travel distance, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of keypress depth. This means that whether you choose the Gateron Aliaz or the Cherry MX Red, you can expect a consistent level of key travel for a comfortable typing or gaming 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 Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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 such as offices where noise levels need to be minimized. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red switch produces a thocky and low-pitched sound, providing a deeper and more satisfying auditory feedback. Depending on personal preference, the Aliaz switch will provide a softer and quieter sound, while the MX Red switch will offer a more robust and bass-heavy tone.
In terms of feel, the Aliaz switch is known for its silky and polished typing experience, offering smooth key presses with minimal resistance. This results in an exceptionally smooth and refined feel to each keystroke. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red switch is described as textured, meaning it may have noticeable friction when pressed. Some users prefer this slight texture for a more tactile feel, while others may prefer the smoother experience offered by the Aliaz switch.
Overall, if you are looking for a quieter typing experience with a medium-heavy weight and smooth keystrokes, the Gateron Aliaz switch will be a great choice. However, if you prefer a deeper sound profile with a slightly heftier feel and some tactile feedback, the Cherry MX Red switch may be the better option. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so you can expect similar levels of quality and reliability from both options.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, consider the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard. If you value a quiet typing experience and prefer a medium-heavy key feel, the Aliaz switches are a great choice, especially for office settings or shared spaces. On the other hand, if you enjoy a slightly heftier key feel and a deeper, more robust sound profile while typing, the MX Red switches may be more to your liking. Ultimately, your preference for typing feedback and noise level will guide you in selecting the ideal switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Mentioned in this article
