Everglide Tourmaline Blue vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the Everglide Tourmaline Blue and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Everglide Tourmaline Blue, a linear switch, with the Gateron Type S, another linear switch, it is evident that both switches have unique qualities that may appeal to different types of keyboard users. The Tourmaline Blue is celebrated for its deep and thocky sound profile, offering a satisfying typing experience with a bouncy feel due to its lengthened single-stage spring. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S, part of Sillyworks' "Project Rehash," boasts a weightier keystroke with its 65g bottom-out and a pleasingly balanced sound signature. While the Tourmaline Blue is buttery, easy-to-press, and mild, the Type S is characterized as neutral and subdued. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on personal preferences and typing habits. 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
59g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Tourmaline Blue and the Gateron Type S, it is clear that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Tourmaline Blue features a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is resonant and clear. On the other hand, the Type S has a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile that is rounder and duller in comparison. This difference in housing materials results in distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
In terms of the bottom housings, the Tourmaline Blue and the Gateron Type S also differ. The Tourmaline Blue's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharp and crisp sound profile, similar to its top housing. In contrast, the Type S's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile that is deeper and fuller. This difference in bottom housing materials further highlights the unique sound characteristics of each switch, catering to different typing experiences based on individual preferences.
While the Everglide Tourmaline Blue and the Gateron Type S have contrasting housing materials for both their top and bottom housings, the overall typing experience may still be relatively similar. The Tourmaline Blue's polycarbonate top and bottom housings create a consistent sharp and crisp sound profile, while the Type S's nylon top and bottom housings offer a more rounded and deep sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound characteristics, with the Tourmaline Blue providing a clear and resonant typing experience, and the Type S offering a fuller and deeper sound.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, we can see that the Tourmaline Blue is slightly heavier in both categories. The Tourmaline Blue has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, while the Type S has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, providing a nice balance between a light typing experience and a more substantial push feel. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Type S may be the better option, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Tourmaline Blue may appeal to those who enjoy a bit more resistance for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in that aspect. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This similarity allows users to expect similar results in terms of key feel and performance when using either switch. Overall, the travel distance of both switches is identical, providing a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch is chosen.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Tourmaline Blue has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Tourmaline Blue for $3.89.
The Gateron Type S 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 Tourmaline Blue and the Type S switches offer a neutral sound profile, suitable for various typing environments. However, the Tourmaline Blue leans towards a deep and thocky sound, providing a more immersive typing experience, while the Type S has a more subdued sound, offering a quieter typing experience with a slightly dampened sound when pressed. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Tourmaline Blue provides a buttery and easy-to-press typing experience, with a bouncy feel due to its lengthened single-stage spring. This results in a smooth and fluid typing sensation, making it effortless and comfortable to type on. On the other hand, the typing feel of the Type S switch is unknown, as there are no specific descriptors provided. However, given its 65g bottom-out weight, it can be inferred that the Type S offers a weightier keystroke experience.
Overall, both the Everglide Tourmaline Blue and the Gateron Type S switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the Tourmaline Blue excels in providing a deep and thocky sound with a buttery and easy-to-press typing feel, the Type S offers a more subdued sound profile and potentially a weightier typing experience. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches are capable of delivering a satisfying typing experience for users of various skill levels.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a deep and thocky sound profile with a bouncy feel, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch may be the right choice for you. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, these switches strike a balance between enjoyable typing experience and accessibility. On the other hand, if you prefer a weightier keystroke with a sound signature that leans towards a neutral yet deeper acoustic experience, the Gateron Type S linear switch with a 65g bottom-out force may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal typing style and sound preferences.
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