Gateron Aliaz vs. Jerrzi Orange
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Jerrzi Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Aliaz, a tactile switch, and the Jerrzi Orange, a linear switch, offer contrasting typing experiences. The Aliaz switch is tailored for quiet environments like offices, providing a medium-heavy weight that gives each keystroke a substantial feel without the noise. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange switch is known for its clacky linear design, offering a lightweight feel and a crisp, audible feedback for a lively typing experience. Choosing the Aliaz switch would be ideal for those who prefer a pronounced typing feedback in a muted setting, while the Orange switch is perfect for enthusiasts who appreciate a responsive and vibrant 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
60g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Aliaz and the Jerrzi Orange both feature polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances clarity and resonance in the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange stands out with its nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
While both the Aliaz and the Orange utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, they differ in their choice of bottom housing material. This contrast in material affects the overall sound and feel of the switches when typing. The Aliaz's polycarbonate bottom housing continues to contribute to the sharper and crisper sound profile, emphasizing the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange's nylon bottom housing enhances the depth and fullness of the sound, creating a different tactile experience when typing compared to the Aliaz.
In summary, the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Jerrzi Orange play a significant role in the sound profile and tactile feedback of the switches. While they both share a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound profile, the Aliaz's polycarbonate bottom housing emphasizes clarity and resonance, while the Jerrzi Orange's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound. This difference in bottom housing material affects how the switches feel when pressed, offering users a choice between a crisper sound profile with the Aliaz or a deeper sound experience with the Orange.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Jerrzi Orange linear switch, it is evident that there are significant differences between the two. The Aliaz has a much heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Orange's lighter 37 grams. Additionally, the Aliaz has a higher bottom out force of 75 grams, while the bottom out force of the Orange is unknown. The Aliaz provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, which some users may prefer for a more tactile feel. On the other hand, the lighter actuation force of the Orange may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Orange linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the Aliaz has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Orange. Generally, a longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying feel when typing, as it allows for a deeper press. On the other hand, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for quicker response times. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Aliaz being slightly on the longer side. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The Jerrzi Orange has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $2.30.
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, the Gateron Aliaz switch is best suited for a quiet environment, offering a muted typing experience that minimizes noise typical of mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange switch provides a more clacky and audible feedback with each keystroke, creating a livelier and more vibrant typing experience compared to the Aliaz. Both switches, while having different sound profiles, offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a choice based on personal preference and the surrounding environment.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Aliaz switch is described as silky and polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Jerrzi Orange switch offers a lighter feel, described as feathery and easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate keys and reducing fatigue during extended typing sessions. While the Aliaz emphasizes smoothness and minimal resistance, the Orange focuses on a light actuation force for effortless and comfortable typing, catering to individuals who prefer a lighter touch when typing.
Overall, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Jerrzi Orange linear switch offer contrasting sound and feel profiles. The Aliaz provides a medium-heavy weight with a quiet and muted sound profile, ideal for those seeking a substantial typing feedback without the noise. On the other hand, the Orange switch delivers a lightweight and clacky typing experience, offering a livelier feedback with each keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, ensuring a customized and enjoyable mechanical keyboard journey for newcomers.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Jerrzi Orange linear switch, consider the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard. If you need a quiet switch for the office or a shared space, the Aliaz with its medium-heavy weight and silent design may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more lively and responsive typing experience with a lightweight feel, the Orange switch's clacky linear design could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feedback and sound as well as the specific usage scenario you have in mind.
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