Jwick Ginger Milk vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the Jwick Ginger Milk and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, two notable options to consider are the Jwick Ginger Milk, a linear switch, and the Gateron Type S, also a linear switch. The Ginger Milk is favored for its soft and pastel design, reflecting the smooth and approachable typing experience it offers. On the other hand, the Type S stands out for its innovative approach to key travel distances and factory lubing techniques, catering to those who prefer a weightier keystroke. While both switches fall under the category of 'Neutral', they differ in their sound profiles, with the Ginger Milk being 'Buttery' and the Type S leaning towards a more 'Subdued' acoustic experience. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Jwick Ginger Milk and the Gateron Type S switches, it is clear that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This similarity suggests that when typing on either switch, users can expect a similar experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel.
However, when it comes to the top housing, the Ginger Milk uses polycarbonate while the Type S uses nylon. Polycarbonate is stiffer and creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Type S elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This key difference in housing materials may lead to a noticeable variation in sound and overall typing experience between the two switches.
It is worth noting that the qualities of the housing materials are split between the bottom and top of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Ginger Milk and Type S may have differing top housings, their shared use of nylon for the bottom housing suggests that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the sound and feel when pressing down on the switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, there are some notable differences. The actuation force of the Ginger Milk is lighter at 50 grams compared to the Type S at 55 grams, while the bottom out force of the Ginger Milk is also lighter at 63.5 grams compared to the Type S at 65 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, offering a satisfying typing experience. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Ginger Milk for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the slightly heavier feel of the Type S 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 3.7mm, while the Gateron Type S linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm. In this case, the Ginger Milk has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Type S. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for faster response times. However, some users may find the slight difference in travel distance between the two switches to be noticeable. If you prefer a slightly shorter travel distance, the Ginger Milk may be the better option for you. Conversely, if you prefer a slightly longer travel distance, the Type S may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for key feel 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 S 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
The Ginger Milk linear switch is known for its soft and pastel aesthetics, which align with its smooth and approachable push feel. This results in a typing experience that is silky and satisfying. The sound profile of the Ginger Milk switch is described as muted and snappy, providing a pleasant auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S linear switch from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" offers a weightier keystroke with its 65g bottom-out, catering to those who prefer a slightly heavier touch. The sound signature of the Type S is described as neutral yet deeper, providing a satisfying acoustic experience.
When comparing the sound qualities of the Ginger Milk and Type S switches, both are described as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various typing environments and preferences. While the Ginger Milk offers a muted and snappy sound, the Type S provides a more subdued sound, offering a more subtle auditory experience. Factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used can also influence the sound produced by the switches.
In terms of feel, the Ginger Milk switch is described as offering a buttery typing experience, implying a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. This suggests a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation when using the switch. Unfortunately, information on the feel of the Gateron Type S switch was not provided. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, allowing users to tailor their typing experience to their preferences. Whether choosing the Ginger Milk for its soft push feel and muted sound or the Gateron Type S for its weightier keystroke and deeper sound profile, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and approachable typing experience with a muted, snappy sound profile, the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a weightier keystroke with a neutral yet deeper acoustic experience, then the Gateron Type S linear switch would be the better choice for you. Both switches offer a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making them suitable for most intents and purposes. Ultimately, the decision between the Ginger Milk and Type S comes down to personal preference in typing experience and sound profile.
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