Gateron Glory Red vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Red and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Glory Red and the Gateron Mini i present two distinct options catering to different preferences. The Glory Red switches, known for their smooth and effortless keystrokes, provide a pleasant travel distance and are categorized as linear switches, making them ideal for users who prioritize quick actuation and an uninterrupted typing experience. This linear design is particularly appealing for gamers and those who enjoy a fluid typing motion without the tactile bump. In contrast, the Gateron Mini i switches offer a gentle tactile feedback that enriches the typing experience while striking a balance with a muted sound profile. As a tactile switch, the Mini i caters to professionals seeking comfort during long hours of use, ensuring a satisfying response without the noisy distractions often associated with mechanical keyboards. Ultimately, both switches have their unique advantages, and while the Glory Red may be ideal for speed and smoothness, the Mini i excels in providing subtle feedback for prolonged typing sessions. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials for both the Gateron Glory Red and the Gateron Mini i switches are characterized by their use of nylon, a classic material known for its acoustic properties. Both switches feature nylon in both their top and bottom housings, which means that they are likely to produce similar auditory experiences. The deeper and fuller sound profiles associated with nylon are due to its softer composition, which effectively absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a softer, duller, and rounder sound that can be appreciated during typing.
Since both the Glory Red and Mini i incorporate nylon in both their top and bottom housings, the impact on sound and feel is consistent across these switches. The nylon material in the bottom housing contributes significantly to the bottom-out sound and tactile feel when a key is pressed down. Meanwhile, the nylon top housing influences the sound produced when the key is released. Because both switches utilize identical materials for both housing components, users will experience a cohesive sound and tactile profile regardless of which model they choose.
In conclusion, the use of nylon in both the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Glory Red and Gateron Mini i ensures a similar acoustic and tactile experience. The shared properties of nylon will result in a muted bottom-out sound and a rounded sound upon key release, making for a satisfying typing experience. Therefore, for users considering either switch, they can expect comparable performance, sound quality, and feel that align closely with the effects dictated by their nylon construction.
Weight
The Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch differ in their actuation and bottom out forces, which can significantly influence typing and gaming experiences. The Glory Red features an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Mini i has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, making it easier to press down, which may appeal to those who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing sessions. However, the bottom out force for the Glory Red is unavailable, whereas the Mini i has a bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating that it offers a more substantial feel upon fully depressing the key. This contrast makes the Mini i not only lighter in actuation but also heavier in terms of bottoming out, providing a stronger tactile feedback than the Glory Red, whose bottom out force remains unknown. Ultimately, if you enjoy a softer touch with light actuation, the Mini i is the preferable choice, while those who value a more pronounced push can consider the Glory Red, despite its lack of available bottom out data.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, we find that the Glory Red has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Mini i measures slightly shorter at 3.4 mm. This means that, for those who prioritize responsiveness, the Mini i would provide a quicker actuation due to its shorter travel distance, making it an appealing choice for gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the Glory Red, with its longer travel distance, may offer a more satisfying and pronounced typing experience for users who prefer a deeper feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference; those who enjoy the sensation of a more significant depth will likely gravitate towards the Gateron Glory Red, while those favoring quick, responsive actions may opt for the Gateron Mini i.
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 Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Glory Red linear switch is known for its smooth keystroke and quieter operation, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more subdued auditory experience while typing. Its sound signature can generally be described as less intrusive compared to tactile or clicky switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile, which is also moderately muted. This quality aligns well with environments that require minimal noise, such as office settings. Therefore, both switches offer a quieter typing experience, making them suitable for shared workspaces, though the Glory Red may be slightly less pronounced in its sonic presence.
Regarding feel, the Glory Red switch provides a smooth, effortless keystroke, ideal for users who appreciate a linear, uninterrupted pressing sensation. This switch is particularly forgiving, offering a keystroke that feels fluid, which is great for fast typing. In contrast, the Gateron Mini i switch features a more complex tactile experience characterized by a gentle tactility and mild resistance. Users can expect a bouncy and responsive feel during key presses, which delivers a satisfying tactile feedback without being overly pronounced or harsh. The Mini i’s features reduce finger fatigue during long typing sessions, presenting a comfortable experience without sacrificing responsiveness. While the Glory Red provides a seamless journey, the Mini i incorporates a tactile response that adds a nuanced layer of interaction.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch cater to different preferences while sharing qualities that make them both enjoyable choices for typing. The Glory Red is ideal for those who prioritize a smooth and quiet typing experience, while the Mini i appeals to users looking for a gentle tactile feedback in a similarly muted sound environment. When considering switch options, it's essential to think about your typing style and needs; both can deliver a satisfying experience tailored to different environments.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you prioritize a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke, where every tap feels effortless and fluid, the Glory Red is an excellent option. Its lightweight feel allows for easy actuation, making it ideal for gamers or typists who enjoy a fast-paced, seamless typing experience. However, if you work in a shared space or have a preference for tactile feedback, the Gateron Mini i shines with its gentle yet noticeable tactile feedback and neutral sound profile. Its mild resistance and snappy response offer a satisfying typing experience without being overly loud, making it suitable for long hours of comfortable typing in professional settings. In essence, choose the Glory Red for that sleek, linear experience, while the Mini i is the go-to for a balanced and subtler tactile performance.
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