Zuoce Lavender vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Lavender and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Zuoce Lavender and Gateron Type A mechanical keyboard switches, you'll find that both offer unique advantages for your typing experience. The Lavender switch stands out for its exceptional smoothness and satisfying clacky sound signature, making it a great choice for those who prefer easy-to-press keys. On the other hand, the Type A switch from Gateron offers a different feel with its medium weight and deeper sound signature, appealing to users looking for a more neutral and subdued 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
48g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Zuoce Lavender and Gateron Type A switches both utilize different housing materials for their top and bottom components. The Lavender features a POM top housing, known for creating a unique and pleasing sound that is deep and muted. In contrast, the Type A uses a nylon top housing, which produces a fuller and deeper sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. While both materials result in a deeper sound profile, the POM housing of the Lavender may offer a slightly different sound experience compared to the nylon housing of the Type A.
Moving on to the bottom housings of the switches, the Zuoce Lavender and Gateron Type A continue to showcase their distinct housing materials. The POM bottom housing of the Lavender mirrors the qualities of its top housing, creating a deep and muted sound profile. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the Type A contributes to a fuller and deeper sound experience, enhancing the overall typing feel. Despite the differences in material, both bottom housings effectively impact the sound and feel of the switches, providing users with unique typing experiences based on their preferences.
When considering the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is important to recognize how the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom components of the switch. The bottom housing plays a crucial role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. While the Lavender and Type A switches may offer similar results in terms of a deeper sound profile, the choice between POM and nylon housing ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and typing feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, it is evident that both switches fall into the medium-light category. The Lavender has a slightly lighter actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Type A's 50 grams. Similarly, the Lavender has a bottom out force of 53 grams, which is slightly lighter than the Type A's 55 grams. While the differences in force between the two switches are minimal, some users may prefer the slightly lighter touch of the Lavender for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the slightly heavier Type A switch. Ultimately, both switches offer a comparable typing experience due to their similar actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, it is clear that the Lavender has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Type A has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Lavender's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Type A's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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 Zuoce Lavender linear switch stands out for its crisp and clacky sound signature, providing a sharp and snappy auditory feedback that enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch offers a more subdued and neutral sound profile, leaning towards the deeper side of the sound spectrum. Depending on personal preference, the Lavender will deliver a more pronounced and distinctive typing sound, while the Type A will provide a quieter and more understated typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Zuoce Lavender switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal force required for activation. This light actuation force reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions, providing a comfortable and responsive typing feel. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available regarding the feel of the Gateron Type A switch. However, based on its description as a medium-weight switch, it can be assumed to offer a balance between ease of pressing and tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch excels in providing a smooth and clacky typing experience with easy-to-press key presses, while the Gateron Type A linear switch offers a more subdued and neutral sound profile, potentially with a balance of tactile feedback. Depending on individual preferences for typing sound and feel, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Lavender and Type A switches will depend on whether you prefer a more pronounced typing sound and lighter key presses or a quieter sound with potentially medium-weight key presses.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a crisp and clacky sound signature with a smooth key press, the Lavender may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more neutral sound profile with a deeper tone and are looking for a medium-weight switch, the Type A could be more suitable. Ultimately, the Lavender is ideal for those who prioritize smoothness and a distinct sound experience, while the Type A caters to those seeking a compromise between actuation force and sound profile. Choose based on your personal preference and typing style to enhance your overall typing experience.
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