Everglide Oreo vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Everglide Oreo and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Everglide Oreo tactile switch to the Gateron Type L linear switch, it's evident that both offer unique characteristics tailored to different preferences. The Oreo switch boasts a deliciously tactile experience, with a crisp and responsive bump at the top followed by a cushioned sensation when bottoming out. It provides a satisfying keystroke and comfortable typing experience with a subtle, mellow sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L is part of Sillyworks' innovative "Project Rehash," offering a lightweight feel and deep sound signature. It requires only 45g to bottom out and is lauded for its easy-to-press actuation. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Oreo and the Gateron Type L, it is evident that the Oreo utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, while the Type L incorporates nylon for both components. The polycarbonate in the Oreo provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, ideal for RGB lighting aesthetics. In contrast, the nylon in the Type L creates a deeper, fuller sound profile by being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. Although both switches aim to provide a premium typing experience, the choice of housing material impacts the sound and feel of typing in distinct ways.
One key similarity between the Everglide Oreo and the Gateron Type L is their utilization of different housing materials for the top and bottom housing, allowing for a balance in sound qualities throughout each keystroke. While the Oreo's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a clear and resonant bottom-out sound, the Type L's nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder impact sensation. Conversely, the top housing material plays a significant role in the sound upon key release, with the Oreo's polycarbonate top offering a crisper sound compared to the Type L's nylon top. This dual housing design ensures a nuanced typing experience tailored to the preferences of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Overall, the choice between the Everglide Oreo and the Gateron Type L ultimately comes down to personal preference regarding sound and feel. The Oreo's polycarbonate housing delivers a sharper sound profile that is well-suited for RGB lighting enthusiasts, while the Type L's nylon housing offers a deeper and fuller sound experience for those seeking a more subdued typing experience. Regardless of the choice, both switches provide a premium typing experience, with the distinct qualities of their housing materials catering to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Everglide Oreo tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, it is clear that the Type L is the lighter of the two switches. The Oreo has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Type L has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Oreo requires a slightly heavier touch to trigger a keystroke and to bottom out compared to the Type L. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Type L would be the better option, allowing for longer typing sessions with less strain. On the other hand, if a more substantial and tactile typing experience is desired, the Oreo would be the preferred choice. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on individual preferences, with the lighter Type L being ideal for extended typing sessions and the slightly heavier Oreo providing a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The Everglide Oreo tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches offer a consistent and familiar typing experience in terms of key travel. The user can expect similar tactile feedback and actuation force regardless of which switch they choose. As a result, the typing experience on both switches will feel consistent and predictable, making them suitable for individuals who prefer a specific travel distance in their mechanical keyboards. Both switches provide a moderate amount of key travel, striking a balance between typing comfort and efficiency.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Oreo has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Oreo for $4.19.
The Gateron Type L 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 Everglide Oreo tactile switch is known for its subtly mellow and enjoyable sound profile, offering a pleasant typing experience with a unique chirpy characteristic. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L linear switch provides a more subdued sound, leaning towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum. While the Oreo switch offers a distinct auditory experience with its chirpy sound, the Type L switch delivers a more neutral and subtle sound signature suitable for various purposes.
In terms of feel, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch is lauded for its accented and stepped tactile feedback, providing a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Users can enjoy a satisfying keystroke with a cushioned bottoming out sensation. Conversely, the Gateron Type L linear switch offers a feathery and easy-to-press feel, requiring minimal exertion from your fingers and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience with their unique tactile and linear characteristics.
Overall, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences and typing styles. Whether you prefer a chirpy sound profile with medium tactility or a subdued sound with feathery key presses, both switches strive to enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, tactility, and typing comfort.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Everglide Oreo tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, consider the key factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a balanced tactile experience with a subtle sound profile, the Everglide Oreo switch is the choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth, linear typing experience with a deeper sound profile, the Gateron Type L switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style to ensure the best typing experience for you.
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