Gateron Beer vs. Gateron CM
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the Gateron CM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Beer tactile switch to the Gateron CM linear switch, there are distinct characteristics that set each one apart. The Beer switch is known for its translucent green appearance, lightweight feel, stepped tactility, and clacky sound signature, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy easy-to-press switches with a unique tactile feedback. On the other hand, the CM switch stands out with its full nylon housing, rich sound signature, smooth typing experience, and bouncy feel due to the lengthened, dual-staged spring. This switch is ideal for users who prefer a buttery, bassy, polished typing experience. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the Gateron CM switches offer distinct characteristics that affect the sound and feel of typing on these keyboards. The Beer features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the CM utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is more absorbent and rounder in tone. While both materials influence the sound produced by the switches, polycarbonate emphasizes clarity and sharpness, while nylon focuses on depth and fullness.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Gateron Beer and CM switches continue to diverge. The Beer's polycarbonate bottom housing mirrors its top housing, contributing to a sharper and more resonant sound profile. On the other hand, the CM's nylon bottom housing maintains its characteristic deep and full sound profile, absorbing more sound and creating a duller tone. The difference in materials between the top and bottom housings of these switches allows for a unique blend of qualities that impact the overall sound and feel of typing on each keyboard. Despite these differences, both switches offer a range of tactile and auditory experiences that cater to different preferences.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Beer and CM switches will depend on individual preferences regarding sound and typing experience. While the Beer's polycarbonate housing emphasizes clarity and sharpness, the CM's nylon housing offers a deep and full sound profile. Whether one prefers a crisper and higher-pitched tone or a duller and rounder sound, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different tastes. In the end, the housing materials of these switches play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience, offering users a variety of options to suit their preferences and needs.
Weight
The Gateron Beer tactile switch is lighter in terms of actuation and bottom out force compared to the Gateron CM linear switch. The Beer has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option. In contrast, the CM has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is medium-heavy. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Beer switch, as it requires less force to activate and bottom out. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the CM switch with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for typing and gaming needs.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular for their faster response times, making them suitable choices for gaming. If you prefer a more abrupt key press, the Beer switch with the shorter travel distance may be more appealing. On the other hand, the CM switch with the slightly longer travel distance may provide a more substantial key press for those who prefer a deeper feel when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
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 Gateron CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is known for its characteristic clacky sound signature, producing a sharp and snappy noise during key presses. On the other hand, the Gateron CM linear switch offers a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, thanks to its full nylon housing and factory lube job. Both switches provide unique auditory experiences, with the Beer switch delivering a crisper sound and the CM switch offering a deeper and richer tone.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is described as easy-to-press and stepped, providing a light actuation force and a subtle tactile bump. On the other hand, the Gateron CM linear switch is characterized as buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience with a bouncy feel due to its lengthened, dual-staged spring. Both switches prioritize typing comfort and ease, with the Beer switch focusing on a gentle resistance and the CM switch emphasizing smooth key travel and reduced friction.
In conclusion, the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Gateron CM linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Beer switch provides a clacky sound and an easy-to-press, stepped feel, the CM switch delivers a bassy sound and a buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience. Choosing between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preferences for sound and feel, but rest assured that both switches promise a high-quality typing journey with their unique characteristics.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Gateron CM linear switch, consider the key factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and enjoy a tactile typing experience with a characteristic clacky sound, the Beer tactile switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, a bassy and thocky sound profile, and a smooth, buttery typing sensation with a polished finish, the CM linear switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound characteristics.
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