Gateron Glory Red vs. Cherry MX Orange
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Red and the Cherry MX Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, two notable options come to the forefront: the Gateron Glory Red and the Cherry MX Orange switches. The Gateron Glory Red switches are celebrated for their lighter touch and smooth keystrokes, offering a satisfying travel distance that enhances the overall typing experience. As a linear switch, it excels in fast-paced gaming and typing sessions, allowing for quick actuation without the distraction of tactile feedback. Conversely, the Cherry MX Orange switches, revamped from their classic origins, combine Cherry’s renowned craftsmanship with modern enhancements for a balanced performance that caters to gamers and typists alike. They provide a slightly heavier actuation force compared to the Glory Red, making them an excellent choice for those who prefer a more substantial feel while ensuring silent operation with their linear design. Ultimately, both switches have unique qualities tailored to different preferences; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
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
4.00 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Glory Red switches and the Cherry MX Orange switches, it becomes evident that both switches feature nylon as their primary housing material. This shared characteristic leads to several similarities in the typist's experience. Nylon is known for its acoustic properties, particularly its ability to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. As a result, users of both Gateron and Cherry MX switches can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile, characterized by a duller and rounder auditory feedback. This makes both switches favorable for users seeking a quieter typing experience, as the nylon material dampens sound reverberations, thereby promoting a more subdued acoustical environment.
Despite both the Glory Red and MX Orange switches employing nylon for their top and bottom housings, it is important to consider the nuances brought forth by their individual designs. Each switch may have slightly different characteristics due to variations in stem construction, spring tension, and overall assembly. However, the fundamental acoustic qualities induced by the nylon material remain consistent across both brands. Thus, users will experience similar sound profiles regardless of which switch they opt for. If a consumer values the softer sound produced by the nylon construction, the decision may ultimately come down to personal preference for actuation feel or tactile feedback rather than the specifics of the housing material itself.
In the context of how the different housings influence the typing experience, the impact of the bottom and top housings cannot be overlooked. The bottom housing of each switch significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing contributes more to the sound produced when a key is released. Since both the Gateron Glory Red and Cherry MX Orange switches utilize nylon in both top and bottom housings, their acoustic attributes will blend in a way that defines the total typing experience. Consequently, whether one opts for Gateron or Cherry MX, the user is likely to encounter a compellingly similar sound profile due to the properties of the nylon material, making the choice less about material and more about the individual preferences in tactile feedback and switch responsiveness.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Glory Red and Cherry MX Orange linear switches, the primary distinction lies in their actuation forces. The Glory Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it more ideal for users who prefer a softer touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange features a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, catering to those who favor a more substantial tactile response while typing. Unfortunately, the bottom out forces for both switches are unavailable, which means we cannot make a direct comparison regarding how these switches feel when fully pressed down. However, due to the differences in actuation forces, users will generally find that the Gateron Glory Red offers a lighter overall experience, whereas the Cherry MX Orange delivers a firmer push, appealing to those who enjoy a sturdier feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, the differences are quite notable. The Gateron Glory Red has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it a shorter option than the Cherry MX Orange, which features a travel distance of 4 mm. This distinction plays a significant role in user experience; gamers who seek quicker response times might lean towards the shorter 3.6 mm travel of the Gateron Glory Red for enhanced agility, whereas those who appreciate a more substantial keystroke feedback may prefer the deeper 4 mm travel of the Cherry MX Orange. Overall, while both switches offer distinct characteristics, the Gateron Glory Red's shorter travel distance could provide a more responsive feel, whereas the Cherry MX Orange could cater to those desiring a more tactile experience.
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 Cherry MX Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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, while the specifics for the Gateron Glory Red are not provided, linear switches like the Glory Red generally produce a quieter keystroke compared to tactile or clicky switches. The Cherry MX Orange also echoes this trait, being designed to minimize sound during typing. This means that both switches are likely to offer a relatively subdued auditory experience, making them suitable for quieter environments. However, the exact sound profile can still be influenced by the choice of the keyboard board and the keycaps used.
Regarding feel, the Gateron Glory Red is noted for its smooth keystroke and pleasing travel distance, which contributes to an enjoyable typing sensation. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange is reissued from the original MX Orange range and may feature enhancements aimed at improving the overall tactile experience. While both switches are designed to deliver a satisfying typing experience, the Glory Red excels in its smoothness while the MX Orange may offer a slightly different tactile feedback due to its historical background and enhancements.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Glory Red and Cherry MX Orange linear switches present characteristics that cater to users seeking a smooth and quiet typing experience. While the Glory Red focuses on delivering a lightweight and seamless keystroke, the MX Orange draws on its legacy with improvements that heighten user satisfaction. Choosing between them will largely depend on personal preference, as both are designed to provide comfortable and enjoyable typing experiences. If you appreciate smoothness and reduced sound in your typing, you can expect to achieve similar results with either switch.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between Gateron Glory Red linear switches and Cherry MX Orange linear switches, your personal preferences and usage scenarios will greatly influence your decision. If you prioritize a smooth keystroke with a lighter touch for gaming or rapid typing sessions, the Gateron Glory Red might be the ideal choice for you, as it delivers an enjoyable and efficient feel with a pleasing travel distance. However, if you seek a switch that embodies a more tactile experience with enhanced durability and reliability, the Cherry MX Orange could serve you well, as it has been reissued to meet high demand and offers a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you value a lighter, smooth stroke for fast-paced actions or a slightly more tactile feedback for a grounded typing experience.
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