Huano Acacia vs. Gateron Beer
An in-depth look at the Huano Acacia and the Gateron Beer switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, two intriguing options emerge: the Huano Acacia and the Gateron Beer. The Acacia, recognized for its medium-light weight and generous factory lubrication, provides a smooth linear typing experience that’s perfect for typists and gamers who prioritize speed and fluidity in their keystrokes. With minimal stem wobble, this switch ensures a solid feel without the distraction of unintended noise. In contrast, the Gateron Beer switches offer a unique tactile experience, characterized by their stepped tactility that provides a distinct feedback on each keystroke, reminiscent of the playful pop of a Tsingtao beer bottle. These lightweight switches not only deliver a clacky sound signature but also allow for easy actuation, appealing to those who enjoy a more dynamic typing sensation. Both switches have their merits, catering to different preferences—whether you seek the smoothness of linear action or the tactile satisfaction of a well-defined bump. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Acacia and Gateron Beer switches, it is clear that both types utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, which is a significant factor in producing their distinct sound profiles. The polycarbonate material is associated with a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory experience, largely due to its rigidity. This shared characteristic ensures that both switches will generate a clear and resonant sound, particularly when coupled with RGB lighting, as the translucency of the material enhances the aesthetic appeal. Because of this similarity in top housing construction, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality when typing on both the Huano Acacia and Gateron Beer switches.
In contrast, the bottom housing of the two switches diverges significantly in material choice. The Huano Acacia utilizes nylon, a classic switch material known for its sound absorption properties. This results in a deeper, fuller sound profile when typing, giving the user a duller yet more rounded auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Beer switches retain polycarbonate for their bottom housing as well, thus sustaining the same high-pitched and crisp acoustic characteristics found in their top housing. This contrast in bottom housing material means that while the top of both switches will produce a similar sound profile, the Acacia will offer a more muted and softer typing experience due to the nylon's sound-absorbing capabilities.
Ultimately, the interplay between the top and bottom housing materials dictates how each switch performs in terms of sound and feel. The Huano Acacia's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing will yield a multifaceted auditory experience where the top is bright and clear, while the bottom offers a deeper resonance. Conversely, the Gateron Beer switches, with consistent polycarbonate use in both top and bottom housings, will deliver a more uniform sound profile characterized by higher-pitched clarity throughout. Typists can thus expect varying experiences based on the unique material compositions, highlighting the significant impact that housing materials have on keyboard dynamics.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Acacia linear switch and the Gateron Beer tactile switch, notable differences arise in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Acacia features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, positioning it as a medium-light option for users seeking a balanced typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Beer has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a slightly lower bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the Beer switch more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch, allowing for longer typing sessions without excessive strain. Ultimately, while both switches are designed to cater to different preferences, the Huano Acacia is the heavier option with a stronger push feel, appealing to those who like a more substantial typing experience, whereas the Gateron Beer provides a more effortless keystroke ideal for extended use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Acacia linear switch and the Gateron Beer tactile switch, the Acacia boasts a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Beer measures slightly shorter at 3.4 mm. This means that if you're seeking a more responsive feel for gaming or quick typing, the Gateron Beer with its shorter travel distance might suit you better, providing a quicker actuation. However, if you prefer a deeper keystroke that offers a more pronounced feedback, the Huano Acacia could be the better choice with its greater depth. Overall, while both switches are relatively close in travel distance, the Acacia offers a slightly longer experience, appealing to those who enjoy a heartier keystroke.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Beer has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Beer for $4.59.
The Huano Acacia comes in at $3.39 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
In terms of sound, the Huano Acacia linear switch tends to provide a quieter typing experience, which can be appealing for those who prefer minimal auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Beer tactile switch produces a distinctly clacky sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive, reminiscent of a sharp reaction that one might associate with the effervescence of a refreshing beverage. This characteristic makes the Beer switches more suitable for users who enjoy a pronounced acoustic feedback while they type, creating a lively atmosphere during use.
When considering the feel, the Acacia switch offers a medium-light weight that, combined with generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble, ensures a smooth and pleasant typing experience right from the start. The Gateron Beer switch, in contrast, provides an easy-to-press tactile feel with gentle resistance, making it a breeze to actuate and lowering the chance of finger fatigue during long typing sessions. With its unique stepped tactile feedback, the Beer switch presents a subtler experience where the user can feel a defined change in resistance without the overwhelming sensation of a hypertactile switch. The Acacia switch may lack the stepped tactility but compensates with its overall smoothness and responsiveness.
In conclusion, while both switches offer appealing qualities, they cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Huano Acacia linear switch is ideal for those seeking a quieter and smoother experience, while the Gateron Beer tactile switch stands out for its clacky sound and lightweight, easy-to-press design. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize sound or tactile feedback, but both switches promise a satisfying interaction, making either a solid choice for a mechanical keyboard enthusiast.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Huano Acacia linear switch and the Gateron Beer tactile switch ultimately depends on your preferences and typing style. If you seek a smooth, linear experience that requires a medium-light touch—perfect for rapid, uninterrupted typing—then the Acacia is an excellent option. Its generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble deliver a satisfying feel right out of the box, making it a solid choice for both gaming and long typing sessions without finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile feedback that is lighter and more gentle, the Gateron Beer switch might be more to your liking. The unique stepped tactility offers a pleasant, mild resistance that adds an intriguing layer to your typing experience, while its clacky sound signature complements the engaging feel. Thus, if you enjoy the satisfying sound of each keypress and value comfort during extended periods of use, the Beer switch shines in this area. Ultimately, the decision boils down to whether you prioritize a smooth and consistent keystroke or a tactile feedback that adds character to your interactions with the keyboard.
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