Cherry MX Orange vs. Gateron Type L

Overview

When looking to upgrade your typing experience, choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch is crucial, and two popular options to consider are the Cherry MX Orange and the Gateron Type L. The Cherry MX Orange switches boast a legacy that revives the original MX Orange design, enhanced with modern improvements, making them appealing for those who appreciate a tactile yet linear experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L is known for its ultra-light actuation at only 45g to bottom out, along with a deeper sound profile that provides a unique auditory experience while typing. Both switches cater to different preferences: the MX Orange for users looking for dependable performance with a bit of tactile feedback, and the Type L for those who desire a smoother, feather-light touch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Cherry MX Orange Linear

Gateron Type L Linear

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

$4.70 per 10

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Housing materials

The Cherry MX Orange and Gateron Type L switches share notable similarities in their housing materials, both utilizing nylon for their top and bottom housings. This choice of nylon as a housing material in both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, which many typists and gamers appreciate. The relatively softer characteristics of nylon allow it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a sound that is duller and rounder. As a consequence, both the MX Orange and the Type L offer a pleasant acoustic experience that minimizes the harsher sounds typically associated with keyboard actuations, favoring a more muted and satisfying typing experience.

Despite the shared use of nylon in their construction, the way each switch feels during use reflects the distribution of the housing's sound-dampening qualities. When a user engages the keys of the switches, the bottom housing largely influences the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback. Since both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, they maintain consistency in their deep acoustic profiles, contributing to an overall similar typing experience upon bottoming out. This allows typists to have a comparable feel between the MX Orange and the Type L when pressing keys, as the nylon absorbs some of the impact, resulting in a softer bottom-out experience across both models.

While the top housing of both switches is also made from nylon, individual design nuances might still play a role in their performance during key releases. This means that while the overall sound profile should remain consistent, users may notice slight differences in the auditory experience when releasing the keys due to potential variations in internal design or construction specifics. Nevertheless, as both switches utilize the same nylon material in their top and bottom housings, they establish a solid foundation for similar acoustic performance and tactile feedback, ultimately delivering a satisfying experience for users in both gaming and typing scenarios.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, we observe distinct differences in their specifications. The Cherry MX Orange features an actuation force of 55 grams, which makes it a heavier option, providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Type L boasts a significantly lighter actuation force of 38 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for prolonged typing sessions or gaming. However, the Gateron Type L also has a bottom out force of 45 grams, which means it will require some effort to press all the way down, yet still remains lighter than the Cherry MX Orange's actuation force. The bottom out force for the MX Orange is unavailable, preventing a direct comparison. Overall, those seeking a lighter switch should opt for the Gateron Type L, while those who prefer a heavier push feeling may gravitate towards the Cherry MX Orange.

Travel distance

Both the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch have an identical travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that users will experience the same key press depth when using either switch. This similarity in travel distance ensures that individuals switching between the two switches are likely to enjoy a consistent typing experience, as the distance from top to bottom is uniform. Consequently, users can expect comparable results in terms of actuation and overall feel, making either option a viable choice for those who prefer linear switches.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound produced by the Cherry MX Orange switch is subtly defined, resulting in a pleasant acoustic experience for users. It strikes a balanced tone that doesn’t overpower a room, making it suitable for various environments, whether it be a home office or a quieter shared workspace. In contrast, the Gateron Type L exhibits a more nuanced sound profile. It is categorized as neutral and subdued, which means it delivers a deeper, less intrusive audio signature. This makes it more versatile for both casual and professional settings, as it allows you to type without drawing too much attention to the keystrokes. While both switches produce a sound that is generally unobtrusive, the Type L leans toward a more rounded and deeper tone.

When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Orange switch offers a unique tactile experience that is enhanced by its design, although specific comparative details are not provided. The Gateron Type L, on the other hand, is characterized by its feathery touch and easy-to-press nature. Users enjoy a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue, making it particularly appealing for those who type for long durations or engage in repetitive tasks like gaming. The effortless key presses provided by the Type L create a user-friendly experience that encourages longer typing sessions without discomfort. While the MX Orange may deliver a satisfying feel in its unique manner, the Type L distinctly prioritizes a lightweight and responsive touch.

In conclusion, while the Cherry MX Orange switches provide a favorable auditory experience and a feel that may appeal to those seeking a more traditional tactile response, the Gateron Type L shines in its lightness and deeper sound signature. Both options cater to different preferences; the MX Orange may be more familiar to some users, whereas the Type L incorporates modern enhancements that prioritize comfort and versatility. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your specific needs for sound and physical interaction, but both switches are engineered to deliver satisfactory results in their respective domains.

Conclusion

To wrap up, when deciding between the Cherry MX Orange and the Gateron Type L linear switches, consider your specific needs and preferences. If you value a nostalgic typing experience and are looking for a switch that has been revamped with modern enhancements, the Cherry MX Orange might be the right choice for you. It’s particularly well-suited for those who appreciate a balanced sound and feel, offering a familiar tactile experience reminiscent of earlier generations of switches. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation and a more subdued sound profile, the Gateron Type L would serve you better. Its 45g bottom-out force makes it exceedingly easy to press, reducing finger fatigue, which is especially beneficial for long hours of typing or gaming. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you prioritize the heritage and subtle auditory feedback of the MX Orange, or the lightness and effortless keystroke of the Type L.

Mentioned in this article

Cherry MX Orange Linear

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

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Gateron Type L Linear

$4.70 per 10

Learn more