Everglide Crystal Violet vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Everglide Crystal Violet and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Everglide Crystal Violet, a tactile switch, and the Gateron Type L, a linear switch, stand out as popular choices. The Crystal Violet offers a light operating force of 45g, providing a relaxed and stepped tactile typing experience perfect for those seeking a gentle and comfortable feel. With a mellow and low-pitched sound profile, the Crystal Violet switch creates a subtle auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" offers a light and easy-to-press linear typing experience, revitalizing classic travel distances with contemporary factory lubing practices. While the Type L requires only 45g to bottom out, it delivers a sound signature leaning towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum. Both switches have their unique qualities and appeal, making it essential to explore beyond generalities to determine the best switch for individual preferences and typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
ABS
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
ABS
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Everglide Crystal Violet and the Gateron Type L both feature ABS top housings, which are known for providing a relatively low-pitched sound profile when typing. However, the Type L's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound than ABS. This creates a duller and rounder sound compared to the Crystal Violet's ABS top housing. While both housings offer durability and a smooth typing experience, the choice between ABS and nylon may ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Crystal Violet and the Type L both feature ABS bottom housings. Similarly to the top housings, ABS material provides a relatively low-pitched sound profile when typing. On the other hand, the Type L's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's sound-absorbing properties. This means that the Type L switch may produce a slightly different sound when bottoming out compared to the Crystal Violet switch. Again, the choice between ABS and nylon bottom housings may depend on personal preference in sound profile and typing feel.
When considering the overall sound profile and typing experience of the Everglide Crystal Violet and the Gateron Type L switches, it's important to note that the top and bottom housings play a significant role in shaping the overall sound and feel of the switch. While both switches feature differing housing materials, they both offer a smooth and durable typing experience. The Crystal Violet's ABS housing may provide a slightly higher-pitched sound profile compared to the Type L's nylon housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to individual preferences in sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Gateron Type L linear switch. The Crystal Violet has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it medium-light in terms of weight. On the other hand, the Type L has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, which is lighter. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Type L may be the better option, allowing for longer typing periods without fatigue. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial push feel, the Crystal Violet provides a slightly heavier typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing feel.
Travel distance
The Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches provide a similar tactile experience and actuation depth for users. As a result, whether you choose the Crystal Violet or the Type L, you can expect consistent performance in terms of travel distance. Both switches offer a moderate amount of travel distance, providing a balanced typing experience for those who prefer a standard key press depth. Overall, the travel distance of both switches is identical, making them equally suitable options for users looking for a comfortable typing experience.
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 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
Overall, both the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. In terms of sound, the Crystal Violet provides a low-pitched and neutral auditory experience, while the Type L offers a subdued and neutral sound signature. When it comes to feel, the Crystal Violet delivers a creamy, mild, and stepped typing sensation, while the Type L offers a feathery and easy-to-press typing experience. If you prefer a quieter and more tactile typing experience, the Crystal Violet may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a softer touch with a quieter sound, the Type L would be a suitable option. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on your personal preference for sound, feel, and the overall typing experience you are seeking.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force and sound and feel characteristics. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force at 55 grams and enjoy a creamy and mild typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, then the Crystal Violet switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force at 45 grams and appreciate a feathery and easy-to-press typing experience with a subdued and neutral sound profile, then the Type L switch may be the better option for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal typing preferences and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
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