Cherry MX Brown vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Brown and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Brown, a tactile switch, with the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, a linear switch, it becomes apparent that each switch offers unique features to cater to different preferences. The MX Brown is characterized by its subtle tactile feedback and light typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a more gentle typing feel. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° from Gateron stands out for its innovative design that focuses on delivering a smooth and silent typing experience, perfect for those who value minimal noise and maximum smoothness. While the MX Brown is known for its textured and low-pitched typing experience, the Zero Degree 0° boasts unparalleled smoothness and stability. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The Cherry MX Brown switch features a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile with its stiffer plastic material. This difference in housing materials affects the overall sound produced by the switches, providing users with distinct typing experiences based on their preferences for sound profile.
Both the MX Brown and the Zero Degree 0° switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is characteristic of this classic switch housing material. The absorption of sound by the softer nylon plastic in the bottom housing helps to create a duller and rounder sound overall when typing on these switches. Despite the shared material for the bottom housing, the differences in the top housing materials between the two switches contribute to variations in sound profiles and typing experiences for users looking for particular qualities in their mechanical keyboards.
Overall, the choice between the Cherry MX Brown and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel. While both switches feature a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound, the variation in top housing materials - nylon for the MX Brown and polycarbonate for the Zero Degree 0° - leads to differences in sound profiles. Whether one prefers the rounder sound of nylon or the crisper sound of polycarbonate, both switches offer unique typing experiences based on the materials used in their housing construction.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams, offering a light and responsive typing experience. However, the MX Brown has a bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a slightly heavier feel when fully pressed compared to the Zero Degree 0° switch, which has an unknown bottom out force. The MX Brown switch is ideal for those who prefer a bit more resistance for a more substantial typing experience, while the Zero Degree 0° switch may be more suitable for users who prefer a lighter keystroke for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the MX Brown has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Zero Degree 0° switch. The MX Brown's 4 mm travel distance provides a more traditional feel, while the 3.6 mm travel distance of the Zero Degree 0° switch offers a slightly shallower press. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Zero Degree 0° switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Cherry MX Brown. Ultimately, both switches offer different travel distances to cater to individual preferences, providing a diverse range of options for mechanical keyboard users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
The Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00 per 10 switches.
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
Overall, the Cherry MX Brown switch offers a traditional tactile typing experience with a subtle tactile bump and relatively quiet sound profile, making it a popular choice for both typing and gaming. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch stands out for its innovative design that prioritizes smoothness and sound dampening, providing a unique typing sensation that is both stable and quiet. While the MX Brown may have a slightly more textured feel compared to the smoothness of the Zero Degree 0°, both switches can offer a satisfying typing experience depending on individual preferences. Ultimately, choosing between these switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience, so exploring both options to see which one suits your preferences best is recommended.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you value a tactile typing experience with subtle feedback and a medium-light touch, the Cherry MX Brown switches would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth, linear typing experience that reduces noise and offers a soft, elastic feel, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switches would be more suitable for your needs. Consider the sound and feel preferences mentioned in our comparison to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, the choice between Cherry MX Brown and Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches comes down to personal preference and what characteristics you prioritize in your typing experience.
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