Jwick Taro vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Jwick Taro and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Jwick Taro and the Gateron Type A are both mechanical keyboard switches with distinct features that cater to different preferences. The Taro switch offers a cozy typing experience with a medium level of tactility and crisp clacks, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a tactile feel while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A is known for its innovative design, featuring a unique travel distance and factory lubing techniques that provide a smooth typing experience with a deeper sound signature. Both switches are categorized as neutral, but the Taro is described as buttery and stepped, while the Type A is subdued. When choosing between these two switches, consider whether you prefer a tactile typing experience like the Taro or a smoother, linear feel like the Type A. However, let's delve deeper beyond 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
67g
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
No
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
Both the Jwick Taro and Gateron Type A switches feature a nylon bottom housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other housing materials. The softness of the nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. Despite having different top housings, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the overall typing experience of these switches, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel.
In contrast, the top housing of the Jwick Taro is made of polycarbonate, while the Gateron Type A features a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, leading to a deeper and fuller sound when typing on switches. The choice of top housing material can greatly impact the overall sound and feel of a switch, especially when paired with different bottom housing materials.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Jwick Taro and Gateron Type A switches differ, they both offer distinct sound profiles based on the properties of the materials used. The Taro's polycarbonate top housing provides a clear and resonant sound profile, ideal for showcasing RGB lighting due to its translucency. In comparison, the Type A's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, emphasizing a rounder and duller tone. Both switches demonstrate how the choice of housing materials can affect the overall typing experience and sound profile of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jwick Taro tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, it is evident that they offer different experiences to users. The Taro switch has an actuation force of None grams, making it light and easy to trigger keystrokes, while its bottom out force of 67 grams provides a medium-heavy feel when typing or gaming. In contrast, the Type A switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams, providing a more substantial push feel during keystrokes, and a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, creating a medium-light typing experience. Those looking for a lighter touch may prefer the Gateron Type A switch, ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions, while individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Jwick Taro switch with its heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer unique benefits, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces for an optimal typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
The Jwick Taro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, making it shorter than the Gateron Type A linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Taro's shorter travel distance might be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the Type A's longer travel distance could provide a deeper and more satisfying keystroke feel. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Type A being slightly longer. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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
When it comes to sound, both the Jwick Taro tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch are described as having a neutral profile, meaning they offer a moderate sound profile suitable for various environments and users. However, the Taro switch is noted for a slightly subdued sound, providing a more muted typing experience compared to the Type A. Additionally, the Taro switch produces acute and crisp clacks, while the Type A leans towards a deeper sound spectrum. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Jwick Taro tactile switch is described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that feels seamless and effortless. It also features a stepped tactile feel, giving a mild two-stage sensation with some pre-travel and post-travel. On the other hand, information regarding the specific feel of the Gateron Type A linear switch is unavailable. If the Type A switch does not have any unique feel characteristics, users can expect a standard linear typing experience that is smooth and consistent.
In conclusion, the Jwick Taro tactile switch offers a cozy typing experience with medium tactility and a slightly subdued sound profile, ideal for those seeking a buttery and stepped feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch, part of Sillyworks' "Project Rehash," provides a sound signature leaning towards the deeper side of the spectrum, catering to users looking for a moderate-weight switch. Both switches offer a neutral sound profile, ensuring versatility for a wide range of users and environments. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Jwick Taro tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a cozy, tactile feel with a medium-heavy bottom out force and snappy tactility, the Taro switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a sound signature leaning towards the deeper side of the sound spectrum, the Type A switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for tactility and sound profile when typing.
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