Bsun Cliff vs. Gateron Glory Red
An in-depth look at the Bsun Cliff and the Gateron Glory Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often boils down to personal preference and typing style. The Bsun Cliff switch, a tactile option, is celebrated for its medium tactility and distinctive crisp sound, providing an invigorating typing experience that many users find satisfying for both typing and gaming. In contrast, the Gateron Glory Red switch is a linear switch known for its smooth keystrokes and comfortable travel distance, making it a favorite for those who prioritize effortless key presses in a quieter setting. While the Cliff offers feedback that can enhance accuracy during intense gaming sessions, the Glory Red is ideal for those who enjoy a seamless, rapid typing flow. 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Cliff and Gateron Glory Red switches utilize different materials for their top housings, leading to distinct sound profiles with contrasting auditory experiences. The Cliff features a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This results from polycarbonate's stiffer nature, enhancing the clarity and resonance of the audio produced during typing. In contrast, the Glory Red utilizes a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder acoustic quality. Therefore, the material choice for the top housing significantly influences the overall auditory feedback experienced by the user.
Interestingly, both switches contain nylon for their bottom housings, which means they share similar acoustic properties in this area. The use of nylon in the bottom housing contributes to a cushioned sound profile, providing a muted and soft feedback upon actuation. With both the Cliff and Glory Red employing nylon for their bottom sections, both switches will produce a deeper and fuller sound when a key is pressed down. This shared material leads to an expected consistency in the bottom-out sound, enhancing the tactile experience across both switches even while their upper characteristics diverge.
When considering the overall performance of each switch, it becomes evident that the combination of differing materials for their top housings introduces a unique interplay between sound and feel. The Cliff's polycarbonate top accentuates the auditory clarity as keys are released, while the common nylon bottom provides a harmonious depth when pressed. Conversely, the Gateron Glory Red will offer a more subdued auditory experience throughout each key press and release due to its nylon top. In essence, while both switches might produce similar bottom-out sounds due to their identical nylon bottom housings, the overall sound experience remains distinct owing to the differences in upper housing materials. Thus, one would achieve varying acoustic results depending on the particular housing arrangement of each switch, effectively demonstrating how the materials shape the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Cliff tactile switch to the Gateron Glory Red linear switch, there is a notable difference in their actuation forces. The Cliff switch has a light actuation force of 37 grams, which can contribute to more comfortable typing over extended periods, making it suitable for long work sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Gateron Glory Red has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, providing a more substantial push feel that some users prefer for a satisfying typing experience. In terms of bottom out force, the Cliff switch bottoms out at 45 grams, while the bottom out force for the Glory Red is unknown. This means the Cliff switch offers a consistent feedback experience, whereas the Glory Red's complete bottoming out experience is indeterminate. Consequently, those who appreciate a lighter switch may lean towards the Cliff, while users who desire a stronger keystroke feel may opt for the Glory Red.
Travel distance
Both the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Gateron Glory Red linear switch have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, indicating that they offer an identical experience in terms of how far the key travels when pressed down. This means that users can expect similar results in tactile feedback and key actuation when using either switch, as the travel distance significantly impacts the feel and responsiveness of the keys. Therefore, no significant differences exist between these two switches in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Cliff has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cliff for $2.19.
The Gateron Glory Red has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Red for $4.19.
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 Bsun Cliff tactile switch presents a crisp sound signature that adds an auditory element to the typing experience. This crispness is likely to be more satisfying for users who enjoy that auditory feedback on each keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Glory Red linear switch is designed to be quieter, featuring a smooth, unobtrusive sound profile devoid of tactile bump sounds. However, it’s important to remember that the overall sound of a switch can be influenced by the keyboard's construction, materials, and even the choice of keycaps, which can lead to similar results in sound characteristics across different setups.
Focusing on the feel, the Cliff switch offers an invigorating sensation marked by pronounced feedback. The moderate to firm actuation force results in a snappy and reactive typing experience that can be engaging for typists who enjoy that tactile response. On the other hand, the Glory Red switch provides a different tactile experience; it is characterized by a smooth keystroke and lighter actuation, making it ideal for users who prefer a fluid and less disruptive typing motion. While both switches offer unique feel qualities, they cater to different typing preferences, with the Cliff focusing on more pronounced feedback and the Glory Red emphasizing a seamless experience.
In conclusion, while the Bsun Cliff tactile switch excels in delivering a crisp sound and invigorating feel due to its pronounced feedback, the Gateron Glory Red linear switch stands out with its smooth operation and quieter profile. Both switches are designed with different user experiences in mind, and choosing between them ultimately depends on individual preferences regarding sound and tactile feedback. If you're looking for a typing experience that leans towards a satisfying tactile response and noticeable sound, the Cliff is your go-to. Conversely, if you desire a quieter and smoother operation, the Glory Red may be the better option. Regardless, each provides a distinct experience that can enhance your typing, depending on what qualities you value most.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Gateron Glory Red linear switch ultimately hinges on your specific typing preferences and the type of experience you're seeking. If you enjoy a tactile feedback that provides a crisp sound signature and invigorating sensation, the Cliff is an excellent option for you. Its medium tactility ensures that you receive noticeable feedback with each keypress, making it ideal for typing enthusiasts who appreciate a blend of responsiveness and auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, uninterrupted keystroke experience with a lighter force feel for fast-paced gaming or extensive typing sessions, the Gateron Glory Red linear switch will suit your needs better. Its pleasing travel distance creates an enjoyable typing experience without the tactile bump, allowing for fluid and swift key presses. Therefore, consider your activities—whether you're more inclined to gaming or typing—and choose the switch that aligns with your desired tactile experience and sound preferences for optimal satisfaction.
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