Everglide Crystal Violet vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Everglide Crystal Violet and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Everglide Crystal Violet and the Gateron Type A offer unique typing experiences. The Crystal Violet provides a tactile feel with a light operating force of 45g, ideal for those looking for a relaxed and stepped tactile typing experience. Its sound profile is mellow and low-pitched, creating a subtle auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A offers a linear typing experience with a medium-weight switch and a sound signature leaning towards the deeper side of the sound spectrum. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that cater to different preferences. 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
ABS
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
ABS
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Everglide Crystal Violet and the Gateron Type A differ in their housing materials, with the Crystal Violet featuring ABS top and bottom housings while the Type A has nylon top and bottom housings. The ABS material used in the Crystal Violet switch housings is relatively rare for switch housings but common in keycaps, resulting in a low-pitched sound profile when typing. In contrast, the nylon material in the Type A switch housings is a classic choice known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall.
In terms of sound production, the bottom housing of both the Crystal Violet and the Type A plays a significant role in determining the overall sound profile of the switch. The ABS bottom housing of the Crystal Violet contributes to the low-pitched sound profile associated with ABS material, while the nylon bottom housing of the Type A enhances the deeper and fuller sound profile characteristic of nylon material. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be more noticeable in the bottom-out sound and feel of the keypress, showcasing the unique properties of each material.
While the top and bottom housings of the Crystal Violet and Type A switches vary in material, both housings ultimately play a vital role in the overall typing experience. The ABS top housing of the Crystal Violet and nylon top housing of the Type A influence the sound produced when releasing a key, with the ABS material creating a relatively low-pitched sound and the nylon material producing a deeper and fuller sound. Despite their differences, both housing materials contribute to the overall sound profile and feel of the switches, providing users with distinct typing experiences based on the unique properties of ABS and nylon.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, it is evident that the Crystal Violet has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Type A's 50 grams. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 55 grams, resulting in a medium-light feel overall. The lighter actuation force of the Crystal Violet may be preferred by those who enjoy typing for extended periods, while the slightly heavier actuation force of the Type A may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar bottom out force, so regardless of which one is chosen, users can expect comparable results in terms of typing experience.
Travel distance
The Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same distance in terms of key travel. Both switches offer a moderate travel distance that provides a satisfying tactile feedback for the Crystal Violet and a smooth linear experience for the Type A. Overall, while they may have different characteristics in terms of feel and feedback, their travel distance remains consistent at 4 mm for both switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Crystal Violet has an MSRP of $7.08 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Crystal Violet for $4.19.
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
When it comes to sound, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a mellow and non-intrusive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch offers a neutral sound signature with a slightly subdued quality, giving a more dampened and subtle sound when pressed. Both switches aim to provide a pleasant typing experience, with the Crystal Violet leaning towards a bass-heavy tone while the Type A offers a deeper sound spectrum. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard.
In terms of feel, the Crystal Violet switch is described as creamy, mild, and stepped, offering a smooth, gentle typing experience with a two-stage tactile feel that is comfortable for prolonged use. In contrast, information regarding the feel of the Gateron Type A linear switch is not available. However, based on the characteristics of a neutral sound profile and the innovative design of the "Project Rehash," it can be inferred that the Type A switch likely offers a balanced and pleasant typing feel.
In conclusion, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch both bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the Crystal Violet excels in providing a mellow sound profile and a creamy, stepped typing experience, the Type A offers a neutral sound signature with a slightly subdued quality, catering to those seeking a medium-weight switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences in sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, consider your typing preferences and priorities. If you value a gentle and comfortable typing experience with a mellow, low-pitched sound profile, the Crystal Violet may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-weight feel and a deeper, more subdued sound signature, the Type A could be the more suitable option. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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