Gateron switches are a popular choice for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, with a wide range of colors and options to choose from.
In this article, we’ll compare Gateron Yellow vs Black switches to help you decide which might be the best option for you.
First, I will review the yellow and the black Gateron switches, then cover each aspect of them to get an in-depth comparison between the two with factors like Durability, Feel, Gaming, and typing experience.
This will help you to decide between these two linear switches.
Why Should you Trust Me? Hi, I am Anirban Saha, an Engineer with a Specialization in Electronics and Communication Engineering. I have experience in Smart TVs, Electronics circuits, and Computer peripherals.
Let’s get started with the comparison!
Gateron Yellow Vs Gateron Black
| Gateron Yellow | Gateron Black | |
| Switch Type | Linear Switches | Linear Switches |
| Actuation force | 50g | 60g |
| Pre Travel Distance | 2mm | 2mm |
| Total Travel Distance | 4mm | 4mm |
| Pre Lubed from Factory | Yes, Slightly lubed from Factory | Yes, slightly lubed from Factory |
| Sound Level | Silent Sound | Low sound |
| Keystroke Lifespan | 50 million keystrokes | 50 million keystrokes |
Gateron Yellow Review
Gateron yellow switches are linear, quiet switches with a 50g actuation force. They are manufactured by Gateron, a company based in China. These switches are clones of the Cherry MX Red switch.
Gateron yellow switches are very similar to Cherry MX Red switches. They are both linear, quiet switches. Gateron Yellows have an actuation of 50g which is good considering a linear switch.
They are a good option for people who prefer a light touch and want a switch that is less likely to make noise.
If you are looking for a linear, quiet switch, Gateron yellow switches may be the perfect choice for you.
Pros and Cons of Gateron Yellow Linear Switches
Here are the Pros and Cons of Gateron yellow:
| Pros | Cons |
| 1. They have Smooth and consistent key presses. 2. Silent while fast typing and gaming. 3. Clicks are very fast. 4. Gateron Yellows have great Durability with 50 million actuation. | Not many cons |
- Gateron G Pro Pre-lubed Series Switches.
- Gateron pro yellow switch :3-pin Linear...
- Gateron G yellow Pro Switches is pre-lubed from...
Last update on 2023-11-23 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Gateron Black Review
Gateron Black switches are linear and have a low sound. They require 60g of actuation force, lighter than most other switches.
This makes them a good choice for people who want a low-force switch with a linear feel. They are also very quiet, making them ideal for use in noise-sensitive environments.
There are a lot of keyboard switches on the market these days. So, which one should you choose for your next build?
If you’re looking for a linear, low-sound switch with a 60g actuation force, then Gateron Black is a great option.
They’re often compared to Cherry MX Blacks, which are also linear and have a 60g actuation force. However, Gateron Blacks are slightly quieter and have a shorter travel distance.
If you’re looking for a linear, low-sound switch, Gateron Blacks might be a perfect choice.
They have a 60g actuation force, making them a good choice for those who prefer a heavier switch.
I found them to be very responsive and smooth, with little sound when typing. The feel is remarkably consistent across the keycap, and there’s no noticeable “bounce” when pressing down.
Overall, I would highly recommend Gateron Blacks if you’re looking for a linear switch that doesn’t make too much noise.
Pros and Cons of Gateron Black Linear Switches
| Pros | Cons |
| 1. Gateron Blacks have smooth clicks. 2. They actuate consistently and are very responsive. 3. They have low noise when clicked fast. 4. Gateron Blacks have great Durability with 50 million actuation. | 1. Gateron Blacks are stiffer with 60g actuation force. |
- ⏩Gateron G-PRO Black - Linear | 2mm Pre-Travel |...
- ⏩For Hot Swap Mechanical Gaming Keyboards & DIY...
- ⏩Linear: for fast, responsive gaming ; used by...
Last update on 2024-03-26 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Durability
Durability is essential in using mechanical switches for daily intensive tasks and gaming.
As per durability, both the Gateron Yellow and the Gateron Black switches are equally durable. They can be actuated for more than 50 million, which is excellent.
Typing Feel
Both switches have a lifespan of 50 million actuations, but there are some differences.
The Black switch has a slightly higher resistance, making it better for gaming, and the Yellow switch is a bit louder and has a softer feel.
Gaming Performance
Gateron switches are a popular choice for mechanical keyboards. They come in a variety of colors, including yellow and black. Some people believe that the yellow switches are better for gaming than the black switches.
In reality, there is no significant difference in gaming performance between the two types of switches. Both yellow and black switches performed equally well in reaction time, accuracy, and speed tests.
They offer a quicker response time and smoother keystrokes, ultimately leading to a more pleasurable gaming experience.
The only difference you will notice is Black switches have a slightly higher resistance which would be seen when clicked. Otherwise, they perform exceptionally well during gaming.
So if you’re looking for a mechanical keyboard with Gateron switches, don’t worry about whether to choose yellow or black – they both offer excellent gaming performance.
Typing Performance
Gateron Yellow switches are often compared to Gateron Black switches regarding typing performance. Both are linear and have a similar force curve, but some differences.
Gateron Blacks are considered stiffer than Gateron Yellows. This can be felt when typing, as Gateron Blacks require more force to actuate.
As a result, Gateron Blacks may be worse for fast typists who need to hit each key with a lot of force.
In typing, you get a small edge with the Gateron Yellow switches.
Ultimately, which switch is better for you depends on your preferences and typing style.
Which is better Gateron Black or Gateron Yellow?
Overall, in terms of performance, design, and typing feel they are very close, and the only deciding factor is that the Black switches are a bit stiffer compared to the Gateron Yellow.
Gateron Yellow switches are better than the Black switch considering it to be the lesser force required to actuate. Also, the Gateron Yellow switches are silent, whereas the Gateron black switches have very low sound.
So, if you like a silent switch, then Gateron Yellow is excellent.
- Gateron G Pro Pre-lubed Series Switches.
- Gateron pro yellow switch :3-pin Linear...
- Gateron G yellow Pro Switches is pre-lubed from...
Last update on 2023-11-23 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Gateron Yellow Vs Black FAQs
Q. Are Gateron yellow switches the fastest?
Q. Is Gateron Yellow loud?
Q. How heavy is Gateron black?
Q. Are Gateron yellow scratchy?
Conclusion
So, that’s for my comparison of Gateron Yellow vs Black.
In this comparison, I tried to cover all aspects of knowing before choosing a mechanical switch for your keyboard.
It’s no secret that Gateron switches are popular among keyboard enthusiasts.
Gateron yellow switches are an excellent option for those looking for a smooth, responsive switch.
They are perfect for gaming and typing, and black switches are a good option for those who prefer a stiffer switch.
I hope you enjoyed reading this post.
I’m Anirban Saha, Founder & Editor of TechBullish. With a B.Tech in Electronics and Communication Engineering, and 5+ years of experience as a software developer, I have expertise in electronics, software development, gadgets, and computer peripherals. I love sharing my knowledge through informational articles, how-to guides, and troubleshooting tips for Peripherals, Smart TVs, Streaming Solutions, and more here. Check Anirban’s Crunchbase Profile here.
