Zuoce Lavender vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Lavender and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, it all comes down to personal preference. The Lavender switch is praised for its exceptional smoothness and clacky sound signature, providing a satisfying typing experience right out of the box. On the other hand, the Mini i switch offers gentle tactility and a fairly muted sound profile, making it ideal for quiet professional environments like the office. While the Lavender switch is easy-to-press and clacky, the Mini i switch is bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, neutral, snappy, subtle, and stepped. 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
48g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Zuoce Lavender and the Gateron Mini i use unique housing materials for their switches, with the Lavender featuring POM top and bottom housings, while the Mini i utilizes nylon for both components. POM is known for creating a deep and muted sound profile, which can provide a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a fuller and rounder sound when typing on switches made with this material. In terms of sound, the Lavender may offer a slightly different experience compared to the Mini i due to the differences in material properties.
Although the Zuoce Lavender and Gateron Mini i have different housing materials, they both aim to provide users with a pleasant typing experience through their unique sound profiles. The POM housings of the Lavender create a deeper sound that is relatively more muted, while the nylon housings of the Mini i elicit a fuller and rounder sound. Despite these differences, both switches are designed to offer users a satisfying typing experience with their distinct sound profiles. By choosing either switch, users can enjoy a premium typing experience tailored to their preferences.
While the Zuoce Lavender and Gateron Mini i may utilize different housing materials for their switches, the overall goal of providing a pleasing typing experience remains the same. The split between top and bottom housings in each switch allows for a balanced distribution of sound qualities when typing. The bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a stronger impact on the sound when releasing a key. Whether one prefers the deeper and muted sound of POM or the fuller and rounder sound of nylon, both switches offer a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, it is evident that the Lavender has a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Mini i's lighter force of 40 grams. On the other hand, the Lavender also requires more force to bottom out at 53 grams, while the Mini i bottoms out at 50 grams. Both switches provide a different typing experience due to their varying weight requirements. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Mini i more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the Lavender offers a slightly more substantial push feel for those seeking a medium-light typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch have a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance. The 3.4 mm travel distance for both switches ensures a consistent feel for users regardless of which switch they choose. With no difference in travel distance between the two switches, individuals can focus on other factors such as actuation force and tactile feedback when making their decision. Ultimately, users can expect a comparable typing experience when using either the Zuoce Lavender linear switch or the Gateron Mini i tactile switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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
In terms of sound, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch offers a unique clacky sound profile, characterized by a sharp and percussive sound that enhances the typing experience with a satisfying feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch provides a more neutral sound profile, suitable for various settings without being overly loud or distracting. Both switches can achieve pleasing sound results depending on the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Zuoce Lavender switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, offering minimal resistance and requiring light force to activate, ultimately reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. In contrast, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offers a bouncy sensation with a mild typing experience, providing a lively feel with gentle feedback. The mild and subtle characteristics of the Mini i switch make it approachable to a wide range of users, ensuring comfort and responsiveness while typing.
Overall, both the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Lavender switch stands out for its smoothness and distinctive clacky sound, while the Mini i switch offers a balance between gentle tactility and muted sound, suitable for office environments. Whether you prefer a more pronounced typing experience with the Lavender or a subtle and bouncy feel with the Mini i, both switches can provide satisfying results based on your personal preferences and usage scenarios.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, consider your preference for keypress smoothness and sound profile. If you value a smooth typing experience with a crisp and clacky sound, the Lavender switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a gentle tactile feedback and a more muted sound profile that is ideal for office environments, the Mini i switch would be a great fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and where you plan to use the keyboard the most. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing experiences, so choose the one that best suits your needs.
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