Gateron Mars vs. Cherry MX Purple RGB
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mars and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Mars and the Cherry MX Purple RGB both offer unique experiences that cater to different typing preferences. The Gateron Mars is a linear switch, celebrated for its smooth keystrokes and quiet operation, primarily appealing to gamers and those who appreciate rapid key presses without tactile interruptions. Its innovative design, featuring a POK stem paired with a durable blend of Nylon and POM housing, ensures both longevity and reliability. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch stands out as a tactile option, providing a defined bump during each keystroke that enhances typing feedback—an enticing characteristic for typists and gamers alike who crave a more pronounced connection to their keystrokes. This switch also boasts customizable RGB lighting, adding a visual flair to any setup. While both options have their distinct advantages, deciding between a linear and a tactile feel can be pivotal in shaping your overall keyboard 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Mars and Cherry MX Purple RGB switches both incorporate nylon in their top housing, which is a well-regarded material known for its sound quality and acoustic properties. As specified for both switches, nylon's composition leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is due to nylon's softer plastic characteristics, which contribute to sound absorption, creating a duller and rounder auditory experience. Typing on either switch would elicit similar responses in terms of sound quality because they share the same top housing material, thereby ensuring a consistent performance in that regard.
However, a notable distinction arises in the bottom housing materials used by each switch. The Gateron Mars opts for a POM (Polyoxymethylene) bottom housing, which is known to produce a unique and pleasing sound profile that leans towards the deeper side, while also providing a more muted typing experience. This contributes a specific tactile response and sound quality that enhances the overall feel of the switch. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB features nylon as its bottom housing material as well. As with the top housing, the use of nylon here results in a sound profile similar to that of the Mars; however, it may not achieve the same level of uniqueness found in the Mars due to the differences in material properties.
In summary, while both switches demonstrate similarities in their upper housing materials—facilitating a comparable acoustic experience in terms of sound quality—their bottom housings distinguish them significantly. The Gateron Mars draws from POM's acoustic attributes to enrich its sound and tactile feedback, whereas the Cherry MX Purple RGB relies on nylon for consistency and reliability. Consequently, this variation suggests that while users may experience similar auditory results from the top housing, the distinct bottom housing materials play a crucial role in the overall typing experience, with the Gateron Mars offering a nuanced and muted sound compared to the more straightforward attributes found in the Cherry MX Purple RGB.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Mars linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch, both switches exhibit an actuation force of 45 grams, indicating they require the same amount of force to register a keystroke. However, the bottom out force for both switches remains unavailable, preventing a direct comparison in that regard. Given their identical actuation force, users will likely experience a similar typing resistance when pressing the keys. As both switches have the same actuation force, neither is classified as lighter or heavier in this aspect; thus, either choice would be suitable for users who prefer a moderate force for prolonged usage, whether for work or gaming. However, the lack of data on the bottom out force for both switches means we cannot determine how they feel when pressed all the way down, which could influence the overall tactile experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mars linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, whereas the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Mars switch the shorter option, which can be advantageous for gamers seeking quicker response times and a more immediate feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the MX Purple, with its deeper 4 mm travel distance, may appeal to those who prefer the tactile feedback of a switch that provides more depth and resistance. Ultimately, if you're looking for a snappier keypress, the Gateron Mars would be the better choice, while those who appreciate a more pronounced travel may lean towards the Cherry MX Purple RGB.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Mars has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mars for $5.50.
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 Mars linear switch tends to produce a smooth, subdued acoustic profile that is less pronounced compared to traditional tactile switches. This makes it an appealing choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience, allowing for a discreet operation. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch features a more audible sound signature due to its tactile bump, which tends to produce a notable click during activation. This distinct auditory feedback can be satisfying for users who enjoy auditory cues while typing, giving a more engaging experience. Ultimately, both switches can deliver satisfying sound characteristics, but the Mars leans towards a quieter operation while the MX Purple RGB emphasizes a more pronounced sound.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Mars linear switch offers an incredibly smooth keystroke, with a consistent actuation throughout its travel. This allows for a pleasant typing sensation, especially favored by gamers and typists who enjoy a fluid experience without any tactile interruptions. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch provides a clearly defined tactile bump that activates earlier in the keypress, offering immediate feedback that many find satisfying. The tactile response of the MX Purple RGB can enhance typing confidence, making it a favored option for those who enjoy a more interactive typing feel. Consequently, the Mars is ideal for smooth, uninterrupted keystrokes, while the MX Purple RGB shines with its tactile engagement.
In summary, the Gateron Mars linear switch and Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch both present distinct qualities that cater to different user preferences. The Mars offers a smooth and quiet typing experience, making it suitable for environments requiring minimal noise, while the MX Purple RGB delivers a pronounced tactile feedback and audible clicks for users who appreciate engaging and responsive interactions. Understanding these characteristics allows newcomers to choose a switch that aligns with their specific typing or gaming needs, and both switches, though differing in sound and feel, can yield fulfilling typing experiences based on individual preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Mars linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and intended use. If you appreciate a smooth and uninterrupted keypress without tactile feedback, the Gateron Mars might be your go-to option. Its innovative design aims to provide a distinctly fluid typing experience, ideal for those who prioritize speed and efficiency, such as gamers or typists who favor rapid keystrokes. On the other hand, if you find joy in the tactile feedback of a middle ground bump that offers a satisfying response during use, the Cherry MX Purple RGB would be a better fit for you. This switch caters to those who enjoy a more pronounced typing sensation while still allowing for a smooth return to the resting position, making it a great choice for both gamers and typists who appreciate that tactile feedback. Therefore, carefully consider whether you prefer a linear, smooth experience or a tactile, feedback-rich typing session, as this will guide you to the switch that aligns best with your mechanical keyboard journey.
Mentioned in this article
