<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nYou don't have to worry about spending much with Gateron. They are more affordable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Cherry MX switches are produced in Germany under strict temperature and stress testing to make sure that they last. So they are sold at a more premium price.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Although Gateron switches go through vigorous testing as well, the extent of it is unknown. Their products are also hand-made, but this is all done in China.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As mentioned, Gateron's main lineup is basically Cherry MX clones (that are done better). They come with the same design and descriptive names, at a more affordable price.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Just keep in mind that not all of Gateron switches are affordable. They have an Ink lineup that is more expensive. It has a unique design. You can check my Gateron switches guide if you want to learn more about it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Winner: Gateron Switches<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/span>3. Durability<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nCherry MX is the winner when it comes to durability. I mentioned that they go through many different tests before being sold.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Cherry MX switches can last around 100 million keystrokes before deviating from their factory conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The switches will be able to work fine, but after these 100 million keystrokes, they won't be able to follow the ideal force curve.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Gateron switches on the other hand are rated at around 50 million keystrokes before they start deviating from their factory conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Although Cherry beats Gateron when it comes to durability, it must be noted that Gaterons are quite durable in their own regard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Winner: Cherry MX Switches<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/span>4. Noise Level<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nGateron switches are quieter than Cherry ones, especially when it comes to their tactile switches. They have smoother keystrokes, so it's no surprise that they come with lower audio output since there is less friction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A lot of people, however, prefer louder switches. They make typing feel like you are using a retro typewriter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Gateron and Cherry both come with their own line of special silent switches. They come with rubber padding on the tops and bottoms to produce less sound when being pressed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
However, Cherry's lineup is not amazing. There are only 2 switches you can buy, while Gateron has more to offer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Winner: Gateron Switches<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/span>5. Variety<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nThey both have impressive lineups. However, if you compare the sheer number of different switches that they come with, it is clear that Gateron wins this round.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
They even come with a special Milk collection just to block RGB lighting in case you find it too strong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Cherry does offer a Speed switch collection which Gateron does not offer a replacement for. It is especially good for playing games.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Winner: Gateron switches<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/span>6. Easier to Mod<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nBoth switch types are tied when it comes to how easy they are to mod. You will be able to lube them up however you want, as well as add your own filming.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
They come with similar designs, so taking them apart to modify is also a breeze. All you need is a small screwdriver to change them the way you want.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Winner: Tied<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/span>7. Easier to Find<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nCherry MX switches have been around the longest, so it's no surprise that they are easier to find.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Quite a few mechanical keyboards come with Cherry MX switches pre-built, and use this as a selling point.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Winner: Cherry MX Switches<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/span>Are Gateron Switches Better Than Cherry?<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nIn my opinion, Gateron switches are the better choice. They are more affordable, yet are still high-quality mechanical switches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You will also be getting a bigger product selection that happens to be very smooth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It must be noted that Cherry has been in the game for a long time, and many consider them as the industry standard. Gateron has gotten quite a bit of influence from them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some users prefer Cherry MX, however. I have a couple of friends who like the tougher feel that Cherry switches provide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>Gateron vs Cherry Switches: A Detailed Comparison<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nTo give you a better idea of how Gateron and Cherry stack up against each other, I will be comparing of some of their switches below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>1. Gateron Red Switches vs Cherry Red Switches<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nCherry Reds are one of the most popular switch types on the market. They are linear, which means that you would feel no tactile bump when pressing them down. Plus, they are super smooth too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Cherry reds are one of the quietest from the whole Cherry MX switch collection. This does not mean that they completely silent. You will still hear and feel a satisfying bump from them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Gateron red switches look and feel a lot like the Cherry switch. However, they feel smoother and are more lightweight than their counterpart. They are known for being responsive as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some users have said that the Cherry red is scratchier, but I personally haven't noticed this.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\nSwitch Type<\/th>\n\n\n\n Operating Force<\/th>\n\n\n\n Actuation Distance<\/th>\n\n\n\n Travel Distance<\/th>\n\n\n\n Feel<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n\n\n\n \nCherry Red<\/td>\n\n\n\n 45 cN<\/td>\n\n\n\n 2 mm<\/td>\n\n\n\n 4 mm<\/td>\n\n\n\n Linear<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\n\n \nGateron Red<\/td>\n\n\n\n 45 cN<\/td>\n\n\n\n 2 mm<\/td>\n\n\n\n 4 mm<\/td>\n\n\n\n Linear<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/table>