Gateron Mini i vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Mini i and Gateron Type S stand out as popular choices with distinct characteristics. The Mini i is favored for its gentle tactility and fairly muted sound profile, making it an ideal option for quiet and comfortable typing in professional settings. On the other hand, the Type S offers a weightier keystroke and a sound signature that leans towards a deeper acoustic experience. While the Mini i is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Snappy', 'Subtle', and 'Stepped', the Type S falls under the categories of 'Neutral' and 'Subdued'. These general pointers can help you decide which switch might suit your preferences, 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
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Mini i and the Gateron Type S are both made of nylon, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use this material. Therefore, both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality and feel due to their identical nylon housing materials.
However, where the Mini i and the Type S differ is in the arrangement of the housing materials. While the Mini i has both its top and bottom housing made of nylon, the Type S may have a different material for its bottom housing, potentially impacting the sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing of a switch is more significant in determining the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when a key is released. This difference in housing materials between the Mini i and Type S could result in subtle variations in the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Gateron Mini i and the Gateron Type S play a crucial role in shaping the sound and feel of the switches. Both switches utilize nylon, a soft plastic that absorbs sound and creates a deeper and fuller typing experience. The use of nylon in both the top and bottom housing of the Mini i ensures consistency in sound quality and feel, while potential variations in the Type S's housing materials could lead to subtle differences in the typing experience. Overall, the choice between the Mini i and Type S may come down to personal preference in terms of typing sound, feel, and any subtle nuances that may result from different housing materials.
Weight
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Gateron Type S linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Mini i requires 50 grams to bottom out, while the Type S needs 65 grams, making it heavier as well. This means that the Mini i will provide a lighter and easier typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a more effortless keystroke. In contrast, the Type S will offer a more substantial and tactile typing experience, ideal for users who enjoy a stronger push feel when typing. Overall, the Mini i is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force, while the Type S is heavier, providing differing options for users based on their preference for typing force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, it is evident that the Mini i has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Type S's 4 mm. The Mini i's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Type S's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a deeper press. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of travel distance, with the Mini i being the shorter option and the Type S being the longer option. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences for key response and 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 S 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
In terms of sound, both the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they offer a moderate sound experience that is suitable for various environments, whether it be at home or in a professional setting. However, the Type S also features a subdued sound signature, providing a more dampened and subtle acoustic experience compared to most switches. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch is described as being bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, subtle, and stepped. These qualities indicate that the Mini i offers a lively and responsive typing experience with gentle resistance and a light typing feel, making it suitable for long hours of comfortable typing without causing finger fatigue. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S linear switch does not have specific feel descriptors provided. However, based on its 65g bottom-out weight and contemporary factory lube techniques, it can be inferred that the Type S offers a weightier keystroke experience with a rejuvenated feel.
Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Mini i tactile switch provides a gentle tactility, muted sound profile, and lightweight feel ideal for office environments requiring quiet professionalism. In contrast, the Gateron Type S linear switch presents a weightier key feel with a pleasingly balanced and subdued sound signature, thanks to its contemporary factory lubing techniques. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience that is sure to enhance your overall keyboarding experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a lightweight switch with gentle tactility and a quiet typing experience for long hours of use in an office environment, then the Gateron Mini i would be a suitable choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a weightier keystroke, a neutral yet deeper acoustic experience, and a dampened sound profile, the Gateron Type S might be more to your liking. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preference for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel, so consider these aspects carefully when making your decision.
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