Jwick Taro vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Jwick Taro and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When diving into the world of mechanical keyboard switches, two popular choices that often come up for consideration are the Jwick Taro, a tactile switch, and the Gateron Type L, a linear switch. The Taro switch is praised for its cozy typing experience, offering a medium level of tactility and crisp clacks, with a color scheme to match. On the other hand, the Type L from Gateron stands out as the lightest in its series, requiring minimal force to press and producing a sound that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum. While the Taro switch provides a satisfying tactile feedback, the Type L offers a smooth and easy-to-press typing experience. 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
N/A
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Jwick Taro and the Gateron Type L switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Taro features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiff nature. In contrast, the Type L utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the Taro's polycarbonate top housing is better suited for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency, while the Type L's nylon top housing provides a classic typing experience.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of both switches is made of nylon, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile in both cases. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to stiffer plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material between the Taro and Type L means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel when pressing down on the switches. However, the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel may vary slightly between the two switches due to the overall design and construction.
In summary, while the Taro and Type L switches share a nylon bottom housing material, their top housing materials differ significantly in terms of sound profile and overall typing experience. The Taro's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharp and clear sound profile, particularly suitable for switches with RGB lighting, while the Type L's nylon top housing delivers a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches provide unique qualities based on their housing materials, allowing users to choose based on their preferred sound profile and typing feel. Overall, the choice between the Jwick Taro and the Gateron Type L switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, aesthetics, and typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jwick Taro tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, it is evident that the Taro has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams compared to the Type L's 45 grams. The actuation force for the Type L is 38 grams, while the Taro's actuation force is not specified. This makes the Type L lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces. The Taro may offer a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a heavier push feel, while the Type L would be more suitable for those looking for a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. Both switches provide different levels of tactile feedback, with the Taro offering a more pronounced tactile bump compared to the smoother linear feel of the Type L. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Jwick Taro tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, we can see that the Taro has a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Type L has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Taro's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Type L's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial key press experience. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, but the slight difference in length may affect the overall feel and response of each switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press experience.
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 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, both the Jwick Taro tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch fall under the category of neutral switches, meaning they have a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes. While the Taro switch offers a snappy and crisp clack sound, the Type L switch delivers a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum, making it a bit more subdued in comparison. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Taro switch is described as providing a buttery and stepped typing experience, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation with a mild tactility. On the other hand, the Type L switch is characterized as feathery and easy-to-press, requiring minimal effort to activate and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience, but the Taro switch may appeal more to those looking for a more pronounced tactile feedback, while the Type L switch prioritizes a light and effortless typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch offer different sound profiles and typing experiences, they both aim to provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience for users. Whether you prefer a snappier and more tactile feel like the Taro switch or a lighter and easier-to-press typing experience like the Type L switch, both switches are reliable options that can cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Jwick Taro tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a cozy and tactile typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, then the Taro switch is for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light and easy-to-press switch with a bottom out force of only 45 grams, the Type L may be a better fit. Both switches offer a neutral sound profile, but the Taro provides a buttery and stepped feel, whereas the Type L offers a feathery and easy-to-press sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your personal preference for typing feel and actuation force.
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