Gateron Mini i vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Mini i, a tactile switch, and the Gateron Type A, a linear switch. The Mini i is praised for its gentle tactility, providing a subtle feedback in each keystroke while maintaining a fairly muted sound profile suitable for office environments. On the other hand, the Type A stands out for its innovative design and deeper sound signature, appealing to users looking for a medium-weight switch. While the Mini i offers a comfortable typing experience with minimal noise, the Type A brings a unique feel and sound to the table. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
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
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Mini i and the Gateron Type A utilize nylon as the material for both their top and bottom switch housings. This means that regardless of the specific model you choose, you can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback. The use of nylon in both the top and bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in housing materials ensures consistency in the overall typing experience between the two switches.
However, despite having the same nylon housing material for both the top and bottom housings, the Gateron Mini i and Gateron Type A may still offer slightly different typing experiences due to other internal components such as the stem or spring. While the housing material plays a significant role in the sound profile and feel of a switch, the internal components can also impact the overall typing experience. It's important to consider these factors when choosing between the Mini i and Type A switches, as they may contribute to subtle differences in sound and tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Gateron Mini i and the Gateron Type A share the same nylon housing material for both their top and bottom housings, resulting in a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. The use of nylon in the housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, making both switches ideal for those looking for a quieter and more rounded typing experience. While other internal components may impact the overall typing experience, the housing material plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of the switch. Ultimately, the choice between the Mini i and Type A may come down to personal preference and specific typing needs.
Weight
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Gateron Type A linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Mini i requires 50 grams, while the Type A needs 55 grams. This means that the Mini i is overall lighter in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Type A. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Mini i, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue, while those who seek a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Type A. Both switches provide similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out force, offering a consistent typing experience for users. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on individual preferences for keypress resistance.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Mini i tactile switch is 3.4 mm, while the Gateron Type A linear switch has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Mini i offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Type A switch provides a deeper press, which some users may prefer for a more substantial feel. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Mini i being slightly shorter than the Type A. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00, whereas the Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70.
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, both the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch fall under a neutral sound profile category, offering a moderate sound experience suitable for various environments. The Mini i has a slightly more muted sound, providing a quiet yet satisfying typing experience ideal for office settings. In contrast, the Type A leans towards a deeper sound spectrum with a subdued sound signature, offering a more subtle typing experience. Ultimately, the sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch is characterized by a bouncy and easy-to-press sensation, providing a lively and responsive typing experience with minimal force required for activation. The mild and subtle qualities of the Mini i ensure a comfortable typing feel that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, information about the feel of the Gateron Type A linear switch is currently unknown. However, based on the known qualities of Gateron switches, it can be inferred that the Type A may provide a medium-weight typing experience with a focus on smooth linear keypresses.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Mini i provides a more gentle and muted sound profile with bouncy and easy-to-press keypresses, the Type A may offer a deeper sound spectrum with a medium-weight typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience, ensuring that users can achieve their preferred sound and feel when selecting either of these Gateron switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, you would want to choose the Gateron Mini i tactile switch if you are looking for a lightweight switch with gentle tactility and a fairly muted sound profile, ideal for quiet and professional environments like the office. On the other hand, you would opt for the Gateron Type A linear switch if you prefer a medium-weight switch with a sound signature leaning towards the deeper side of the spectrum, making it suitable for various typing preferences. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches should depend on your desired typing experience and environment.
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