Gateron Glory Red vs. Jerrzi Orange
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Red and the Jerrzi Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly influence your typing experience, and two popular options, the Gateron Glory Red and the Jerrzi Orange, offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Glory Red switches are renowned for their smooth keystrokes and pleasing travel distance, making them an excellent choice for those who prioritize a seamless typing experience without any tactile bumps or noise. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange switches boast a clacky, lightweight feel that provides crisp and audible feedback with each keystroke, which can invigorate the typing experience for enthusiasts who thrive on a more lively and responsive touch. While both switches are linear, the preference for a smoother versus a more pronounced and feathery response can ultimately shape a user's choice. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the Gateron Glory Red and the Jerrzi Orange switch designs, a notable difference lies in the top housing material. The Glory Red features a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This results from nylon's softer properties, allowing it to absorb sound and create a duller audio experience. Conversely, the Jerrzi Orange employs a polycarbonate top housing that contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, enhances the clarity and resonance of sounds produced during typing. While both materials serve their purpose as switch housings, their contrasting characteristics yield distinctly different auditory experiences, reflecting a divergence in design philosophy tailored for varying user preferences.
The bottom housings of both the Gateron Glory Red and the Jerrzi Orange switches, however, share a commonality as both utilize nylon. This similarity means that the overall deeper and fuller sound profile associated with nylon will be experienced in both switches despite their distinct top housings. The nylon's ability to absorb impact sounds leads to a more muted bottom-out experience, which can create a more consistent feel across the key press. Therefore, when comparing the switches, the impact of the bottom housing will contribute similarly to the sound and tactile feedback experienced during typing, even though the top housings will dictate the auditory character of the sound released during key release.
Ultimately, the interplay between the different housing materials results in an overall unique typing experience for both switches. While the Gateron Glory Red integrates a nylon top that promotes a warm, muted sound, the Jerrzi Orange’s polycarbonate top lends itself to more pronounced and vibrant acoustics. Nevertheless, both switches benefit from the nylon bottom housing, ensuring a coherent baseline of sound and feel. Users who appreciate a fuller, more subdued auditory experience may gravitate toward the Glory Red, whereas those seeking a crisp and resonant sound will likely favor the Jerrzi Orange.
Weight
The Gateron Glory Red and Jerrzi Orange linear switches demonstrate notable differences in their actuation forces, with the Glory Red requiring 45 grams to trigger a keystroke, while the Orange switch needs only 37 grams. This makes the Jerrzi Orange significantly lighter, making it potentially more suitable for users who prefer effortless typing or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Gateron Glory Red may appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience, as it offers a firmer push feel. Both switches have unknown bottom out forces, so we cannot compare them in that regard. However, the disparity in actuation forces suggests that users might experience different levels of fatigue over prolonged use, with the Orange likely being the more ergonomic choice.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Jerrzi Orange linear switch, there is a slight distinction between the two. The Glory Red features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Orange has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that the Jerrzi Orange offers a longer travel distance by 0.1 mm, which may appeal to users who prefer a more pronounced keypress experience. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the Glory Red might be favored by gamers seeking quicker response times, as the reduced distance can enhance speed and responsiveness during gameplay. Ultimately, the choice between these switches should reflect personal preference: those valuing a deeper, more traditional feel might lean towards the Jerrzi Orange, while those who prioritize rapid presses would benefit from the Gateron Glory Red.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Glory Red has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Red for $4.19.
The Jerrzi Orange has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $2.30.
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 sound profile of the Gateron Glory Red linear switch is characterized by a subtle and muted tone, aligning with its reputation for a smooth and quiet keystroke. This makes it ideal for environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum, such as offices or shared spaces. In contrast, the Jerrzi Orange linear switch produces a distinctive and lively clacky sound, offering a crisp and audible feedback with each keystroke. This sharp auditory response can excite typists who enjoy a more vibrant and engaging typing experience, adding a layer of satisfaction to each press. Therefore, while both switches provide unique auditory experiences, the Glory Red leans towards a more understated approach, whereas the Orange brings an element of liveliness that appeals to enthusiasts.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Glory Red is known for delivering a smooth keystroke that emphasizes pleasant travel distance, making it a comfortable option for daily typing and gaming. It affords a gentle tactile experience that many users find enjoyable. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange switch is noted for its exceptionally lightweight and feathery feel, requiring minimal exertion for presses. This reduced actuation force allows for prolonged use without causing significant finger fatigue, making it comfortable for extended periods of typing. Therefore, while both switches aim to enhance the typing experience, the Glory Red emphasizes a balanced smoothness, while the Orange focuses on lightness and ease of pressing.
In summary, when comparing the Gateron Glory Red and Jerrzi Orange switches, you find two linear options that cater to different preferences. The Glory Red excels in providing a smooth, quieter keystroke that is suitable for discreet environments, while the Jerrzi Orange offers a lively, clacky experience with a light touch that many users may find exhilarating. Depending on what you're after, both switches present compelling choices that can guarantee a satisfying typing experience; however, their distinct sound profiles and tactile sensations speak to different user preferences, ensuring that there is a suitable option for everyone in the realm of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Jerrzi Orange linear switch, consider your personal preferences and typing needs. If you favor a smooth and uncomplicated typing experience that focuses on comfort during extended sessions, the Glory Red switch would be an excellent choice due to its effortless keystroke and lack of distracting sound. It's particularly suitable for those who appreciate a quieter workspace and engage in tasks that require concentration, like coding or writing. On the other hand, if you're an enthusiast who enjoys a livelier typing experience and appreciates tactile feedback, the Jerrzi Orange switch is the way to go. With its crisp, clacky sound and feathery touch, it's tailored for those who thrive on responsive performance and a little auditory enjoyment, making it ideal for gaming or quick typing tasks where you might want that extra pop. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a more subdued, smooth experience or a responsive, lively feel.