Everglide Crystal Violet vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Everglide Crystal Violet and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Everglide Crystal Violet and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Crystal Violet provides a tactile typing experience with a light operating force of 45g, perfect for those looking for a relaxed and gentle feel while typing. Its mellow sound profile leans towards the lower-pitched spectrum, creating a subtle and non-intrusive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° by Gateron is a linear switch that focuses on silent typing with its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure. This switch offers unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise. Both switches have their own set of characteristics that make them appealing to different users. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Crystal Violet and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, we can see that they both have unique characteristics. The Crystal Violet's ABS top housing provides a low-pitched sound profile, while the Zero Degree 0°'s polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound. The ABS bottom housing of the Crystal Violet also contributes to a low-pitched sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Zero Degree 0° produces a deeper and fuller sound. These differences in housing materials result in distinct sound profiles for each switch, catering to different preferences for sound and feel while typing.
Although the housing materials of the Crystal Violet and Zero Degree 0° differ, they share similarities in terms of using uncommon plastics for switch housings. ABS is not commonly used in switch housings, but it is frequently seen in keycaps, contributing to a unique typing experience. Similarly, nylon is a classic switch housing material that is not as commonly used, providing a different sound profile compared to more common plastics like polycarbonate. Despite these differences, both switches offer users the opportunity to experience a less common housing material and the distinct sound profile it brings.
The impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall sound and feel of a switch should not be overlooked. While the bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings demonstrates the importance of carefully selecting housing materials to achieve the desired typing experience. Whether opting for the Crystal Violet with its ABS housing or the Zero Degree 0° with its combination of polycarbonate and nylon, users can appreciate the unique characteristics that each housing material brings to the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is apparent that the Crystal Violet requires a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Zero Degree 0°. However, the bottom out force of the Crystal Violet is heavier at 55 grams, while the bottom out force of the Zero Degree 0° is unknown. The Crystal Violet provides a medium-light typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° may offer a lighter actuation force but lacks information on its bottom out force, making it difficult to determine if it provides a lighter or heavier typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, we can see that the Crystal Violet has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Zero Degree's 3.6 mm. The Crystal Violet offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Zero Degree provides a shallower experience. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Zero Degree for faster response times, while others may find the longer travel distance of the Crystal Violet to be more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference on the desired depth and responsiveness.
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 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 Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch is best suited for those who prefer a low-pitched and mellow tone, providing a subtle and non-intrusive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is focused on silent typing, with its innovative design aimed at absorbing sound and reducing noise. While the specific sound profile of the Zero Degree 0° switch is unknown, it is clear that both switches offer unique auditory experiences based on their design and construction.
When it comes to feel, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch is known for its creamy and mild typing experience, offering a smooth and gentle feel with a stepped tactile response. This allows for a comfortable and easy typing sensation, ideal for those looking for a more relaxed keystroke. The feel of the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, on the other hand, is not explicitly described; however, being a linear switch, it is likely to provide a consistent and smooth keystroke without tactile feedback.
Overall, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Crystal Violet switch provides a low-pitched and creamy typing experience with a gentle tactile response, the Zero Degree 0° switch focuses on silent typing with a smooth and stable keystroke. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing feel, both switches can offer satisfying results, catering to different typing styles and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a gentle and comfortable typing experience, the Everglide Crystal Violet may be the ideal choice for you. The mellow sound profile and unique ABS housing make these switches perfect for a relaxed typing session. On the other hand, if you prioritize a linear switch with innovative design features that deliver unparalleled smoothness and stability, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for tactile versus linear switches, as well as the specific qualities that each switch brings to your typing experience.
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