Cherry MX Brown vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Brown and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Brown and the Gateron Type A mechanical keyboard switches, one can immediately notice the distinct differences in their characteristics. The MX Brown is praised for its subtle tactility and light typing experience, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a more gentle keypress. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A stands out for its innovative design, offering a medium-weight switch with deeper sound feedback. While the MX Brown is known for its textured and low-pitched feel, the Type A is categorized as neutral and subdued. If you are looking for a switch that provides a delicate typing experience, the Cherry MX Brown may be the right choice for you. However, if you prefer a switch with a deeper sound profile and medium weight, the Gateron Type A could be the ideal option. Nonetheless, let's delve deeper into the specifics of each switch to help you make an informed decision based on your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Cherry MX Brown and Gateron Type A switches feature nylon top and bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption compared to harder plastics, ultimately creating a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in housing materials between the two switches ensures that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile.
However, while both switches share the same nylon housing material, differences may arise in the overall feel and sound of the switches due to potential variations in design and construction. The impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, as well as the influence of the top housing on the sound when releasing a key, may subtly differ between the Cherry MX Brown and Gateron Type A switches. These nuances in design could contribute to a slightly varying typing experience for users of each switch.
Despite potential differences in design and construction, the Cherry MX Brown and Gateron Type A switches both offer a reliable and consistent typing experience thanks to their shared nylon housing materials. The use of nylon in both the top and bottom housings allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile while typing, enhancing the overall typing feel for users. Whether typing on a Cherry MX Brown or Gateron Type A switch, users can expect a similar level of sound absorption and rounder sound output, making them both popular choices among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, the MX Brown has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Type A's 50 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force of 55 grams, making them medium-light switches in terms of overall force required. The lighter actuation force of the MX Brown may appeal to those looking for a more effortless typing experience, ideal for extended periods of typing or gaming. On the other hand, the slightly heavier actuation force of the Type A may provide a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to individual preference for actuation force and typing experience.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a similar tactile feel and keypress experience when using either switch. Despite their equal travel distances, they differ in their tactile feedback and actuation force. The Cherry MX Brown switch provides a tactile bump halfway through the keypress, while the Gateron Type A switch has a smooth linear press without any tactile feedback. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to personal preference regarding the tactile feel and feedback desired during typing or gaming sessions.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00, 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, the Cherry MX Brown switch provides a bassy and low-pitched typing experience, which offers a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch presents a more subdued and neutral sound, making it suitable for a variety of environments. Both switches will give you a pleasant typing experience with their unique sound characteristics, so you can expect similar results in terms of sound quality.
Moving on to feel, the Cherry MX Brown switch offers a textured typing experience, providing a noticeable friction when pressed. Some users appreciate this texture, while others prefer a smoother typing feel. On the other hand, information on the tactile feel of the Gateron Type A switch is unknown. However, given its linear nature, it is likely to have a smooth and consistent feel without tactile feedback. If you prefer a subtle texture while typing, the Cherry MX Brown switch might be more suitable for you.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Brown and Gateron Type A switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The MX Brown switch provides a subtle and bassy typing experience with a textured feel, while the Gateron Type A presents a more neutral and subdued sound profile, and its typing feel is yet to be determined. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches can offer a comfortable typing experience. You can expect satisfying results with either switch, tailored to your specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between Cherry MX Brown tactile switches and Gateron Type A linear switches, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you value a light typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback, the Cherry MX Brown switches might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that offers a medium-weight feel with a sound signature leaning towards the deeper side of the spectrum, the Gateron Type A switches could be more suitable. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your personal preferences and the typing feel that best suits your needs.
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