Jwick Ginger Milk vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Jwick Ginger Milk and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at two distinct linear mechanical keyboard switches, the Jwick Ginger Milk and the Gateron Type A both offer unique features and qualities. The Ginger Milk is praised for its soft and pastel appearance, reflecting the smooth and approachable typing experience it provides with a muted, snappy sound profile. On the other hand, the Type A from Gateron introduces innovative design elements, including reimagined travel distances and factory lubing techniques, catering to those seeking a medium-weight switch with a deeper sound signature. While both switches fall under the categories of 'Neutral' and 'Subdued,' they each offer their own advantages and nuances. 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
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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 housing materials of the Jwick Ginger Milk and the Gateron Type A both play a significant role in determining the sound profile of the switches. The Ginger Milk features a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Type A utilizes a nylon top housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound. While the Ginger Milk's top housing produces a more resonant sound due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, the Type A's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Ginger Milk and the Type A use nylon, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, impacting the tactile feedback and sound produced when pressing down on the switches. This similarity in bottom housing materials between the two switches showcases a commonality in the desired sound profile, despite the difference in their top housing materials. As a result, typing on both switches will elicit a similar depth and fullness in sound due to the shared nylon bottom housing.
Overall, the choice between the Ginger Milk and the Type A will come down to personal preference in sound profile. The Ginger Milk's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the Type A's nylon top housing results in a deeper and fuller sound. The shared nylon bottom housing ensures that both switches deliver a similar level of sound absorption and tactile feedback. Whether you prefer a sharper, more resonant sound or a deeper, fuller sound, both switches offer unique characteristics based on their housing materials to cater to individual preferences in typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, we can see that both switches have the same actuation force of 50 grams. However, the Ginger Milk has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the Type A has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams. The Ginger Milk switch is considered medium-heavy in terms of bottom out force, while the Type A switch is medium-light. This difference in bottom out force may impact the typing experience for users who prefer a lighter or heavier touch. Those who like a lighter feel may appreciate the Type A switch for longer typing sessions, while those who prefer a stronger push may opt for the Ginger Milk switch for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Gateron Type A linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Type A switch is the longer of the two. The Ginger Milk offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it potentially more suitable for gamers looking for faster response times. The Type A, with its longer travel distance, may appeal more to those who prefer a more substantial key press feel. Both switches fall within the realm of modern switch travel distances, with the Ginger Milk being slightly shorter than the traditional 4.0 mm distance and the Type A remaining close to it. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Ginger Milk has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ginger Milk for $4.25.
The Gateron Type A 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
When it comes to sound, both the Jwick Ginger Milk and the Gateron Type A linear switches offer a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a variety of environments and user preferences. However, the Ginger Milk switch has a slightly snappier sound, while the Type A switch leans towards a deeper and more subdued sound. Ultimately, the sound experience will also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Ginger Milk switch is known for providing a buttery smooth typing experience, with a silky and approachable push feel. On the other hand, there is no specific description available for the feel of the Gateron Type A switch, so it is advised to try out the switch first-hand to understand the typing sensation it offers.
In conclusion, both the Jwick Ginger Milk and the Gateron Type A linear switches have their own unique qualities when it comes to sound and feel. While the Ginger Milk switch offers a muted, snappy sound profile and a buttery smooth typing experience, the Type A switch provides a deeper and more subdued sound. Ultimately, the best way to determine which switch is right for you is to try them out yourself and consider factors such as personal preference, typing style, and the overall typing setup.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, opt for the Ginger Milk. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, go for the Type A. Additionally, consider the sound profile you desire - the Ginger Milk offers a neutral sound, while the Type A provides a deeper, more subdued sound. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and the experience you are seeking.
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