In the realm of gaming or typing, the magic often lies in the keyboard you use. It’s like your wand, with its switches playing a defining role in its feel and performance. Today, let’s delve into a comprehensive face-off between two fan favorites: Gateron Brown and Cherry Brown. Buckle up for an exciting comparison!
History and Reputation
On one hand, we have Cherry, a US-based company, established in 1953 and now operating from Germany since 1979. Known for their durability and quality, they have been the largest keyboard maker for decades. On the other side of the ring stands Gateron, a relatively younger company from Southern China, established in 2000. They initially focused on manufacturing Cherry clones but quickly made a name for themselves with their unique offerings.
Performance: Feel and Feedback
Both Cherry Browns and Gateron Browns are known for their tactile bumps which offer feedback to your fingers as you type or game. However, there’s a slight difference in how these bumps are perceived. With Cherry MX Browns, you’ll feel a sharper bump while typing. In contrast, Gateron Browns provide smoother actuation with a slightly less pronounced bump.
Durability: Lifespan Matters
Let’s talk about lifespan because nobody likes to replace their gaming gear frequently. While both brands promise durability, there is quite a significant difference in terms of lifespan ratings. Cherry MX Browns take the cake with an impressive 100 million click lifespan rating compared to Gateron Brown’s still respectable 50 million clicks.
Variety: The Spice of Keyboards
While Cherry offers quick swap options ideal for gaming enthusiasts, Gateron takes variety to another level with its wider selection of quiet switches like the Ink series and milky housings.
Noise Level: Silent but Deadly?
Some gamers love the click-clack sounds of their keyboards; others prefer silent operation so as not to wake up everyone in their household during late-night gaming sessions. If you fall into the latter category, you might find that Cherry MX Browns are quieter when depressed compared to Gaterons.
Price Considerations
For budget-conscious gamers out there (and let’s face it – who isn’t?), price can be an important factor when choosing between these two options. Here’s where Gateron shines bright – they offer attractive prices that are often significantly cheaper than their Cherry counterparts.
Switch Actuation Force: The Light Touch
The actuation force of a switch refers to the amount of pressure needed to register a keystroke. This can be critical for fast-paced gaming sessions or prolonged typing marathons. While both Gateron Browns and Cherry MX Browns have a light actuation force, Cherry MX Browns are slightly lighter at 45g. However, some users find that the Gateron Browns, despite being marginally stiffer, offer a more satisfying tactile feedback.
Sound Profile: The Quiet vs The Loud
The sound each key makes when pressed is another defining feature of keyboard switches. In general, Cherry MX Browns are known for their quiet operation – a boon if you’re sharing your workspace or gaming arena with others who might not appreciate the rhythmic ‘clack-clack-clack’ of keys being pressed. Gateron Browns, on the other hand, can be louder than their Cherry counterparts but some users find this auditory feedback gratifying.
Switch Lifespan: The Long Run
When weighing up Gateron and Cherry MX Brown switches, your decision might hinge on their longevity. A switch’s lifespan, often counted in millions of keystrokes, plays a crucial part in its durability. Both offer admirable lifetimes, but Cherry MX Brown switches come out on top with a staggering 100 million keystroke lifespan, doubling Gateron’s 50 million. If you’re looking for a long-term companion for your gaming escapades, these numbers may tip the scales towards Cherry.
Color Schemes and Keycap Compatibility
Keycap customization is an aspect that many keyboard enthusiasts enjoy. Both Gateron and Cherry use similar color schemes which make it easy to differentiate between various types of switches offered by each brand. Regardless if you prefer Gateron Red for its smoothness or Cherry Brown for its tactile bump, rest assured that most artisan or third-party keycaps will fit either brand seamlessly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Are Gateron Brown switches good?
Yes, they are considered good due to their smooth actuation and lower price point.
2. How do the sounds of Gateron Brown and Cherry MX Brown switches compare?
Generally speaking, Cherry MX Browns are quieter when depressed compared to the louder clicking sound produced by Gateron Browns.
3. Which has a longer lifespan – Gateron Brown or Cherry MX Brown?
In terms of rated lifespan, Cherry MX Brown switches outlast Gateron Browns with a rating of 100 million clicks versus 50 million.
4. Can I use third-party keycaps with either switch type?
Yes! Both brands are compatible with most artisan or third-party keycaps.
5. Which switch type is cheaper?
Generally speaking, Gateron Brown switches are less expensive than their Cherry MX counterparts.
Keycap Compatibility
Lastly, if you’re into customizing your keyboards with artisan or third-party keycaps (and who wouldn’t love that personal touch?), both brands won’t give you any trouble as most keycaps are designed to be compatible with both.
In Conclusion…
Choosing between Gateron Brown vs Cherry Brown ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and priorities. If reliability and durability top your list, then investing in Cherry MX Browns might be worth it despite its higher price tag. But if you prefer smooth actuation with some tactile feedback without breaking the bank, then Gateron Browns may just hit that sweet spot for you.
We have written several articles how Gateron switches compare, you might also be interested in:
Remember at the end of the day it’s about what feels right under your fingertips because each press matters whether it’s slaying enemies or crafting that perfect email!