Cherry MX Speed Silver vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Gateron Type S are two popular options worth considering. The MX Speed Silver is praised for its lightning-fast response time, ideal for gamers looking to gain a competitive edge with its linear action and low spring resistance. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S offers a different experience with its weightier keystroke and balanced sound signature, making it a great choice for those seeking a more subdued 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
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
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
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Cherry MX Speed Silver and Gateron Type S switches both utilize nylon as their housing material, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Nylon is known for its relatively softer texture compared to harder plastics, allowing it to absorb more sound and create a duller, rounder sound. This characteristic is evident in both switches, providing users with a satisfying auditory experience while typing.
While both switches have nylon top and bottom housings, the specific qualities of each housing material will affect different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is fully pressed, while the top housing influences the sound produced when a key is released. Despite these differences, the overall sound profile of the Cherry MX Speed Silver and Gateron Type S switches remains similar due to the shared use of nylon as their housing material, ensuring a consistent typing experience for users.
Overall, the choice between the Cherry MX Speed Silver and Gateron Type S switches may come down to personal preference in terms of feel and sound. Both switches offer a deep and full sound profile thanks to their nylon housing materials, which absorb sound effectively and create a satisfying typing experience. Whether one prefers the bottom-out sound influenced by the bottom housing or the sound of key release influenced by the top housing, both switches deliver a high-quality performance due to their similar use of nylon as a key component in their construction.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, it is clear that the MX Speed Silver is lighter with an actuation force of 30 grams, compared to the Type S which has an actuation force of 55 grams. The bottom out force for the MX Speed Silver is unknown, while the Type S has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the MX Speed Silver would be the better option, allowing for longer typing sessions without as much finger fatigue. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier actuation and bottom out force for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for typing feel and the desire for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gateron Type S linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the MX Speed Silver has a shorter travel distance compared to the Type S. The shorter travel distance of the MX Speed Silver may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Type S may provide a more substantial feel when pressing the keys. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, so it ultimately depends on personal preference when choosing between them.
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 S 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 is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience when typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound, making it a versatile option suitable for various environments. The choice between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile, as both provide high-quality typing experiences tailored to different preferences.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is noted for its textured feel, offering a tactile feedback that some users may find appealing for a more engaging typing experience. Unfortunately, information regarding the feel of the Gateron Type S switch is not provided. Users who prefer a switch with a noticeable texture may lean towards the Cherry MX Speed Silver, while those who value a smoother typing experience may find the Gateron Type S to be more suitable.
Overall, the Cherry MX Speed Silver and Gateron Type S switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and potentially feel. While the MX Speed Silver excels in providing a thocky and low-pitched sound with a textured feel, the Gateron Type S offers a more neutral and subdued sound profile, without information on its tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and potentially typing experience, ensuring that users can find a switch that complements their specific needs and preferences in their mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Cherry MX Speed Silver and Gateron Type S linear switches, it all comes down to your preferences and intended use. If you prioritize speed and responsiveness in your keystrokes, especially for gaming where milliseconds matter, the MX Speed Silver with its instantaneous triggering and low spring resistance is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a weightier keystroke and a more balanced and deeper sound profile, the Gateron Type S with its 65g bottom-out force and neutral yet subdued sound signature might be the better option for you. Consider your typing style, gaming habits, and the sound profile you prefer when making your choice between these two impressive linear switches.
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