Jwick Semi-Silent Linear vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Jwick semi-silent linear and the Gateron Type A mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The semi-silent linear stands out for its innovative whisper-quiet topping-out sound balanced with a clacky bottom-out sound, providing a silky smooth typing experience characterized by its subdued, neutral, mild, snappy, buttery, and polished qualities. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A from Sillyworks' Project Rehash offers a compromise for those seeking a medium-weight switch with a sound signature leaning towards the deeper side of the spectrum, described as neutral and subdued. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond the generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
The housing materials of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Gateron Type A switches offer different sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Semi-Silent Linear's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Type A's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. However, both switches share the use of nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a similar tactile experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. The choice between the two switches would depend on whether the user prefers a crisper sound from polycarbonate or a rounder sound from nylon.
In terms of aesthetics, the Semi-Silent Linear's polycarbonate top housing offers translucency that allows for RGB lighting effects, making it a visually appealing choice for those looking to customize their keyboard setup. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A's nylon top housing may not offer the same level of visual customization but provides a tactile typing experience with a deeper sound profile. Both switches prioritize sound quality, with the polycarbonate and nylon materials each contributing to a unique sound profile that can enhance the overall typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Gateron Type A switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and tactile feel. While the two switches differ in their top housing material, they both utilize nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel. Whether you prioritize a crisper and higher-pitched sound profile with the Semi-Silent Linear or a deeper and fuller sound with the Gateron Type A, both switches offer quality housing materials that enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch differ in terms of their weights. The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has a bottom out force of 62 grams, making it on the medium side, while the Gateron Type A has a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it slightly lighter at a medium-light level. Both switches have a similar actuation force, with the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear requiring None grams and the Gateron Type A needing 50 grams. When it comes to weight preference, the lighter force of the Gateron Type A may be preferred by those looking for a less strenuous typing experience for longer periods of time, such as for work or gaming sessions. Meanwhile, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear's heavier bottom out force may appeal to users seeking a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Gateron Type A linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Gateron Type A has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch. Gamers who prioritize fast response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Jwick switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Gateron Type A switch. Both options offer a different feel when typing, so it ultimately depends on personal preference when deciding between the two.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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
In terms of sound, the Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a subdued and neutral sound profile, with a whisper-quiet topping-out sound and a clacky bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A switch also provides a neutral sound profile with a slightly deeper tone. Both switches offer a more subtle and dampened sound signature compared to other switches, making them suitable for various environments and preferences. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Semi-Silent Linear switch is described as mild, snappy, buttery, and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with a smooth and fluid keystroke. The Type A switch's feel is unknown, but based on its positioning as a medium-weight switch, it is likely to provide a balanced and comfortable typing experience. Both switches aim to provide a pleasant and responsive typing sensation, catering to different preferences for typing feel.
Overall, the Semi-Silent Linear and Gateron Type A linear switches offer unique features in terms of sound and feel. While both switches provide a subdued and neutral sound profile, the Semi-Silent Linear switch stands out with its whisper-quiet topping-out sound. In terms of feel, the Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a range of qualities such as mild, snappy, buttery, and polished, while the feel of the Type A switch remains unknown. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience for newcomers exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Gateron Type A linear switches, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you are looking for a switch with a more subdued sound profile that offers a gentle typing experience, the Semi-Silent Linear may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a deeper sound signature and a moderate actuation force requirement, the Gateron Type A could be the better option. Ultimately, both switches offer innovative features that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and requirements.
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