Cherry MX Purple RGB vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, preferences can vary significantly depending on what you prioritize in your typing experience. The Cherry MX Purple RGB switch is a tactile option that offers a refined tactile experience with a short, medium-strength bump, making it appealing for users who enjoy a noticeable feedback with each keystroke. This switch, developed in collaboration with keyboard enthusiast Glarses, is well-suited for gamers and typists alike who appreciate a responsive feel without excessive actuation force. In contrast, the Gateron Type A represents a linear switch that is part of Sillyworks' innovative "Project Rehash" / SLAY series. Known for its medium weight and deeper sound signature, the Type A is designed for those who prefer a smoother, uninterrupted keystroke without tactile bumps, making it ideal for rapid gaming or extensive typing sessions. Each switch caters to different preferences—while the MX Purple RGB provides tactile feedback, the Gateron Type A ensures a fluid and quieter typing experience. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Gateron Type A, it is noteworthy that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This shared materiality contributes to significantly similar acoustic and tactile characteristics for both switches. Nylon, being a classic choice for switch construction, allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. The sound characteristics produced when typing on both switches are characterized by a duller and rounder tone, largely because nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics. Thus, users can expect comparable auditory experiences from both switches, enhancing the overall typing experience.
Diving deeper into the construction of the housings, we see that both the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Gateron Type A feature nylon for both the top and bottom parts. The uniformity in housing materials ensures that the sound profile and tactile feedback will be similarly deep and resonant. This means that when pressing a key on either switch, users can anticipate a consistent feedback mechanism. The bottom housing is crucial for bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound produced when the key is released. Since both switches employ nylon for both housings, the performance and auditory feedback remain aligned, giving users a seamless typing experience regardless of their choice.
In a scenario where the top and bottom housings of a switch might differ, each material's distinct qualities would create a more varied auditory and tactile experience. However, the Cherry MX Purple RGB and Gateron Type A, with their identical nylon construction throughout, mitigate such variability. The blending of nylon's sound-absorbing properties in both housings means any potential differences in feel or sound are predominantly minimized. Therefore, users can expect a harmonious typing experience that is enhanced by the properties of nylon, leading to a desirable and satisfying keypress across both switch options.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch to the Gateron Type A linear switch, notable differences appear in their actuation and bottom out forces. The MX Purple RGB requires an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Gateron Type A has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams. This means that the Cherry MX switch is lighter, allowing for a potentially more comfortable typing experience during extended use, making it ideal for long work sessions or gaming marathons. However, the MX Purple RGB lacks a specified bottom out force, whereas the Gateron Type A has a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorized as medium-light. This adds a layer of feedback to the Gateron switch that might appeal to users seeking a more substantial typing feel. Therefore, while users who prefer lighter switches may lean towards the Cherry MX Purple, those looking for a fuller experience with a defined bottoming out sensation might opt for the Gateron Type A.
Travel distance
Both the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This identical measurement means that users will experience a similar keypress depth when using either switch, leading to comparable tactile feedback during typing or gaming. Since both switches travel the same distance from top to bottom, users can expect equivalent results in terms of actuation feel and overall key response.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
The Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70 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
The sound profile of the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch is characterized by a robust, tactile bump that delivers a pronounced sound when activated, aimed at providing auditory feedback that many enthusiasts appreciate. In contrast, the Gateron Type A switch presents a more neutral sound signature, which leans towards the subdued side, producing a dampened tone upon actuation. This makes the Type A a versatile choice suitable for a broad range of environments, whether at home or in a professional setting, as it maintains a moderate auditory presence without being overly disruptive. The sound quality of both switches can also be influenced by the specific keyboard frame and keycap material used, meaning you might find a blend of tones that resonates with your preferences.
When it comes to tactile feel, the Cherry MX Purple RGB offers a refined tactile experience with a short, medium-strength bump that provides satisfying feedback without being overly harsh. This design makes it appealing for those who enjoy a tactile response in their typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A switch is designed as a medium-weight linear switch, which means it lacks the tactile bump found in the Cherry MX Purple RGB. However, because it employs advanced lubing techniques, it aims to offer a smooth keystroke throughout its travel, making it feel light and fluid. While the MX Purple RGB engages your fingers with a defined tactile response, the Type A emphasizes a fluid experience devoid of tactile interruptions.
In summary, both the Cherry MX Purple RGB and Gateron Type A switches cater to distinct preferences in sound and feel. The MX Purple RGB excels in providing pronounced tactile feedback accompanied by a more dramatic auditory signature, appealing to those who enjoy feeling and hearing each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A focuses on offering a versatile, subdued sound alongside a smooth linear experience, making it suitable for various environments. Ultimately, the choice hinges on whether you prioritize tactile feedback or a smoother, quieter typing experience, and either switch can yield positive results depending on your personal typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a tactile feel that provides a satisfying bump without requiring excessive force, the Cherry MX Purple is an excellent choice, particularly if you're looking for a refined typing experience that offers feedback with each keypress. This can be particularly beneficial for typists who enjoy the tactile sensation while still maintaining a relatively smooth feel during use. On the other hand, if you are seeking a linear switch that balances a mid-range actuation force with a more subdued sound profile, the Gateron Type A could be more appealing. It’s particularly suitable for a versatile range of scenarios, whether you're gaming or working in a shared environment, as its neutral and subdued sound signature ensures you won’t disturb those around you. Ultimately, your specific typing style, noise level preferences, and usage context will guide you in making the right choice between these two distinct switches.
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