Gateron Aliaz vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to Gateron mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Aliaz and Gateron Type L. The Aliaz switch is a tactile switch, known for its quiet operation, medium-heavy weight, and pronounced typing feedback, making it ideal for office environments or for those who prefer a more substantial feel to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Type L is a linear switch that is part of Sillyworks' "Project Rehash," offering a light actuation force of 45g and a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum. The Type L is characterized by its feathery and easy-to-press feel, making it a great choice for users seeking a smooth and effortless typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron Aliaz and Gateron Type L will depend on your personal preferences and typing style. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Aliaz and the Gateron Type L both feature different housing materials for their top and bottom housings. The Aliaz utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This results in a clear and resonant sound when typing on the switch. In contrast, the Type L incorporates a nylon top and bottom housing, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound while typing.
While the top and bottom housings of the Aliaz and Type L switches differ in material, they both offer unique sound profiles based on the properties of their respective housing materials. The polycarbonate housing of the Aliaz provides a sharp and crisp sound profile, ideal for those looking for a more distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon housing of the Type L delivers a deeper and fuller sound, perfect for users seeking a more mellow typing sound. Despite the differences in material, both switches offer high-quality construction and reliable performance.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Aliaz and the Type L will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. The Aliaz's polycarbonate housing offers a sharper, more resonant sound, while the Type L's nylon housing provides a deeper, fuller sound. The material of the housing plays a significant role in the overall typing experience, influencing the sound profile when pressing down and releasing keys. Whether you prefer a clear and crisp sound or a fuller and rounder sound, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that cater to different preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, it is evident that the Type L is lighter in both aspects. The Aliaz has a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a higher bottom out force of 75 grams, making it a heavier switch overall. On the other hand, the Type L has a lower actuation force of 38 grams and a lower bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Aliaz for its heavier forces, while those who enjoy a lighter touch for longer typing sessions may find the Type L more suitable. Despite the differences in force, both switches offer a tactile experience that provides similar results in terms of keystroke activation and bottoming out.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch have a travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance between the two switches means that you can expect similar results in terms of key feel and actuation point. While some may prefer the tactile feedback of the Aliaz switch, others may prefer the smooth linear feel of the Type L switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to personal preference rather than differences in travel distance.
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 Gateron Type L comes in at $4.70 per 10 switches.
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 provides a muted typing experience, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular mechanical switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L linear switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound profile that leans towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum, providing a more subtle sound signature. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound, with the Aliaz being better suited for quiet environments like offices while the Type L offers a sound that is suitable for various intents and purposes.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is known for its silky and polished typing experience, offering exceptional smoothness and refined key travel. The switch minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys, enhancing the overall smoothness of each keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Type L linear switch provides a feathery and easy-to-press typing feel, requiring minimal exertion and offering gentle resistance during key presses. This light actuation force reduces finger fatigue, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions such as gaming or work. Both switches excel in providing a high-quality typing experience, with the Aliaz focusing on smoothness and refinement while the Type L prioritizes ease of typing and comfort.
In conclusion, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aliaz is tailored for a quiet typing experience with its muted sound and silky typing feel, perfect for those looking for a more substantial feedback without the noise. On the other hand, the Type L provides a more neutral and subdued sound profile along with a feathery and easy-to-press typing feel, making it suitable for various purposes and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on personal preference, with both options promising a high-quality typing experience tailored to different needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, consider the environment in which you will be using the keyboard and your preference for typing feedback. If you are in a quiet setting like an office and enjoy a more pronounced typing feedback with a medium-heavy weight, the Aliaz switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prioritize a lighter weight and a more subtle sound profile for versatile use whether at home or work, the Type L switch is the better option. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and the setting in which you will be using your keyboard.
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