Gateron Aliaz vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch to the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, it becomes apparent that each offers unique advantages for different preferences. The Aliaz switch is perfect for those looking for a quiet typing experience, making it ideal for office environments. With a medium-heavy weight and a substantial feel to each keystroke, it provides a pronounced typing feedback without the noise, appealing to users who prefer a more tactile response. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch stands out for its innovative design, offering a whisper-quiet topping-out sound and a clacky bottom-out sound. Its silky smooth type feel and a range of characteristics like a subdued, neutral, mild, snappy, buttery, and polished make it an attractive option for those seeking a different linear experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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 terms of housing materials, both the Gateron Aliaz and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear feature polycarbonate top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, resulting in clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, while the Aliaz also has a polycarbonate bottom housing, the Jwick uses a nylon bottom housing instead. This difference in bottom housing material can affect the sound profile, with nylon absorbing more sound and creating a deeper and fuller sound compared to polycarbonate.
When it comes to typing on switches with polycarbonate top housings, both the Aliaz and Semi-Silent Linear will provide a similar sound experience. The stiffness of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a distinct sound profile that is sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper. This is especially beneficial for users looking for a more clear and resonant typing experience. However, the choice of bottom housing material differs between the two switches - with the Aliaz utilizing a polycarbonate bottom housing and the Jwick incorporating a nylon bottom housing. This contrast in materials can influence the overall sound and feel of typing on the switches.
The split between the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear results in a unique typing experience. The impact of the bottom housing material is felt when pressing down on the switch, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. With the Aliaz having polycarbonate bottom housing, users can expect a sound profile that is crisper and sharper, while the Nylon bottom housing of the Semi-Silent Linear offers a deeper and fuller sound. On the other hand, the top housing material plays a role in the sound when releasing a key, with the polycarbonate top housing of both switches providing a similar sharp and high-pitched sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force differ significantly. The Aliaz has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Semi-Silent Linear's unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Aliaz is even heavier at 75 grams, whereas the Semi-Silent Linear has a bottom out force of 62 grams, making it slightly lighter. The Aliaz provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier forces, while the Semi-Silent Linear offers a slightly lighter touch, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. The Aliaz offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a bit more depth when pressing down on the key compared to the Semi-Silent Linear. Gamers who prioritize fast response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Semi-Silent Linear, while those who enjoy a more pronounced key press may lean towards the Aliaz. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but the Aliaz provides a slightly longer journey when pressing down on the keys compared to the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear.
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 tactile switch offers a muted experience, making it ideal for quiet environments like offices where noise is a concern. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch provides a subdued sound, which is dampened and more subtle compared to most switches. Both switches aim to minimize noise, with the Aliaz being softer and quieter, while the Semi-Silent Linear offers a more neutral sound profile suitable for various purposes. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on 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. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing overall typing comfort. Conversely, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch provides a mild and buttery feel, making typing more gentle and fluid. Additionally, the switch is snappy, offering a super responsive typing experience. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience, with the Aliaz focusing on smoothness and the Jwick on gentle responsiveness.
In conclusion, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Aliaz is tailored for quiet environments and provides a medium-heavy weight for a pronounced typing feedback, the Semi-Silent Linear offers a whisper-quiet topping-out sound and a silky smooth typing feel. Depending on your preferences, you can expect similar results in terms of quiet operation, smooth key travel, and comfortable typing experience from both switches, albeit with slight variations in sound and feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to your specific typing preferences and workspace requirements.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch or the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing environment. If you prioritize a more pronounced tactile feedback with a slightly heavier feel, the Aliaz switch may be the better choice, especially if you work in a quiet office setting. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience with a lighter touch, the Semi-Silent Linear switch could be the ideal option, offering a more subdued sound profile while maintaining a silky smooth feel. Both switches have their unique characteristics, so it's important to consider what matters most to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Aliaz and Semi-Silent Linear switches will depend on your own typing style and preferences.
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