Gateron Glory Yellow vs. Gateron Weightlessness
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Gateron Weightlessness switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the difference between linear and tactile options can significantly affect your typing experience. The Gateron Glory Yellow switch is praised for its smooth keystroke and heavier feel, making it ideal for those who prefer a consistent and uninterrupted typing experience, particularly in fast-paced gaming or extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness switch offers a subtle to moderate tactile feedback that can enhance typing precision by providing a satisfying bump upon actuation, appealing to typists who enjoy a more interactive sensation. Both switches boast unique sound profiles that contribute to their overall appeal; the Glory Yellow is known for its smoother operation, while the Weightlessness shares a balanced acoustic signature that complements its tactile characteristics. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you prioritize the fluidity of linear feedback or the engaging tactile feedback of a tactile switch. 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
50g
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
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-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Glory Yellow and the Gateron Weightlessness switches share a commonality in their housing materials, both utilizing nylon for the top and bottom housings. This similarity indicates that users can expect a comparable typing experience with both switches, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Since nylon is a softer plastic, it effectively absorbs sound, leading to a muted auditory experience that produces a duller and rounder sound when typing. The inherent acoustic properties of nylon contribute positively to the overall sensory feedback when engaging with these switches, which can enhance the typing experience for users seeking a quieter and more pleasant interaction.
Despite their similarities, the performance of each switch may still exhibit slight variations due to factors such as stem design, spring tension, and overall manufacturing tolerances. The Glory Yellow and Weightlessness may feel subtly different when pressed, primarily influenced by these additional components. However, the fact that both switches feature identical nylon housings means that the fundamental auditory characteristics will remain consistent, providing users with a uniform sound profile whether they are using the Glory Yellow or Weightlessness. As such, anyone transitioning between these two switches is likely to enjoy a similar acoustic experience that aligns with their preferences for sound and feel while typing.
Finally, while the top and bottom housings of both switches are manufactured from nylon, the tactile feedback experienced when typing will still be significantly influenced by how each switch is engineered. The bottom housing typically has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and sensation, while the top housing influences the sound produced during release. In cases where the housing materials are the same, transitions between switches like the Gateron Glory Yellow and Gateron Weightlessness will not detract from the user experience, allowing for seamless adaptability for users familiar with either switch's properties.
Weight
Both the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch feature the same actuation force of 50 grams, making them equally responsive when it comes to triggering keystrokes. However, while the actuation force is known, both switches have an unspecified bottom out force, which complicates direct comparisons in that regard. Without this information, it's unclear how much additional force is required for these switches to bottom out. Given that their actuation forces are identical, users seeking a lighter typing experience will find both of these switches similarly accommodating. Conversely, for those who prefer a heftier feel, neither of these switches would necessarily provide the stronger push they might be looking for, as the bottom out characteristics remain unknown.
Travel distance
The Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option when compared to the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference means that users of the Glory Yellow switch will experience a more substantial key press, providing a sense of depth that some may find more satisfying or suitable for typing. Conversely, the shorter 3.4 mm travel distance of the Weightlessness switch caters to those who prefer a more responsive feel, potentially appealing to gamers seeking quicker actuation. Overall, while both switches offer unique benefits depending on user preference, the Glory Yellow is ideal for those who appreciate hearty depth, whereas the Weightlessness is designed for those who favor swiftness in their keystrokes.
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 Weightlessness has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Weightlessness for $5.50.
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
The Gateron Glory Yellow switch produces a sound that is generally considered to be quieter compared to many other linear switches, which adds to its appeal for users who prefer a more subdued auditory experience while typing. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness switch features a balanced sound profile that complements its tactile feedback, making it satisfying yet not overwhelming. It's important to note that the sound of any switch can also be influenced by external factors like the choice of keyboard case and keycaps used, which can enhance or dampen the characteristics of each switch.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Glory Yellow switch provides a smooth keystroke with a satisfying travel distance, allowing for comfortable and fluid typing. This makes it an attractive option for those who prioritize a linear switch experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness offers a tactile feel that ranges from subtle to moderate, providing just enough feedback to enhance typing without being too pronounced. The tactile nature of the Weightlessness allows users to have a better sense of when a key has been actuated, which can aid in accuracy during typing.
In summary, both the Gateron Glory Yellow and Gateron Weightlessness switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Glory Yellow appeals to those who favor a smooth and quieter linear typing experience, while the Weightlessness satisfies users looking for a balance of tactile feedback and sound profile. Each switch brings its own strengths to the table, and the ultimate choice between them will depend on personal preference. Those seeking a linear feel may gravitate toward the Glory Yellow, while those wanting a tactile touch may prefer the Weightlessness, highlighting that with the right keyboard setup, users can achieve an enjoyable typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between Gateron Glory Yellow linear switches and Gateron Weightlessness tactile switches ultimately boils down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prioritize a smooth keystroke and a pleasing travel distance, the Glory Yellow switches would likely enhance your typing experience, making them a fantastic option for fast, fluid typing and gaming. On the other hand, if you appreciate a tactile feedback while typing and prefer a subtle to moderate tactile feel, the Weightlessness switches would serve you well, especially when you want to maintain a more deliberate pace in your typing or while engaging in activities that benefit from a tactile cue. Ultimately, consider whether you value the smooth and consistent nature of the Glory Yellow or the responsive feedback from the Weightlessness; let your usage scenario guide your decision, whether it's for gaming, casual typing, or word processing.
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