Everglide Sunset Yellow vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Everglide Sunset Yellow and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Everglide Sunset Yellow and the Gateron Type L mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct differences to consider. The Sunset Yellow offers a luxurious typing experience with its rich, bassy sound profile and distinct gliding feel. It is versatile in its weight, making it suitable for a wide range of users. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L distinguishes itself as the lightest in its series, providing a more subtle and easy-to-press typing experience with a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
43g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
51g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-staged lengthened 20mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Everglide Sunset Yellow and the Gateron Type L switches feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Sunset Yellow utilizes POM for both the top and bottom housing, creating a deeper and more muted sound. In contrast, the Type L switch uses nylon for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to POM.
However, when comparing the top housing of the Sunset Yellow, made of POM, to the nylon top housing of the Type L, both materials do elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. The POM top housing provides a pleasing and unique sound with a deeper tone, while the nylon top housing also offers a deeper sound due to its softer nature. Both materials contribute to a sound that is more muted and less sharp, creating a more pleasant typing experience for users.
In terms of the bottom housing, the differences in material between the POM bottom housing of the Sunset Yellow and the nylon bottom housing of the Type L will impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. The POM bottom housing of the Sunset Yellow contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Type L provides a fuller and rounder sound. Despite these differences, both switches offer a unique typing experience with housing materials that absorb sound and create a satisfying sound profile.
Weight
The Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch both offer a smooth typing experience, but there are some key differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Sunset Yellow switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Type L's 38 grams, making the Sunset Yellow slightly heavier in that regard. When it comes to bottom out force, the Sunset Yellow requires 51 grams, while the Type L only needs 45 grams, making the Type L the lighter option overall. Typists who prefer a lighter touch may find the Type L more to their liking, as it requires less force to both actuate and bottom out. On the other hand, those who enjoy a bit more resistance in their typing experience may lean towards the Sunset Yellow. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, it is clear that the Sunset Yellow has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Type L has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Sunset Yellow's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for a faster response time, while the Type L's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth to the key press. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key press feel and responsiveness.Choosing the Sunset Yellow will provide a shorter travel distance and faster response time, while the Type L will offer a longer travel distance for a more deliberate key press experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Everglide Sunset Yellow comes in at $3.09, whereas the Gateron Type L comes in at $4.70.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Everglide Sunset Yellow and the Gateron Type L linear switches, it is evident that the Sunset Yellow offers a bassy and thocky sound that can be described as deep, rich, and satisfying during key presses. On the other hand, the Type L produces a more neutral and subdued sound that leans towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum. The Sunset Yellow provides a more indulgent auditory experience reminiscent of mahjong tiles colliding, while the Type L offers a more contemporary and elegant sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound characteristics, as well as other factors such as keyboard build and keycap choice.
In terms of feel, the Everglide Sunset Yellow boasts creamy, frictionless, and polished attributes that result in a smooth, buttery, and effortless typing experience. This is achieved through the unique Ly stem and factory lube method, ensuring a distinct gliding feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L is described as feathery and easy-to-press, providing an exceptionally light and responsive typing experience that requires minimal force to activate. Both switches offer a comfortable typing feel, but the Sunset Yellow emphasizes a polished and luxurious sensation while the Type L prioritizes a light and low-impact touch.
In conclusion, the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Sunset Yellow provides a rich, bassy sound with a creamy, frictionless typing experience, while the Type L offers a more neutral, subdued sound with a feathery, easy-to-press feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound depth, keypress smoothness, and actuation force, users can choose between the indulgent experience of the Sunset Yellow or the light and contemporary feel of the Type L. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to a wide range of typing preferences and styles, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force and sound profile. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a deep, rich sound with a bassy and thocky profile, the Sunset Yellow may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a more neutral, subdued sound with a lighter actuation force that reduces finger fatigue, the Type L may be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features that cater to different typing styles and preferences, so it's essential to consider your personal preferences and needs when making a decision.