Gateron Glory Yellow vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, understanding the unique characteristics of different switches can make all the difference in your typing experience. The Gateron Glory Yellow, recognized for its smooth keystroke and satisfying travel distance, is a linear switch that delivers an enjoyable and fluid typing experience, making it a great choice for gamers and fast typists who prefer an uninterrupted flow without tactile feedback. In contrast, the Gateron Mini i features a gentle tactile bump with each keystroke, offering a lightweight design that caters to those who seek comfort and subtle responsiveness during long hours of work. Its muted sound profile makes it particularly well-suited for office environments where noise reduction is key, without foregoing the satisfying feedback many typists crave. Each switch serves distinct preferences: the smoothness of the Glory Yellow for unhindered speed and the tactile feedback of the Mini i for those who appreciate a more engaged typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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
15mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Glory Yellow and the Gateron Mini i share a significant similarity in housing materials, as both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This similarity results in a like typing experience characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. The properties of nylon, being a softer plastic, enhance sound absorption compared to harder materials. As such, users can expect a sound that is duller and rounder during key presses and releases, irrespective of the specific switch they are using. This consistency in housing material contributes to a sound experience that is generally pleasant and characterized by a rich acoustic feedback.
However, while both switches utilize the same nylon material for their housings, factors such as the shape, weight, and construction could lead to variances in feel and response even with identical materials. For example, if one switch is designed with a tighter tolerance or a different stem configuration, the tactile feedback could differ, impacting the user experience. Although both switches allow for similar sound qualities through their nylon housings, it’s imperative to consider these design nuances when comparing them for overall performance in typing and gaming scenarios.
In conclusion, the shared use of nylon for the Gateron Glory Yellow and Gateron Mini i means that users will experience similar auditory characteristics when typing—specifically, the deeper and fuller sound that is typical of nylon housing. The impact of bottoming out during keystrokes will generally create a satisfying sound, enhanced by the softer nature of the material. While the core sound attributes are alike due to the materials, users should still experiment with both switches to determine personal preferences in tactile feedback and overall performance, as slight design differences may lead to a distinct feel that complements individual typing styles.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces and bottom out forces. The Glory Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Mini i has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams. This difference means that the Mini i switch is easier to press, making it a better choice for those who prefer a lighter effort for long typing sessions or gaming. However, the bottom out force for the Glory Yellow is unavailable, while the Mini i offers a bottom out force of 50 grams. This indicates that once the Mini i is pressed completely down, it requires a consistent force, contributing to a more tactile feel during typing. Consequently, the Mini i is generally the lighter switch, ideal for users who prefer a softer touch, whereas the Glory Yellow, with its higher actuation force, caters to those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, the differences are quite clear. The Glory Yellow has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a traditional depth, providing a more substantial feel when pressed. In contrast, the Mini i features a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, appealing to those who favor quicker response times, often preferred by gamers. This shorter distance can lead to a more abrupt feel for some users, while others may appreciate the responsiveness it offers. Ultimately, if you favor a more hearty typing experience, the Glory Yellow's longer 4 mm travel distance would be the better choice, while the Mini i's 3.4 mm distance caters to those seeking a quicker and more nimble response. Thus, if you prioritize depth, the Glory Yellow is the ideal option, while the Mini i excels for speed.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Glory Yellow 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 Yellow 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Glory Yellow switches are characterized by a relatively subdued auditory profile, making them suitable for various environments, much like the Mini i switches. The Mini i, however, boasts a neutral sound signature that maintains a moderate actuation force and a discreet auditory output, ensuring a quiet typing experience ideal for office settings. While both switches lack the loud clicky sounds found in other mechanical switches, the Glory Yellow may deliver a slightly more satisfying sound due to its linearity, although both are designed to keep noise levels at a minimum.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Glory Yellow switches provide a smooth keystroke with a satisfying travel distance, contributing to an enjoyable typing experience. Their linear nature ensures that there is no tactile bump, allowing for a consistent and uninterrupted pressing sensation. Conversely, the Gateron Mini i switches offer gentle tactility, creating a bouncy, lively feel while requiring minimal force to actuate. Their design focuses on long-term comfort, reducing finger fatigue and promoting an effortless typing experience. The Mini i's feedback can be described as mild yet responsive, making for a gentle yet engaging typing feel.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron Glory Yellow and Gateron Mini i switches cater to different preferences in terms of feel and sound, they share a commitment to providing a comfortable typing experience. The Glory Yellow excels in delivering a smooth, linear feel with a pleasing sound, while the Mini i strikes a balance between subtle tactility and a muted auditory profile. Depending on your priorities—whether you prefer a smoother keystroke or an engaging tactile sensation—both switches can deliver satisfactory results, making them suitable options for newcomers in the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch ultimately hinges on your specific typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you favor a smooth keystroke and appreciate a heavier feel without the distraction of noise, the Glory Yellow is an excellent choice, especially for gaming or dedicated typing tasks where precision and uninterrupted performance matter. Its fluid action can enhance your experience during intense sessions where speed and responsiveness are key. On the other hand, if you tend to type for extended periods, especially in an office environment or shared space, the Gateron Mini i would better suit your needs. With its gentle tactile feedback, easy actuation, and a more subdued sound profile, it promotes a comfortable and professional atmosphere, reducing finger fatigue while still providing satisfying feedback with each key press. In the end, your personal preference for either a smooth, rapid keystroke or a tactile, responsive feel will guide you in selecting the switch that enhances your typing experience the most.
Mentioned in this article
