Everglide Sunset Yellow vs. Gateron Weightlessness
An in-depth look at the Everglide Sunset Yellow and the Gateron Weightlessness switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the Everglide Sunset Yellow and the Gateron Weightlessness present two intriguing options, each catering to different typing preferences. The Sunset Yellow switches, characterized by their appealing Creamsicle color and distinctive sound reminiscent of mahjong tiles, provide a luxurious typing experience. Their medium weight and quick responsiveness make them an excellent choice for users seeking a smooth, frictionless feel while typing. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness switches offer a subtle to moderate tactile feedback, perfect for those who appreciate a more pronounced typing experience without sacrificing sound quality. This balance between tactile sensation and audio profile can enhance the sensory aspects of typing. While the Sunset Yellow encourages a gliding, almost indulgent feel, the Weightlessness engages users with its satisfying tactile bump. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
51g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Sunset Yellow and the Gateron Weightlessness switches, it's clear that both utilize different materials for their construction, yet they deliver surprisingly similar acoustic properties. The Sunset Yellow features POM (Polyoxymethylene) for both its top and bottom housings, which contributes to a sound profile that is deeper and more muted. This unique characteristic results from the hardness of POM, which, while firm, can intensify lower frequencies and dampen higher-pitched sounds. Conversely, the Weightlessness employs nylon for its top and bottom housings. Nylon, known for its softer nature, also elicits a deep and fuller sound because it absorbs and diminishes the impact noise better than harder plastics. This fundamental difference in materials reflects a divergence in texture and tactile feedback, but both switches achieve a deeply resonant sound.
Despite their differing materials, the impact on overall sound experience is nuanced rather than polarizing. The nature of the POM material in the Sunset Yellow creates a heavier feel while typing, promoting a sound that remains relatively muted and focused on lower frequencies. In contrast, the nylon of the Weightlessness slightly softens the acoustic signature, allowing for a rounder and more cushioned typing sound. This variation implies a tactile difference in typing experience; the Sunset Yellow may deliver a more precise feedback due to its firmer build, while the Weightlessness provides a pleasant tactile softness. However, the overall acoustic outcomes remain notably aligned; both options provide a deeper sound profile, making them appealing to users who prefer a lower-pitched auditory feedback during typing.
In summary, the unique materials of POM and nylon in the Sunset Yellow and Weightlessness result in distinct tactile experiences yet similar auditory results. The differences in feel when bottoming out or releasing a key may be more noticeable to users, primarily dictated by the housing's inherent properties. However, regardless of the disparities in material choice, both switches generate a rich, full sound that caters to typists seeking a low and muted auditory experience. Thus, while the specifics of the sound and feel may vary, the end results can be likened in terms of the tonal richness and satisfaction provided by both switch types.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, it becomes clear that they cater to different preferences in keyboard feel and resistance. The Sunset Yellow features an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 51 grams, classifying it as a medium-light switch, making it ideal for long typing sessions or gaming, as it provides a comfortable push without excessive resistance. Conversely, the Weightlessness has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams, though its bottom out force remains unknown. This suggests a more substantial tactile experience, which may appeal to users who prefer a stronger feel while typing. Consequently, the Sunset Yellow can be considered the lighter option, while the Weightlessness tends to lean towards a heavier typing experience, thus offering distinct tactile experiences for different user preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, there is a slight distinction to note. The Sunset Yellow has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Weightlessness features a longer travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Sunset Yellow switch offers a shorter travel distance, which can be more appealing for gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more pronounced depth, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial tactile feedback when pressing keys. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize speed and responsiveness or a more hearty feel during your typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Weightlessness has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Weightlessness for $5.50.
The Everglide Sunset Yellow comes in at $3.09 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 Sunset Yellow switch stands out with its thocky character, delivering a deep, rich auditory experience akin to the gentle yet satisfying noise of mahjong tiles colliding. This bassy sound profile enhances the overall typing experience, making each keystroke feel indulgent. In contrast, while the Gateron Weightlessness switch is known for its balanced sound profile, specific descriptors or detailed characteristics of its sound aren't provided. Thus, it’s difficult to draw a direct comparison, but it is likely that the Weightlessness will be quieter and less pronounced compared to the Sunset Yellow.
In terms of feel, the Sunset Yellow switch excels with its creamy, frictionless, and polished characteristics, offering a smooth, buttery typing experience that is both effortless and fluid. The use of a unique stem design and factory lubrication ensures that users can glide effortlessly across the keys without any resistance. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness switch provides a subtle to moderate tactile feel, which adds a different kind of engagement to the typing experience. However, specific details about its tactile feedback, including the degree of resistance or smoothness compared to the Sunset Yellow, are not available.
In conclusion, the Everglide Sunset Yellow switch is ideal for users seeking a rich auditory experience combined with a luxurious and effortless tactile feel. Meanwhile, the Gateron Weightlessness switch offers a more subdued tactile characteristic with a balanced sound profile, making it better suited for those who prefer a softer typing experience. While both switches cater to different preferences, if one desires a more pronounced auditory and tactile experience, the Sunset Yellow undeniably takes the lead. Ultimately, choosing between them will depend on personal preferences regarding sound and feel, as they offer distinctly different experiences.
Conclusion
In summary, the choice between the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch hinges on your personal typing preferences and the typing experience you seek. If you appreciate a smooth, responsive feel with a captivating sound profile, the Sunset Yellow might be your go-to. Its medium-light force of 51 grams and unique gliding sensation cater to a wide range of users, making it ideal for both leisurely typing and gaming. The thocky sound and creamy feel add an indulgent layer to the experience, perfect if you dislike resistance in keypresses. On the other hand, if you lean towards a more tactile experience without the need for pronounced resistance, the Weightlessness switch would suit you well. It offers a subtle tactility that enhances your feedback without overwhelming your fingers, making it a good choice for those who prefer a balanced typing sensation. In essence, choose the Sunset Yellow for a fluid and enjoyable experience with delightful acoustics, and opt for the Weightlessness if you favor a gentle tactile feedback that thrives in both typing and gaming environments. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your typing style and aesthetic preference.
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