Buy Low Profile Switches: GATERON Grey Heron Performance Review

While mechanical keyboards are becoming slimmer, many still prefer the feel of a mechanical switch. This means they need to use low profile switches.

For users looking to buy low profile switches, the GATERON KS-33 low profile 3.0 grey heron is a unique choice. It is a linear switch with an entirely full-POM material construction. This review will analyze the build quality, specs, and typing performance of this switch and how they benefit the user.

Understanding Low Profile Switch Design

First we need to understand low profile switch design. MX switches with reduced travel and a lower profile range usually comprise the internals of low-profile switches. This feature makes low profile switches ideal for small and portable slim design mechanical keyboards.

However, one of the key challenges of low profile switch design is creating a good compromise between key stability, sound, and smooth travel with high durability. A key challenge of a low profile switch is the internal construction of the switch. Creating a strong guide with good material selection becomes increasingly important.

Why Full-POM Construction Matters

Polyoxymethylene or POM, is a good choice of material for mechanical components that require a high degree of precision and have a lot of moving parts (it is low friction and wear resistant). When combined with a good design, the whole switch can be made from the same material.

Some benefits of full POM construction are:

•   Smoothness: The low friction of POM helps reduce the resistance of moving parts to almost negligible levels.

•   Consistency: Due to the strong wear resistance of the construction, it will retain its shape during the life of the product.

•   Acoustics: POM naturally produces a softer sound than other plastics.

The GATERON Grey Heron uses POM for its stem, top housing, and bottom housing. Utilizing an internal material system, GATERON focuses on streamlining the switch and refining its acoustic performance.

GATERON KS-33 Grey Heron

Typing Experience: Smoothness, Sound, and Stability

1. Smooth Linear Feel

Thanks to its full POM construction and lubrication, this switch offers an incredibly consistent linear movement. In addition, the vertical movement of the switch is incredibly smooth and offers very low resistance, making this switch ideal for even the longest of typing sessions.

With a total travel distance of 3.5mm, the movement is heavily dampened and provides much more control and a softer bottom-out than many other mechanical switches. Additionally, the sound is much more deep and less sharp and will not disturb others in a shared workspace.

2. Improved Key Stability

Due to the nature of low profile switches, stem stability is very hard to control. Therefore, with the KS-33 Low Profile 3.0 switches, we have added a dual-rail inspired element for stem guiding.

Along with an off-center press, this design will noticeably reduce the amount of key wobble and increase the overall control of the switch, especially when paired with low profile keycaps.

3. RGB Performance and Light Diffusion

When building a switch with RGB in mind, the design of the switch is going to play a huge role in light diffusion and even distribution.

The Grey Heron V2 has a new internal design and a refined texture design to help control and even the brightness across varying angles of a switch and improve the overall consistency of the switch and help diffuse light across the switch more effectively.

Compatibility Considerations Before Buying

Although the GATERON KS-33 Grey Heron uses a physical 5-pin layout, compatibility is not determined only by pin configuration. Low profile switches require matching PCB spacing, socket design, and housing clearance.

Currently supported keyboard platforms include:

•   NuPhy Nos75

•   NuPhy Kick75

•   NuPhy Air75 V3

•   NuPhy Node75

Before you Buy Low Profile Switches, always confirm compatibility with your specific keyboard model. Installing low profile switches into unsupported boards may result in alignment issues or improper key operation.

Grey Heron V1 vs V2

The main difference between the two versions is the RGB light diffusion improvement rather than a change in typing.

Practical Applications

The GATERON Grey Heron fits multiple scenarios for low profile keyboards.

•   Office and Professional Level Typing: The writing flow is improved by the straight and smooth travel.

•   Casual Gaming: Enables comfortable control of keys with a short distance to travel.

•   Portable Keyboards: Fits with slim design of portable keyboards.

Final Evaluation

The GATERON KS-33 Low Profile 3.0 Grey Heron is a good example of how the low profile switch user experience can be improved with material and structural design choices.

Full POM provides a good low profile switch user experience with smooth travel, a good sound, and consistent performance over time. The new light guide in the V2 version helps with the RGB and the design with dual rails adds more stability.

Potential buyers should be aware that low profile switches typically have constraints when it comes to the keycaps and compatibility.

The GATERON Grey Heron stands out as a compelling option in the growing low profile switch market with a focus on high quality and a high level of stability, and smoothness.

FAQs

Q1. Are the GATERON Grey Heron switches RGB Enabled?

GATERON Grey Heron switches are RGB enabled and support SMD RGB lighting.

Q2. Are GATERON Grey Heron switches linear?

GATERON Grey Heron switches are linear.

Q3. What are the benefits of Full POM switches?

Switches fully made of POM give a smoother experience and have lower friction.

Q4. Is the GATERON Grey Heron good for long typing?

Yes, it is due to the smooth feel and medium actuation force.

Q5. Are Low Profile switches better than regular switches?

Low Profile switches have a smaller travel distance and therefore are more responsive than regular switches.