Gateron Glory Yellow vs. Cherry MX Purple RGB
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Glory Yellow and Cherry MX Purple RGB stand out as popular choices, each catering to different typing preferences. The Gateron Glory Yellow, a linear switch, is celebrated for its heavier actuation and smooth keystroke, providing a satisfying travel distance that many users find enjoyable for both typing and gaming. Conversely, the Cherry MX Purple RGB, a tactile switch developed in collaboration with keyboard enthusiast Glarses, delivers a refined tactile experience characterized by a short, medium-strength bump that provides feedback with each keystroke, making it an excellent choice for typists who appreciate tactile feedback. While the Glory Yellow might appeal to those seeking a consistent and unimpeded feel, the MX Purple RGB can attract users who enjoy the satisfaction of a tactile response when typing. 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Glory Yellow and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches utilize nylon as the primary material for both their top and bottom housings, resulting in notably similar acoustic characteristics. Nylon, being a softer plastic compared to alternatives like polycarbonate, lends itself to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because the material's inherent softness allows it to absorb sound effectively, mitigating harsher frequencies that may arise with harder plastics. Consequently, users of both switches can expect a duller and rounder sound when typing, enhancing the auditory experience and contributing to the overall aesthetic pleasure of mechanical keyboards.
Despite the shared use of nylon in their housings, subtle differences may influence the overall feel and response of the switches. While both the Gateron Glory Yellow and Cherry MX Purple RGB switches have similar sound profiles due to the nylon construction, any variations in the design or internal mechanisms of the switches could result in a different tactility or feel during key presses. For instance, even minor changes in spring weight, actuation point, or internal structure can affect how users perceive the typing experience. Hence, users looking for a specific tactile feel should consider these factors, even though the sound characteristics remain regularly consistent across both models.
Ultimately, the geometrical and material composition of both the Glory Yellow and the Cherry MX Purple RGB are essential in determining their acoustic performance. Since they both embrace nylon for both the top and bottom housings, they inherently share the same benefits in terms of sound absorption and profile. Consequently, users can expect a fairly analogous auditory response and typing experience between the two. However, for those who prioritize tactile feedback or specific key actuation behavior, it is the subtle differences in design or spring tension that may lead them to favor one switch over the other, further enriching the diversity and personalization available in the realm of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation forces of the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch, the Glory Yellow requires an actuation force of 50 grams, while the MX Purple RGB has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams. This difference indicates that the Glory Yellow switch may provide a more substantial push feel during typing or gaming, which can be appealing to those who prefer a heavier switch. However, both switches have unavailable bottom out force specifications, meaning we cannot compare this aspect directly. Since the Glory Yellow has a heavier actuation force, it is likely to demand more exertion overall, making it potentially less suitable for extended typing sessions compared to the lighter Cherry MX Purple RGB, which may be more ergonomically friendly for longer periods of use. Ultimately, users seeking a lighter typing experience should consider the Cherry MX Purple RGB, while those who enjoy a heavier switch may favor the Gateron Glory Yellow.
Travel distance
The Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that when pressed down, they travel the same distance from the top to the bottom. This equal travel distance suggests that users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and depth of actuation, regardless of the switch type. Therefore, whether choosing the smooth actuation of the linear Glory Yellow or the tactile feedback of the MX Purple RGB, users will experience a consistent travel distance during use.
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 Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
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 linear switch typically produces a subdued and smooth keystroke, which contributes to a quieter typing experience overall. This switch is designed for those who prefer to minimize noise while enjoying a consistent keypress. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch has a more pronounced tactile bump which can produce a satisfying, albeit slightly louder, click sound at the point of actuation. However, sound characteristics can vary based on the specific keyboard, board construction, and keycap materials used, so the ultimate auditory experience may differ significantly between the two options.
Regarding the feel, the Gateron Glory Yellow is known for its smooth keystrokes that lack any tactile feedback, making it ideal for users who prefer an uninterrupted and fluid motion while typing or gaming. This switch provides a satisfying travel distance that many find enjoyable. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Purple RGB offers a tactile experience thanks to its defined bump, which can provide a sense of response and satisfaction during typing. This tactile feedback can be particularly appreciated by typists who enjoy the physical sensation of actuation, as it gives a clearer indication of when the key has been engaged.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron Glory Yellow and Cherry MX Purple RGB switches cater to different preferences—one focusing on smoothness and quiet operation and the other emphasizing tactile feedback—they each provide distinctive typing experiences. Choosing between them ultimately comes down to personal preference, especially regarding desired sound levels and tactile sensations.
Conclusion
In summary, choosing between the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound. If you enjoy a smooth keystroke that provides an enjoyable travel distance without any tactile feedback, the Glory Yellow switch is an excellent option, especially for fast-paced typing or gaming where fluidity is key. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more refined tactile experience with a distinct bump that offers feedback with each keystroke, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch will likely suit you better. This switch's medium-strength bump is designed for those who like to have a clearer sensation of actuation, making it ideal for typing tasks that benefit from feedback, such as coding or writing. Ultimately, your choice should be guided by whether you prefer a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke or a tactile sensation that adds depth to your typing experience.
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