Jwick Ginger Milk vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Jwick Ginger Milk and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Jwick Ginger Milk and the Gateron Type L are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique qualities for typing enthusiasts. The Ginger Milk is praised for its soft and pastel appearance, mirroring the smooth and approachable push feel it provides during typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L stands out as the lightest in its series, requiring only 45g to bottom out, and producing a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum. While the Ginger Milk is described as 'Neutral' and 'Buttery,' the Type L is categorized as 'Neutral,' 'Subdued,' 'Feathery,' and 'Easy-to-press.' Each switch has its own appeal and advantages, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Jwick Ginger Milk and the Gateron Type L switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Ginger Milk utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to the stiffness of the plastic. This makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual appeal. In contrast, the Type L features a nylon top housing that creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, attributed to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound to produce a rounder tone.
Both the Ginger Milk and the Type L switches share a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other housing materials. This is because nylon's softness allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound upon typing. Consequently, regardless of the switch being used, the bottom housing significantly impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the keys. However, the sound produced when releasing a key is influenced more by the top housing material, whether it be polycarbonate in the case of the Ginger Milk or nylon for the Type L.
In conclusion, the choice of housing material in mechanical switches such as the Ginger Milk and the Type L greatly influences the overall sound profile and feel of typing. While the Ginger Milk's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp and resonant sound, the Type L's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller tone. Similarly, both switches utilize a nylon bottom housing for a consistent deep sound upon keystrokes. Understanding the properties of different housing materials can help enthusiasts make informed decisions when selecting switches for their keyboards based on sound preferences and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, it becomes evident that the Ginger Milk is heavier while the Type L is lighter. The actuation force of the Ginger Milk is 50 grams, while the Type L requires only 38 grams for actuation. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Ginger Milk is 63.5 grams, whereas the Type L has a lower bottom out force of 45 grams. The Ginger Milk provides a medium-heavy typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a more substantial push feel, while the Type L offers a lighter touch, perfect for longer typing sessions or gaming. Overall, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience. In both cases, users can expect reliable performance and satisfying tactile feedback, in line with their desired actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, the Ginger Milk has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Type L has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Ginger Milk the shorter of the two switches. The 3.7 mm travel distance of the Ginger Milk provides a quicker response time, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Type L offers a deeper and more substantial feeling when pressing down on a key. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to individual preference - whether one prefers a shorter, quicker travel distance or a longer, more satisfying press. Both switches offer different experiences, so users can choose the one that best suits their typing or gaming needs.
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 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
When it comes to sound, both the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch are described as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes from beginner to advanced users. The Ginger Milk offers a more muted and snappy sound profile, while the Type L leans towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum with a more subdued sound signature. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Ginger Milk switch is known for its buttery smooth typing experience, providing a seamless and uniform keystroke sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, requiring minimal exertion from the fingers and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the Ginger Milk emphasizing smoothness and the Type L focusing on light actuation force and minimal resistance.
Overall, while the subjective qualities of the Ginger Milk and Type L switches differ slightly in terms of sound and feel, both switches are designed to provide a pleasant typing experience for users. Whether you prefer a softer, pastel typing experience with a muted sound profile like the Ginger Milk or a light and effortless typing sensation with a deeper sound profile like the Type L, you can expect similar results in terms of comfort and performance with both switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch or the Gateron Type L linear switch, you should take into account your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams and a smooth, snappy typing experience with a muted sound profile, then the Ginger Milk switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum, and a feathery, easy-to-press typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, then the Gateron Type L switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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