Gateron Type A vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Type A and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron Type A, a linear switch, and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro, a tactile switch, both offering unique features for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Type A is praised for its medium weight and deep sound signature, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro switches are known for their medium tactility, light touch, and neutral sound signature, appealing to users who desire a well-balanced typing feel. While these general pointers can help you narrow down your options, it's essential to delve deeper into the specifics of each switch to determine which one best suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Type A and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro both use nylon for their bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the Type A utilizes a nylon top housing while the Violet Gold Pro features a polycarbonate top housing. The use of polycarbonate in the Violet Gold Pro's top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffer nature. This difference in top housing material can result in a noticeable variation in sound when typing on the two switches.
In terms of aesthetics, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro stands out with its clear polycarbonate top housing, allowing for RGB lighting to shine through and enhance the overall look of the switch. This feature makes the Violet Gold Pro a popular choice for users looking to add a visually appealing element to their keyboard setup. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A's nylon top housing may not offer the same level of visual customization, but it still provides a unique sound profile that is deeper and fuller compared to switches with harder plastic housings. Despite their differences in top housing material, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, albeit with distinct sound characteristics.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Type A and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro will ultimately come down to personal preferences in sound and aesthetics. Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a similar deep and full sound profile when typing. However, the difference in top housing material – nylon for the Type A and polycarbonate for the Violet Gold Pro – creates a contrast in sound characteristics, with the Type A offering a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper and crisper sound of the Violet Gold Pro. Ultimately, users will need to consider whether they prioritize a visually striking clear top housing with RGB lighting capabilities or a more subdued sound profile when deciding between the two switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Type A linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, we can see that the Type A switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Violet Gold Pro's 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Type A requires 55 grams, while the force required for the Violet Gold Pro is unknown. This makes the Type A switch have a more consistent force throughout the keystroke process. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Violet Gold Pro for longer typing sessions, while others might appreciate the slight increase in force provided by the Type A switch for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron Type A linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Type A being slightly longer than the Violet Gold Pro. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Violet Gold Pro for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Type A. Overall, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, so you can expect similar results in terms of keypress feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
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
In terms of sound, both the Gateron Type A linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch are described as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a variety of typing environments. However, the Type A leans towards a sound signature that is deeper and more subdued than the Violet Gold Pro. This difference may be subtle but can affect the overall typing experience, especially for those who prefer a quieter switch.
When it comes to feel, the Type A does not have a specific descriptor provided, whereas the Violet Gold Pro is described as a stepped switch. This means that the Violet Gold Pro offers a tactile typing experience with two distinct stages, providing a more nuanced feedback compared to a linear switch like the Type A. The light touch of the Violet Gold Pro combined with its stepped feel can cater to typists who enjoy a more responsive and tactile typing experience.
Overall, both the Gateron Type A linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch offer unique qualities that can cater to different preferences. If you are looking for a switch with a deeper and more subdued sound profile, the Type A may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a light touch and a stepped tactile feel, the Violet Gold Pro could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style, but rest assured that both options can provide a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Type A linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, consider the Type A if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a deeper sound profile with options for neutral or subdued sound. The Type A is ideal for those looking for a medium-weight switch that offers a unique typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium tactility, fairly light touch, and a neutral sound profile, the Violet Gold Pro is the way to go. This switch provides a balanced typing experience with a stepped feel for those who enjoy a two-stage tactile sensation. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and tactile feel to ensure the best typing experience for your needs.
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