Gateron Type S vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Gateron Type S and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
We're excited to compare and contrast two exceptional mechanical keyboard switches - the Gateron Type S and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, both linear switches with unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Type S offers a weightier keystroke at 65g bottom-out and a pleasing sound signature that leans towards a neutral yet deeper acoustic experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° revolutionizes silent typing with its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, providing unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that reduces noise. While the Type S is best for those who prefer a weightier keystroke, the Zero Degree 0° excels in silent typing and stability. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision on which switch suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
18mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Type S and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, the main difference lies in their top housing materials. The Type S features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic absorbing more sound. In contrast, the Zero Degree 0° utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in material leads to distinct auditory experiences when typing on the switches, with the Type S offering a duller and rounder sound, while the Zero Degree 0° provides a more clear and resonant sound.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing material, both the Type S and Zero Degree 0° use nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to that of the top housing of the Type S. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Therefore, while the top housing materials offer a contrasting sound experience between the two switches, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures a consistent sound profile in terms of depth and fullness.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Type S and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The Type S with its nylon top and bottom housing provides a more subdued and mellower typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing sound. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° with its polycarbonate top housing offers a more vibrant and sharper sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy a crisper typing sound. Both switches showcase the impact that housing material can have on the overall typing experience, highlighting the importance of considering sound preferences when selecting a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Type S linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is evident that there are notable differences between the two. The Type S has a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Zero Degree 0° has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. The Type S provides a more substantial typing experience due to its higher forces, while the Zero Degree 0° may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it shorter than the Gateron Type S linear switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Zero Degree 0° switch may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Type S switch may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience. Both switches offer a unique feel and performance, ensuring that users will get similar results, just with a slight difference in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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, the Gateron Type S offers a neutral and subdued acoustic experience that strikes a pleasing balance, leaning towards a deeper and more muted tone. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° revolutionizes silent typing with its self-padding design and dual-rail structure, absorbing sound and reducing noise to provide an exceptionally quiet typing experience. Both switches offer unique sound profiles catered to different preferences, with the Type S offering a more neutral and deeper sound compared to the more muted and quiet sound of the Zero Degree 0°.
Considering the feel of the switches, the information provided does not specifically mention the tactile feedback or overall typing experience of either the Gateron Type S or the Zero Degree 0°. However, based on the innovative features such as the weightier keystroke of the Type S and the smooth, stable, and elastic feel of the Zero Degree 0°, it can be inferred that both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
In conclusion, the Gateron Type S and the Zero Degree 0° offer distinct sound profiles and potentially different tactile experiences. Whether you prefer a neutral and deeper sound with a weightier keystroke or a quieter typing experience with a smooth and stable feel, both switches provide unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences in sound and feel, as both switches offer unique characteristics that can cater to a variety of typing styles.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Gateron Type S and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switches, consider the bottom out force and sound profile that best suits your typing preferences. If you prefer a medium-heavy keystroke and a sound signature that leans towards neutral and subdued, the Type S may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you value a silent typing experience with unparalleled smoothness and stability, the Zero Degree 0° with its innovative self-padding design could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, the decision boils down to your individual preferences for typing feel and sound when choosing between these two Gateron switch options.
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