Gateron Tactile Switches: The Complete Guide

In this article, we're going to explore the entire lineup of Gateron switches, from their innovative silent options to their high-performance gaming switches. Gateron has established itself as a leading switch manufacturer, offering unique material blends and different types of tactile bumps.

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Baby Kangaroo and Quinn

These Baby Kangaroo and Quinn switches share identical tactile characteristics despite their different appearances. Both feature a substantial 67g bottom-out force and deliver a notably crisp, snappy tactile feedback. The key difference lies in their housing materials: Baby Kangaroos use a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a louder release sound due to polycarbonate's increased stiffness. The Quinns, featuring nylon in both top and bottom housings, produce a rounder, more understated sound profile, particularly noticeable in the top-out sound.

EF Grayish

Part of Gateron's ultra-budget EverFree lineup, the EF Grayish offers mild tactility and a subdued sound signature. While not the most memorable option in Gateron's lineup, these switches' attractive price point at roughly 20 cents per switch makes them a compelling choice for budget-conscious builders.

LongJing

Gateron's newest tactile switch, the LongJings, introduces an all-POM construction, marking a first for their tactile lineup. POM switches typically deliver a distinctive sound profile - bassy and slightly hollow - while maintaining exceptional smoothness. The LongJings feature a medium-weight 55g bottom-out force, making them lighter than approximately 60% of available switches. These switches represent a significant addition to the light tactile category.

Green Apple

The Green Apple switches serve as the heavy variants of the LongJings, sharing their all-POM construction. They produce a slightly louder sound profile compared to their lighter siblings and command a higher price point. While they occupy the A-tier for general use, heavy typists might consider them S-tier contenders.

Weightlessness and Mini i

These Weightlessness and Mini i switches represent lighter variants of the Quinn and Baby Kangaroo designs, featuring reduced tactile bumps compared to their heavier counterparts. With bottom-out forces lighter than 80% of switches, they maintain an enjoyable snappy feel while offering a lighter tactile experience. The Mini i produces a louder, more resonant, and clackier sound signature, while the Weightlessness delivers a more subdued acoustic profile.

Aliaz

A veteran in the silent tactile category, the Aliaz distinguishes itself with a uniquely heavy typing experience, featuring a 75g bottom-out force that exceeds 97% of available switches. While this positions it in a niche category, it excels in its intended role, particularly appealing to heavy typists seeking silent operation.

Beer

The Gateron Beer stands out as the most unique option in the lineup, combining a substantial tactile bump with an ultralight 50g spring weight - lighter than 90% of switches. This unexpected pairing creates a distinctive typing experience, complemented by a loud, high-pitched clacky sound signature. The Beer appeals to both light tactile enthusiasts and those who appreciate pronounced tactile feedback.

Jupiter Brown and Jupiter Banana

These budget-friendly options share similar characteristics, with the Jupiter Bananas featuring a 69g bottom-out force and the Jupiter Browns slightly heavier at 70g. Both deliver medium-loud sound profiles but differ in travel distance - the Jupiter Bananas offer a shorter 3.4mm travel while the Browns maintain a traditional 4mm travel. At 28 cents per switch, both represent solid B-tier options.

G Pro 3.0 Brown

Part of Gateron's gaming-focused lineup, the G Pro 3.0 Brown features a translucent top housing designed to enhance RGB lighting effects. Performance-wise, it closely resembles the Jupiter Brown but offers a slightly lighter feel, earning its place in the B-tier alongside its siblings.

Conclusion

Whether you're building a keyboard for gaming, office work, or pure enthusiasm, Gateron's diverse switch lineup offers options to match every need. Their attention to detail in sound design, feel, and reliability makes them a compelling choice for any mechanical keyboard build.