Gateron Beer vs. Jerrzi Coral
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the Jerrzi Coral switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Beer and Jerrzi Coral offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Beer, with its translucent green appearance inspired by a Tsingtao beer bottle, is a tactile switch that boasts a light touch and stepped tactility for a subtle typing experience. Known for its characteristic clacky sound signature, the Beer switch is ideal for those who prefer an easy-to-press key with a distinct feedback. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Coral is a linear switch that provides a crisp typing feel with a lower-pitched resonance, offering a sophisticated and smooth keystroke experience. While the Coral switch is categorized as low-pitched and silky, the Gateron Beer is described as clacky, easy-to-press, and stepped. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Beer and the Jerrzi Coral both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, the Jerrzi Coral also boasts a polycarbonate top housing with similar qualities, making it a suitable option for those looking for a sharp and resonant sound profile.
While the Beer utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing for a sharp sound profile, the Coral features a nylon bottom housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than polycarbonate, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. This difference in bottom housing material will affect the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, with the Beer providing a sharper impact and the Coral offering a more cushioned typing experience.
In terms of overall sound production, the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the Jerrzi Coral complement each other. The split between the two housings allows for a dynamic sound experience when typing on these switches. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing will impact the sound when letting go of a key, while the softer nylon bottom housing will influence the bottom-out sound and feel. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, whether it be a sharp and resonant sound or a deeper and fuller typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Jerrzi Coral linear switch, which has an actuation force of 40 grams. This means that the Beer switch will require less force to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Beer switch also requires less force at 50 grams, while the bottom out force of the Coral switch is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Beer switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Coral switch may be more suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Jerrzi Coral linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the Coral has a longer travel distance compared to the Beer. Typically, a longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying keypress for some users who prefer a deeper press. However, those looking for a quicker response time may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Beer switch. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that have become popular, especially among gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired keypress experience.
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 Jerrzi Coral has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Coral for $2.30.
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 tactile switch offers a clacky typing experience, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This distinctive sound adds a certain brightness and percussiveness to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Coral linear switch provides a low-pitched resonance, giving a more mellow and bass-heavy tone to typing. Depending on your preference for keyboard sound, the Beer switch may be more suitable for those who enjoy a sharper and more pronounced sound, while the Coral switch would cater to individuals who prefer a deeper and smoother typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is described as easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable. Additionally, it boasts a stepped tactility, providing a subtle two-stage keystroke feel. Conversely, the Jerrzi Coral linear switch offers a silky smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance and enhancing overall smoothness during key presses. This difference in feel caters to different preferences, with the Beer switch focusing on a light and responsive typing experience, while the Coral switch prioritizes a smooth and effortless keystroke.
Taking into consideration the sound and feel qualities of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Jerrzi Coral linear switch, it is evident that they offer distinct typing experiences catering to different preferences. The Beer switch provides a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel with stepped tactility, while the Coral switch offers a low-pitched sound and silky smooth typing feel. Depending on whether you prefer a sharper, more pronounced sound with light actuation or a deeper, smoother sound with effortless keystrokes, you can choose between the Gateron Beer and Jerrzi Coral switches to suit your typing style and preference. Although they offer different qualities, both switches ensure a high-quality typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Jerrzi Coral linear switch, consider the characteristics that best suit your typing preferences. If you prefer a light and easy-to-press switch with a subtle tactile feel and a clacky sound signature, the Gateron Beer tactile switch may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a smooth and silky typing experience with a lower-pitched sound profile, the Jerrzi Coral linear switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to personal preference and typing style, so choose the one that aligns best with your individual needs and preferences.
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