Gateron Glory Yellow vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear stand out as compelling options, each offering unique characteristics tailored for different user preferences. The Glory Yellow is celebrated for its heavier feel within the Glory lineup, which translates to a smooth keystroke and a satisfying travel distance, making it an excellent choice for typists who enjoy a more substantial feedback during their typing sessions. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear is recognized for its innovative design that combines a whisper-quiet topping-out sound with a clacky bottom-out sound, providing a unique auditory experience. Its silky smooth typing feel—without being excessively polished—appeals to those who seek a balance between tranquility and tactile feedback. Both switches cater to users who favor linear switches but prioritize different aspects of their typing experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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 housing materials of the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches present an interesting comparison, particularly in their top housings. The Glory Yellow employs nylon for its top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition. This characteristic makes nylon a favorable option for those seeking a more muted auditory experience while typing. In contrast, the Semi-Silent Linear features a polycarbonate top housing that yields a sharper and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate’s stiffer nature results in a more resonant quality, allowing it to project sound more clearly. Consequently, users opting for the Jwick switch will experience a different auditory dynamic compared to those using the Gateron switch, highlighting a key difference due to the materials used in the top housing.
When assessing the bottom housings of both switches, the situation changes. Both the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This commonality means that users will experience similar qualities in terms of sound absorption and feel. The nylon material helps to create a duller and rounder sound profile, providing an overall deep auditory experience. Since both switches share this element, they will likely feel more comparable in terms of the bottom-out sound and sensation when and if users press down on the keys, irrespective of the differing top housings.
Ultimately, the contrasting top housings of the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, combined with their shared nylon bottom housings, offer a unique typing experience. Users can expect clearer, sharper auditory feedback from the Semi-Silent Linear and a muted, fuller sound from the Glory Yellow when the top surfaces come into play. However, the bottom housings converge on the softer, sound-absorbing characteristics of nylon, unifying the experience at the moment of bottoming out. This interplay illustrates how the housing materials interact within mechanical switches, influencing everything from sound profiles to tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch with a known actuation force of 50 grams and an unknown bottom out force, to the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 62 grams, notable differences in their characteristics emerge. The Glory Yellow is designed to provide a lighter typing experience, beneficial for those who type for extended periods, reducing fatigue during long work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Semi-Silent Linear's bottom out force of 62 grams implies a heavier feel, which might be preferred by users looking for a more substantial typing experience. While the actuation force of the Jwick switch remains unspecified, its heavier bottom out force suggests a more pronounced resistance at the end of the key press compared to the known lighter actuation of the Glory Yellow. Consequently, users who prioritize comfort in prolonged use may lean towards the Glory Yellow, while those seeking a firmer tactile feedback may find the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear more appealing due to its heavier bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Gateron Glory Yellow features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it a more traditional option that offers a deeper feel when pressed. In contrast, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. While the difference may seem minimal, it can significantly influence the typing experience. Gamers might appreciate the responsiveness of the Semi-Silent Linear due to its shorter travel distance, which allows for quicker actuation. However, those who prefer a more substantial tactile experience may lean towards the Glory Yellow, as it provides that extra depth that some users find preferable. Therefore, the Gateron Glory Yellow is the longer switch, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear is the shorter option.
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 switch is generally characterized by a sound profile that is neutral, providing a moderate sound experience suitable for both casual and serious typing. Its audible feedback is balanced, making it versatile enough for different environments, whether at home or in the office. In contrast, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a unique auditory experience with its semi-silent designation. While it boasts a whisper-quiet topping-out sound, it still provides a clacky bottom-out sound, giving users a satisfying auditory cue without being overwhelming. The subdued quality of the switch adds a layer of sophistication, making it more suitable for users who prefer less distraction while typing. Overall, the sound profiles of both switches cater to different preferences, with the Glory Yellow providing a more neutral tone and the Semi-Silent Linear balancing quietness with feedback.
In terms of feel, the Glory Yellow switch is noted for providing a smooth keystroke that facilitates an enjoyable typing journey. Although it may not have specific descriptors mentioned, the emphasis on a satisfying travel distance suggests a well-rounded typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear excels in its tactile characteristics, offering a mild, snappy, buttery, and polished feel. With its gentle typing experience and responsive nature, it ensures that each keystroke feels lively and smooth without being overly aggressive. The combination of these qualities makes the Semi-Silent Linear appealing to users seeking a refined and engaging typing feel, while the Glory Yellow remains a solid choice for those who appreciate a straightforward, smooth experience.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches provide distinct qualities that cater to different typing preferences. The Glory Yellow delivers a neutral sound profile and a smooth keystroke, making it a reliable choice for various settings. Meanwhile, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear stands out with its subdued sound and a more intricate feel that blends mildness with responsiveness. Ultimately, depending on your priorities—be it sound or typing experience—you can choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences; however, both options will deliver satisfactory results in their respective niches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron Glory Yellow switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, the decision ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you desire a switch that emphasizes a smooth keystroke with a pleasing travel distance, the Glory Yellow could be your ideal choice, especially if you are looking for a lighter feel and a satisfying typing experience. However, if you find yourself typing in settings where minimizing noise is crucial—like shared workspaces or cozy home environments—the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear might be better suited for you. Its mild and snappy response delivers a buttery smooth experience while ensuring that the sound produced is softer and more subdued without sacrificing the satisfying bottom-out feedback. Thus, for a balance of performance and noise control, particularly if you enjoy a more refined typing experience, go with the Semi-Silent Linear. Ultimately, consider how each switch aligns with your typing habits and your surrounding environment to find the perfect match for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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