Gateron Aliaz vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch to the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, we can see distinct differences in their design and functionality. The Aliaz switch is ideal for quiet environments like the office, offering a medium-heavy weight that provides a substantial feel to each keystroke. This makes it a great choice for those who prefer a more pronounced typing feedback without the noise, making it perfect for those who value a silent typing experience. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° linear switch by Gateron revolutionizes silent typing with its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, delivering unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise. Although both switches have their unique benefits, it ultimately comes down to personal preference 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
45g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The main difference between the Gateron Aliaz and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° housing materials lies in their bottom housings. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, the Aliaz utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing as well. This results in a consistent clear and resonant sound profile throughout the entire keypress. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° implements a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon absorbing more sound. This creates a duller and rounder sound compared to the Aliaz.
In terms of aesthetics, both switches feature clear housings due to the use of polycarbonate in their top housings. This translucency makes them ideal for those interested in utilizing RGB lighting, as the light would shine through the clear material to enhance the visual experience. However, when it comes to sound and feel, the choice between the Aliaz's consistent sharp and crisp profile and the Zero Degree 0°'s deeper and fuller profile ultimately comes down to personal preference. Those looking for a more resonant sound may prefer the Aliaz, while others seeking a softer, more rounded sound may lean towards the Zero Degree 0°.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° play a crucial role in the sound profile and feel of each switch. The polycarbonate top housings in both switches provide a consistent sharp and resonant sound, especially when coupled with RGB lighting. However, the difference in bottom housings sets them apart, with the Aliaz offering a clear and crisp sound profile throughout the keypress, while the Zero Degree 0° provides a deeper and fuller sound thanks to its nylon bottom housing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel during typing.
Weight
Comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch reveals some key differences. The Aliaz has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a higher bottom out force of 75 grams, providing a more robust typing experience. In contrast, the Zero Degree 0° offers a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. The Aliaz is therefore better suited for those who prefer a more substantial push feel, while the Zero Degree 0° may be preferred by those who prefer a lighter typing experience. Both switches offer unique benefits, as the lighter actuation force of the Zero Degree 0° allows for longer typing sessions, while the heavier forces of the Aliaz provide a more tactile and satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Aliaz has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Zero Degree 0°. The Aliaz offers a more traditional feel with its 4 mm travel distance, providing a more deliberate key press. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° with its 3.6 mm travel distance offers a shallower and potentially faster response for those who prefer quick key presses. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance – whether you prefer the shorter, quicker option or the longer, more deliberate one. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs.
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 Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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 best suited for those looking for a muted typing experience, perfect for quiet environments such as the office. The sound produced is softer and quieter compared to regular mechanical switches, minimizing the noise usually associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch offers a unique self-padding design and dual-rail structure that absorbs sound and reduces noise, providing an unparalleled smooth typing experience. When comparing the two, the Aliaz will offer a quieter sound profile than the Zero Degree 0° due to its specifically designed silence-focused features.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch offers a silky and polished typing experience, providing an exceptionally smooth and refined feel to each keystroke. These switches minimize resistance when pressing and releasing keys, enhancing overall smoothness during typing sessions. On the contrary, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch's feel is unknown. However, one can expect a smooth and stable typing experience due to its innovative design and focus on reducing noise. Overall, the Aliaz is tailored for those who enjoy a substantial and smooth typing feedback, while the Zero Degree 0° is designed for users seeking unparalleled smoothness and stability in their typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aliaz is optimal for those looking for a quieter typing experience with a medium-heavy weight and a substantial feel, perfect for office environments. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° provides an innovative design focused on smoothness, stability, and noise reduction, making it an excellent choice for users who prefer a silent and soft typing experience. Both switches offer unique benefits, so selecting between the two would depend on individual preferences for sound and typing feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, consider the environment in which you will be using the keyboard. If you are in a quiet setting like an office and prefer a more pronounced typing feedback without the noise, the Aliaz switch with its medium-heavy weight and silent design would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value unmatched smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise, the innovative self-padding design of the Zero Degree 0° switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your preference for typing experience and noise level will determine which switch is the better fit for you.
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