Gateron Beer vs. TTC Bluish White
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the TTC Bluish White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Beer and the TTC Bluish White mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Beer stands out with its translucent green design, reminiscent of a Tsingtao beer bottle, and its lightweight feel coupled with a stepped tactility. It is also known for its characteristic clacky sound signature, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Bluish White is favored for its satisfyingly poppy typing experience and snappy sound profile. With a combination of buttery, mild, and subtle characteristics, this switch offers a polished and low-pitched feel. Each switch brings its own set of qualities to the table, making it essential to consider personal preferences when making a decision. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The main similarity between the Gateron Beer and TTC Bluish White switches lies in their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through for a visually appealing effect.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Gateron Beer features a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the TTC Bluish White utilizes a nylon bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of the Bluish White switch elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the sharper sound of the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Beer switch. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound, which can impact the overall typing experience.
In terms of the overall typing experience, the choice of housing materials for the top and bottom of a switch can significantly impact the sound and feel of the keypress. With the Gateron Beer and TTC Bluish White switches, the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials are split between the two components. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This division of housing materials allows for a diverse and nuanced typing experience, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
Weight
The Gateron Beer tactile switch and TTC Bluish White tactile switch both have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces compared to other switches on the market. The actuation force of the Beer is slightly lighter at 38 grams compared to the Bluish White's 42 grams, but both have a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that while the initial push of the Bluish White may feel slightly heavier, the overall typing experience in terms of force required is quite similar. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Beer for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may appreciate the slightly stronger push feel of the Bluish White for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer a light and comfortable typing experience with minimal force required for keypresses.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the TTC Bluish White tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prioritize quicker response times. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the shorter travel distance of the Beer switch for its fast actuation. However, individuals who prefer a more substantial key press may find the slightly longer travel distance of the Bluish White switch to be more satisfying. Overall, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to more traditional options, providing a balance between speed and tactile feedback for different preferences.
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 TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.63.
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 Gateron Beer offers a clacky sound profile, characterized by a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This creates a crisp and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Bluish White features a low-pitched sound, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone during typing. Both switches offer distinct auditory feedback, with the Beer having a brighter and more pronounced sound compared to the Bluish White's mellower tone.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Beer is described as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance and requiring minimal force to activate. This creates a comfortable and effortless typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, the stepped tactility of the Beer switch provides a subtle two-stage feel, enhancing the overall typing sensation. On the other hand, the TTC Bluish White is characterized as buttery and mild, offering a smooth and uniform typing experience that is approachable to most users. The Bluish White switch also features a stepped tactility, providing a mild and polished typing feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, the Gateron Beer and TTC Bluish White switches offer unique characteristics in both sound and feel. The Gateron Beer provides a clacky sound with easy-to-press and stepped tactile feel, while the TTC Bluish White offers a low-pitched sound with a buttery and mild typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and typing feel, both switches offer distinct options for a satisfying typing experience. If you enjoy a sharper sound with easy-to-press keys, the Gateron Beer may be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a mellower sound with a smooth and polished typing feel, the TTC Bluish White could be the perfect fit for you.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Beer tactile switch or the TTC Bluish White tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you are looking for a switch with a unique sparkling aesthetic, a light actuation force, a stepped tactility, and a clacky sound signature, the Gateron Beer may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a buttery feel, a mild tactility, a low-pitched sound profile, and a polished finish, the TTC Bluish White could be the ideal choice. Consider your typing experience, sound preferences, and aesthetic preferences when making your decision between these two tactile switches. Ultimately, the best switch for you will be the one that enhances your typing experience and suits your individual needs and preferences.
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