Gateron Glory Red vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Glory Red and Gateron Zero Degree 0° offer distinct experiences tailored to different user preferences. The Glory Red switch is celebrated for its lightweight design, providing a smooth keystroke and an optimal travel distance that enhances the overall typing experience. This switch is ideal for those who prioritize a responsive feel while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° stands out with its unique self-padding design and dual-rail structure, which not only ensures quiet operation but also delivers exceptional smoothness and stability. This switch is perfect for users seeking a silent typing environment without compromising on the tactile experience. Both switches cater to distinct needs—speed and responsiveness versus noise reduction and comfort. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.

By the numbers

Gateron Glory Red Linear

Gateron Zero Degree 0° Linear

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

$6.50

$5.50 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Glory Red and Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches, distinct differences in sound profiles and tactile experiences emerge. The top housing of the Glory Red employs nylon, a material renowned for its ability to absorb sound rather than amplify it. This characteristic results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, enhancing the typing experience with a softer, more muted auditory feedback. In contrast, the Zero Degree 0° utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which contributes to a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffer nature allows it to resonate more clearly, resulting in a crisper auditory feedback when keys are released. This variance in material directly influences the overall typing experience, making each switch more appealing to different preferences in sound quality.

Despite their differing top housing materials, both switches share nylon as their bottom housing material, which grounds them in a common auditory experience. The nylon bottom housing in both switches plays a pivotal role in defining the bottom-out sound and feel of each keypress. Since nylon absorbs sound, it contributes to a fuller and deeper auditory feedback when the keys are fully pressed down. This similarity in bottom housing material means that while the top housings create contrasting sound profiles, the bottom-out experience remains relatively consistent, providing a muted yet rich sound regardless of whether it’s the Glory Red or the Zero Degree 0° being used. The tactile sensation felt at the bottom of the stroke—where outright key presses culminate—will echo the same inherent qualities due to this shared use of nylon.

Ultimately, these differences and similarities in material choice contribute to the overall appeal and functionality of each switch. The contrasted top housing materials dictate a distinct auditory feedback when keys are released, granting users a choice based on their preference for sound—duller and more rounded with the Glory Red, versus brighter and more distinct with the Zero Degree 0°. However, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures that they retain some commonality, allowing typists to experience a similar bottom-out sound and feel. Consequently, regardless of which switch one might choose, the tactile experience at the culmination of each keystroke remains cohesive, allowing users to find satisfaction in both models while still experiencing unique auditory profiles that cater to different tastes.

Weight

Both the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch have identical actuation forces of 45 grams. This means that both switches require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke, providing a consistent typing experience in that regard. However, the bottom out forces for both switches are unavailable, which leaves a gap in comparing how they feel when pressed all the way down. Since the actuation forces are the same, users can expect similar tactile feedback when typing or gaming. In terms of weight, since both switches have the same actuation force, they can be considered equal in terms of how light or heavy they feel. Thus, individuals seeking a lighter touch for prolonged typing or gaming may find either option suitable, while those who prefer a heavier push feel may need to look for alternatives.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch feature the same travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning that users will experience the same amount of key travel when pressing down on either switch. This equal travel distance allows for a consistent feel and tactile response, making both switches suitable for users who prefer linear action and similar keypress experiences. Since the travel distances are identical, switching between the two will yield comparable results in terms of key feel and performance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Glory Red switch produces a satisfying yet relatively standard keystroke sound typical for linear switches. This auditory feedback is subtle but noticeable, making it ideal for those who enjoy the traditional mechanical keyboard experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch is designed specifically for silent operation. Its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure significantly dampen noise, allowing for nearly silent keystrokes. While both switches may offer different auditory experiences, factors such as your choice of keyboard plate and keycaps can also influence the overall sound profile.

When it comes to feel, the Gateron Glory Red switch is lauded for its smooth and pleasant keystroke, featuring a travel distance that many users find comfortable. This provides an enjoyable typing experience for those who favor a linear feel. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch emphasizes a soft, elastic sensation due to its unique construction, enhancing the overall smoothness and stability of the keystroke. The self-padding design contributes to a more muted bottom-out feel, making it particularly appealing for users seeking a cushioned experience with minimal noise.

Overall, both the Gateron Glory Red and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switches cater to different priorities in the typing experience. The Glory Red offers a traditional sound and smooth feel that appeals to many traditionalists, while the Zero Degree 0° delivers a nearly silent experience with exceptional cushioning and stability. While you can expect to enjoy certain core qualities like smoothness with both switches, the differences in sound and feel highlight the unique advantages of each option, allowing you to choose based on your specific preferences.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch largely depends on your specific typing preferences and environment. If you enjoy a smooth keystroke with a satisfying travel distance and prefer an engaging, traditional typing experience, then the Glory Red is likely the better choice for you. This switch provides a delightful tactile feedback that enhances your interaction with the keyboard, making it ideal for those who type frequently throughout the day. On the other hand, if you're looking for a quieter operation, perhaps for a shared workspace or late-night gaming sessions, the Zero Degree 0° switch shines with its innovative design. It offers exceptional sound dampening and a soft, elastic feel that creates a whisper-quiet experience without sacrificing smoothness or stability. Ultimately, selecting the right switch comes down to whether you prioritize the tactile enjoyment of typing or the need for silence and distraction-free environments. Consider your daily use case, and choose the switch that aligns best with your needs.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Glory Red Linear

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Zero Degree 0° Linear

$6.50

$5.50 per 10

Learn more