Gateron Mini i vs. Cherry MX Black
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Cherry MX Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Mini i and Cherry MX Black offer distinct experiences for users. The Gateron Mini i provides a gentle tactile feedback in each keystroke, making it ideal for quiet and comfortable typing sessions in office settings. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black boasts a classic textured smoothness with a deep sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a more traditional typing experience. While the Gateron Mini i is bouncy, easy-to-press, and subtle, the Cherry MX Black is low-pitched, textured, and stiff. 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
40g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Mini i and the Cherry MX Black both feature nylon top and bottom housings, making them similar in terms of material used for the housing construction. Both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the nylon material's ability to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on either switch, creating a satisfying auditory experience for users. With the nylon housing, both switches provide a tactile and responsive feel, enhancing the overall typing experience.
While both the Gateron Mini i and the Cherry MX Black utilize nylon for their housing materials, the key difference may lie in their design and construction. The specific shape and internal components of each switch can affect how the housing material interacts with the overall switch mechanism. Despite this, users can expect a similar typing experience with either switch due to the shared nylon material used for both the top and bottom housings. The tactile feedback and sound profile produced by the nylon housing will contribute to a satisfying typing experience, regardless of minor variations in design.
In terms of functionality, the Gateron Mini i and the Cherry MX Black offer similar performance due to their shared nylon housing material. The nylon construction helps to dampen sound and provide a more stable typing experience, making these switches ideal for those seeking a quieter yet tactile response. While there may be subtle differences in the feel and sound between the two switches, the use of nylon for both the top and bottom housings ensures that users will experience a consistent level of quality and performance in their typing tasks. Ultimately, both switches are a solid choice for those looking for a reliable and enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Cherry MX Black linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams. Additionally, the Gateron Mini i has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Cherry MX Black has a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams. This means that the Gateron Mini i will require less force to type, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions where fatigue is a concern. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter than the Cherry MX Black linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The difference in travel distance between the two switches may result in a slightly quicker response time with the Mini i, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for faster key presses. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the MX Black may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00, whereas the Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00.
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 Gateron Mini i tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for various environments, including both home and office settings. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black linear switch provides a low-pitched sound that is more mellow and bass-heavy in nature. Both switches offer a different auditory experience, with the Mini i being more moderate while the MX Black leans towards a deeper tone.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, subtle, and stepped, providing a range of tactile sensations that cater to different preferences. In contrast, the Cherry MX Black linear switch is characterized as textured and stiff, offering a more noticeable friction when pressed and requiring a higher amount of force to actuate. These differences in feel cater to individuals who prefer specific tactile feedback and typing experiences.
Overall, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Mini i provides a balanced sound profile and a variety of tactile sensations, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a gentle typing experience. On the other hand, the MX Black offers a deeper sound profile and a more textured feel, catering to users who prefer a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, both switches excel in their respective qualities, providing users with distinct options to suit their preferences in mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In choosing between the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you are looking for a lightweight, bouncy, and easy-to-press switch with a subtle sound profile, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch may be the perfect fit for your office or quiet workspace. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier switch with a low-pitched sound profile and a textured feel, the Cherry MX Black linear switch might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are seeking. Consider factors such as actuation force, sound profile, and feel to determine which switch aligns best with your needs.
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