Zuoce Lavender vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Lavender and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Zuoce Lavender and the Gateron Type L are both excellent options to consider. The Lavender is praised for its exceptional smoothness and crisp, clacky sound, providing a satisfying typing experience right out of the box. On the other hand, the Type L stands out for being the lightest in its series, requiring only 45g to bottom out, and offering a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum. While the Lavender is categorized as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Clacky', the Type L is described as 'Neutral', 'Subdued', 'Feathery', and 'Easy-to-press'. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Zuoce Lavender and the Gateron Type L both excel in providing a satisfying sound profile for typing enthusiasts, although they achieve this through different housing materials. The Lavender's POM top and bottom housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, giving the user a unique typing experience. In contrast, the Type L's nylon top and bottom housing produces a fuller and rounder sound profile, thanks to nylon's softer properties that absorb more sound. While both switches offer a pleasing sound, the Lavender's POM housing tends to be quieter and more subdued compared to the Type L's nylon housing.
Despite their different housing materials, the Zuoce Lavender and the Gateron Type L share similar qualities in terms of providing a distinct tactile typing experience. The split qualities between the top and bottom housing of a switch allow users to feel the impact of the bottom housing when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Both switches prioritize creating a deep and satisfying sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience for users. Whether it's the POM housing of the Lavender or the nylon housing of the Type L, typists can expect a premium feel and sound with either switch.
In conclusion, while the Zuoce Lavender and the Gateron Type L have different housing materials, they both offer a premium typing experience with unique sound profiles. The Lavender's POM housing provides a quieter and more muted sound, ideal for those who prefer a subtler typing experience. On the other hand, the Type L's nylon housing delivers a fuller and rounder sound, enhancing the tactile feedback for users. Depending on personal preferences, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that contribute to a satisfying typing experience, making them popular choices among keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, it becomes evident that the Type L is the lighter option, with an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. On the other hand, the Lavender is slightly heavier, with an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams. The difference in weight between the two switches can significantly impact the typing experience for users. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Type L more comfortable for extended typing sessions, while users who enjoy a more substantial feel may lean towards the Lavender. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, but the slight variation in actuation and bottom out forces can make a notable difference in typing feel and comfort.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the Gateron Type L linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Lavender offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Type L provides a deeper key press, which some users may prefer for a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of responsiveness and key press depth. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on individual typing or gaming preferences.
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 Type L comes in at $4.70 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 stands out for its clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and percussive typing experience that is both satisfying and engaging. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L linear switch offers a more subdued and neutral sound, leaning towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum. The Lavender switch will give you a crisp and bright sound, while the Type L switch provides a gentler and more subtle typing experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch is known for being easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force enhances the typing experience by reducing finger fatigue and providing a low-impact typing feel. In contrast, the Gateron Type L linear switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, ensuring that typing is effortless and comfortable even during extended sessions such as gaming or work.
Overall, both the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a clacky and crisp typing experience with easy-to-press switches, the Lavender might be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued and neutral sound profile with a feathery feel, the Type L could be the ideal option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style, as both switches are designed to enhance your overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Zuoce Lavender and the Gateron Type L linear switches, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize smoothness and a satisfying clacky sound signature, the Lavender switch with its medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams and a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum, the Gateron Type L switch could be more suitable. Additionally, if you seek an easy-to-press experience that reduces finger fatigue, both switches offer that quality, with the Lavender switch providing a gentle resistance and the Type L switch being exceptionally light to press. Ultimately, your decision should align with your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and actuation force.
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