Cherry MX Speed Silver vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Gateron Type A mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique advantages. The MX Speed Silver is praised for its rapid response and full height design, ideal for gamers looking for instantaneous triggers and minimal spring resistance. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" stands out for its innovative approach to travel distances and factory lubing techniques, providing a medium-weight option with a deep sound signature. While both switches have their strengths, it ultimately comes down to personal preferences and specific needs. 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
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Both the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Gateron Type A switches use nylon for their top and bottom housing materials, resulting in a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel. The nylon material is known for its softer nature compared to harder plastics, allowing it to absorb more sound and produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This creates a duller and rounder sound that is preferred by many keyboard enthusiasts.
While both switches utilize nylon for their housing materials, the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Gateron Type A may differ in terms of overall construction and design. The specific design of the housing, as well as any additional features or modifications, can impact the typing experience and overall performance of the switch. It is important to consider not only the materials used but also the overall design of the switch when choosing a keyboard switch for your specific needs and preferences.
Ultimately, the choice between the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Gateron Type A may come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve. Both switches offer the benefits of nylon housing materials, such as a deeper sound profile and a softer feel, but subtle differences in design and construction may influence your decision. It is recommended to try out both switches if possible to determine which one best suits your typing style and preferences.
Weight
The Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams compared to the Gateron Type A linear switch, which has an actuation force of 50 grams, making the MX Speed Silver easier to trigger keystrokes with a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A has a heavier bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches have different characteristics that cater to individual preferences, with the MX Speed Silver offering a lighter typing experience for longer use and the Gateron Type A providing a more tactile feedback with its higher bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the Gateron Type A linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the MX Speed Silver switch may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Type A switch may provide a more satisfying keypress for some users. Both switches offer a different typing experience, with the shorter distance of the MX Speed Silver delivering quicker key actuation, and the longer distance of the Type A offering a more pronounced tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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
When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, giving users a satisfying and bass-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A switch provides a more neutral and subdued sound, making it a versatile option suitable for various settings. The choice between the two switches ultimately depends on the user's preference for sound, whether they enjoy a deep and rich thocky sound or a more mellow and subtle typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is characterized by its textured sensation, providing users with noticeable friction when pressed. This tactile feedback can be preferred by some users for a more distinct typing experience. Unfortunately, information on the specific feel of the Gateron Type A switch is not available at this time. However, based on the available information, users looking for a textured typing feel may lean towards the MX Speed Silver switch.
In conclusion, both the Cherry MX Speed Silver and Gateron Type A switches offer unique sound profiles and potentially different typing experiences. While the MX Speed Silver excels in providing a thocky and low-pitched sound with a textured feel, the Gateron Type A caters to those seeking a more neutral and subdued sound experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, as well as factors such as typing style and keyboard setup. Regardless of the choice made, users can expect a high-quality linear switch experience with either option.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, the decision will largely depend on your specific preferences and intended use. If you are a gamer looking for the fastest response time possible and don't mind a slightly louder and higher-pitched sound, the MX Speed Silver may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more neutral sound profile and a medium-weight switch that offers a compromise between actuation force and sound level, then the Gateron Type A could be a better fit. Both switches have their own unique strengths, so take into consideration factors such as sound, texture, actuation force, and intended use when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences and typing style.
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