Cherry MX Orange vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Orange and Gateron Zero Degree 0° offer distinct experiences that cater to different typing preferences. The Cherry MX Orange, a reimagined version of the original switches created in partnership with Hirose, is celebrated for its balance of tactile feedback and smooth keystrokes, making it a popular choice for both typists and gamers seeking a responsive feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch excels in delivering a silent typing experience, thanks to its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, which provides exceptional smoothness and stability while absorbing sound. Choosing between these two switches can depend on your specific needs—if you're looking for a classic, reliable feel, the Cherry MX Orange may be the way to go, whereas the Gateron Zero Degree 0° is ideal for those who value quiet, comfortable typing. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Cherry MX Orange Linear

Gateron Zero Degree 0° Linear

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

$6.50

$5.50 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Orange and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, a notable distinction arises in the composition of their top housings. The MX Orange features a nylon top housing, known for its sound-absorbing properties, resulting in a deeper and fuller acoustic profile when typing. This softer plastic construction contributes to a more muted sound, giving the user a distinct tactile experience that is both warm and rounded. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that is inherently stiffer and thus produces a higher-pitched and crisper sound. This difference in material creates two contrasting auditory experiences, making each switch uniquely tailored to different preferences in sound and feel.

Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon, which means they share similar acoustic qualities in that regard. As a classic housing material, nylon is adept at absorbing sound, leading to that characteristic deep and full sound profile. This similarity allows for a consistent bottom-out feel across both switches, emphasizing a rounder sound when keys are fully pressed. The use of nylon in both the MX Orange and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°’s bottom housings helps to create a pleasurable typing experience, where both switches resonate similarly in terms of sound when fully engaged.

While the top and bottom housing materials can significantly affect the overall typing experience, the MX Orange and Gateron Zero Degree 0° illustrate how different combinations can be achieved. The MX Orange's nylon top and bottom housings work in unison to create a cohesive sound experience, resulting in a warm, muted audibility. Conversely, the Gateron Zero Degree 0°'s mix of polycarbonate top and nylon bottom presents a more multifaceted auditory experience: the stiffer polycarbonate lends brightness and clarity upon keystroke release, while the nylon bottom absorbs sound upon bottoming out. Therefore, while the bottom housings are the same and deliver consistency in feel, the differing top materials play a crucial role in shaping the switches' distinct sound profiles.

Weight

When comparing the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, notable differences appear in their actuation forces. The Cherry MX Orange requires an actuation force of 55 grams, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. This means that users seeking a lighter typing experience would likely prefer the Gateron switch, as typing or gaming could feel less strenuous over extended periods. Both switches, however, have unknown values for their bottom out forces, making it challenging to draw direct comparisons in that regard. As a result, the Cherry MX Orange is categorized as the heavier option, offering a more robust push feel, which might be more appealing to those who prefer substantial feedback while typing. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° provides a more gentle actuation, suited for users favoring lighter key presses.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, we find that the MX Orange has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Zero Degree 0° measures slightly less at 3.6 mm. This means that the Cherry MX Orange provides a longer travel distance, which may appeal to users who prefer a more pronounced depth when pressing down on a key. In contrast, the shorter 3.6 mm travel distance of the Gateron Zero Degree switch caters to gamers and those who favor quicker response times, as it allows for faster actuation. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preference for tactile feedback and responsiveness, with the MX Orange providing a more traditional feel and the Gateron switch offering a more immediate action.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Cherry MX Orange switch tends to produce a classic linear typing experience with a subtle, refined acoustic profile that is not overly loud, making it suitable for office environments or shared spaces. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch is designed with an innovative self-padding feature that significantly dampens sound, resulting in a notably quieter typing experience. This design minimizes noise by absorbing vibrations effectively, allowing for a much more muted sound when typing, which can be especially appealing for those seeking a stealthy keyboard.

Regarding feel, the Cherry MX Orange switch offers a smooth and linear experience, characterized by its balanced actuation without any tactile bump or click. This quality makes it ideal for fast typists or gamers who prefer uninterrupted keystrokes. Conversely, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch delivers a distinctively soft and elastic feel due to its dual-rail structure, enhancing stability and providing an almost gliding sensation while typing. Both switches aim for smooth keystrokes, but the Zero Degree 0° adds a unique cushioning effect that can make long typing sessions more comfortable.

Overall, while both the Cherry MX Orange and Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches focus on providing a linear typing experience, they cater to slightly different preferences. The MX Orange may appeal to those who appreciate a reliable, classic linear switch with a decent sound profile, while the Zero Degree 0° excels in offering a whisper-quiet experience combined with a unique softness in feel. Choosing between them will depend on whether you prioritize sound dampening and plush feel over the traditional linear characteristics of the MX Orange.

Conclusion

To sum up, when choosing between Cherry MX Orange and Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switches, your choice largely depends on your specific typing preferences and needs. If you're someone who enjoys a smooth, balanced experience that mirrors the feel of the original MX Orange, particularly in terms of an enhanced tactile response from the revamped design, you may find the Cherry MX Orange to your liking. This switch is great for typists who appreciate a bit of nostalgia and seek a reliable option for both gaming and general use. On the other hand, if you prioritize silent operation and a soft, cushioned typing experience, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° would be the superior choice. Its innovative design focuses on noise reduction and offers an exceptionally smooth feel, making it ideal for environments where sound might be a concern, such as in shared workspaces or while gaming at night. Ultimately, consider what matters most to you—whether it's the traditional reliability and tactile feel of the MX Orange or the whisper-quiet, plush experience of the Zero Degree 0°. Your switching experience should cater to your personal typing style, so weigh these aspects carefully to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.

Mentioned in this article

Cherry MX Orange Linear

$4.10

$3.89 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Zero Degree 0° Linear

$6.50

$5.50 per 10

Learn more