Everglide Crystal Violet vs. Everglide Oreo
An in-depth look at the Everglide Crystal Violet and the Everglide Oreo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Everglide offers two enticing options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts: the Crystal Violet and the Oreo switches. The Crystal Violet switches are renowned for their light operating force of 45g, which creates a relaxed and stepped tactile typing experience. These switches provide a gentle and comfortable feel, and their sound profile leans towards the lower-pitched spectrum, resulting in a subtle and non-intrusive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Oreo switches offer a delectable treat for your fingertips with a crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top, followed by a delightfully cushioned sensation when bottoming out. They strike the perfect balance between satisfying keystrokes and a comfortable typing experience. While the Crystal Violet switches can be described as 'creamy', 'low-pitched', 'mild', 'neutral', and 'stepped', the Oreo switches are characterized as 'accented', 'chirpy', and 'stepped'. However, let's delve deeper into the specifics of each switch to help you make an informed decision based on your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
ABS
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
ABS
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Everglide Crystal Violet and the Everglide Oreo differ in their housing materials for both the top and bottom of the switch. The Crystal Violet features an ABS top housing, while the Oreo utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. The ABS top housing of the Crystal Violet contributes to a relatively low-pitched sound profile when typing, which is a characteristic commonly associated with ABS material. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Oreo creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which results in a more clear and resonant sound. Furthermore, the polycarbonate top housing of the Oreo is particularly advantageous for those who plan to use RGB lighting due to its translucency.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the Crystal Violet and Oreo also differ. The Crystal Violet adopts an ABS bottom housing, contributing to a relatively low-pitched sound profile when typing, similar to its top housing. On the contrary, the Oreo features a polycarbonate bottom housing. This polycarbonate material enhances the sound profile by creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when bottoming out the keys. Just like the polycarbonate top housing, the translucency of the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Oreo is beneficial for users planning to utilize RGB lighting in their keyboards.
When comparing the two switch variants, it is important to note that the qualities brought by the different housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing the keys, while the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing the keys. This distinction allows users to customize their typing experience by selecting switches that align with their preferred sound profiles and tactile feedback. Whether it is the low-pitched sound of ABS in the Crystal Violet or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Oreo, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to various user preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch, it can be observed that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams and bottom out force of 55 grams, which falls under the category of medium-light. This means that both switches require a relatively light force to trigger a keystroke and provide a similar typing experience in terms of weight. Therefore, individuals who prefer a lighter feel for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions can opt for either switch confidently. However, for those who prefer a stronger and more substantial typing experience, these switches may not meet their preference as they both have the same force characteristics. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of both the Everglide Crystal Violet and Everglide Oreo tactile switches are identical, ensuring a similar typing experience for users.
Travel distance
The Everglide Crystal Violet and Everglide Oreo tactile switches both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either one of these switches, you will feel a consistent 4 mm distance of travel. Both switches offer the same tactile feedback and can provide a satisfying typing experience. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, you can expect similar results from both the Crystal Violet and Oreo switches. These switches are a great choice for individuals who prefer a moderate amount of key travel and tactile feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Crystal Violet has an MSRP of $7.08 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Crystal Violet for $4.19.
The Everglide Oreo has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Oreo 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
The Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch is known for its pleasant and mellow sound profile. The switches produce a low-pitched tone, which gives a bass-heavy and soothing auditory experience. This is achieved in part due to the rare use of ABS materials in the switches' housings. On the other hand, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch has a more subtle and mellow sound profile. While specifics are unknown, it can be inferred that the Oreo switch produces a softer and less intrusive sound during typing.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Crystal Violet offers a creamy and mild typing experience. The switches are described as creamy, providing a smooth and buttery sensation while typing. This could be the result of lubrication applied at the factory or specific materials used in the switch construction. Additionally, the Crystal Violet switches have a mild tactility, meaning they offer a gentle typing experience without any overwhelming characteristics. They can be considered approachable to most users. Moreover, the Crystal Violet switches are classified as stepped switches, meaning they have two stages of tactile feedback. These switches have some pre-travel and/or post-travel, adding to the overall mildness of the typing experience.
Similarly, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch also falls into the stepped switch category, providing a similar mild and stepped typing experience as the Crystal Violet. The Oreo switch is described as accented, indicating a medium level of tactility. This level of tactility is prominent enough to be noticeable without being overwhelming or subtle. The Oreo switch offers a crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top, followed by a cushioned sensation when bottoming out.
In conclusion, both the Everglide Crystal Violet and Oreo tactile switches offer a mellow sound profile, providing a pleasant auditory experience during typing. In terms of feel, both switches have mild characteristics and are classified as stepped switches, offering a gentle and comfortable typing experience. While specifics may differ, such as the exact sound and tactility profile, users can expect similar results from these switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two would come down to personal preference based on the specific sound and feel desired.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a relaxed and stepped tactile typing experience, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch is the way to go. It offers a gentle and comfortable feel with a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams. The sound profile of the Crystal Violet switches is pleasantly mellow and leans towards the lower-pitched spectrum, creating a subtle and non-intrusive auditory experience. These switches are made with ABS housings, which adds to their unique sound profile.
On the other hand, if you want a crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top, followed by a delightfully cushioned sensation when bottoming out, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch is the better choice. These switches provide a palatable medium light tactility, striking the perfect balance between a satisfying keystroke and comfortable typing experience. The Oreo switches have a distinct chirpy sound profile, setting them apart from other switches.
Ultimately, your decision between the Crystal Violet and Oreo switches will depend on your preference for feel and sound. If you prefer a more relaxed and mellow typing experience, the Crystal Violet switches are a great option. If you enjoy a crisper tactile bump with a unique chirpy sound, the Oreo switches will be more to your liking.
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