Gateron Beer vs. Outemu Crystal
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the Outemu Crystal switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Beer and the Outemu Crystal. The Gateron Beer is a tactile switch that evokes the sparkling allure of a Tsingtao beer bottle with its mesmerizing translucent green design. With a stepped tactility that offers a subtler feel compared to other tactile switches, the Beer is best known for being easy-to-press and producing a characteristic clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal is a linear switch that offers a unique typing experience with its elastic feel and medium-light weight. These switches are known for their chirpy and high-pitched sound profile, making them polished and smooth to type on. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Beer and the Outemu Crystal feature polycarbonate top and bottom housing materials, which means they will both exhibit similar qualities in terms of producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate plastic also leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile, making it a popular choice for switch housings that aim for excellent sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that utilize RGB lighting, allowing for a visually appealing experience when combined with lighting effects.
Although both switches share the same housing material, the Gateron Beer and the Outemu Crystal may have subtle differences in the way the top and bottom housings affect overall sound and feel. When it comes to typing experience, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel as it directly impacts the keypress itself. On the other hand, the top housing influences the sound when the key is released, affecting the overall auditory experience. Despite these differences, both switches will provide users with a similar experience due to the shared use of polycarbonate in their housing materials.
In conclusion, the Gateron Beer and the Outemu Crystal both excel in providing a clear and resonant sound profile thanks to their polycarbonate top and bottom housing materials. The aesthetically pleasing translucent nature of polycarbonate also enhances the overall experience, particularly for those who enjoy RGB lighting effects. While there may be slight variations in how the top and bottom housings impact the typing experience, both switches ultimately offer a similar level of performance and quality due to their shared use of polycarbonate in their construction. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference or specific features desired by the user.
Weight
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Outemu Crystal linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Beer requires 50 grams, while the Crystal needs 55 grams, making the Beer lighter in this aspect as well. Both switches provide a relatively light typing experience, making them suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions where prolonged use is required. However, for those who prefer a slightly more substantial typing feel, the Outemu Crystal switch might be the better choice due to its slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces. Overall, the Gateron Beer switch offers a lighter typing experience, while the Outemu Crystal switch provides a balance of lightness and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The Beer has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Crystal has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Beer's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for quick response times, while the Crystal's longer travel distance might provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
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 Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40 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 Gateron Beer tactile switch offers a clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy noise upon actuation, giving users a satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal linear switch is described as having a chirpy and high-pitched sound, setting it apart from other switches with a unique acoustic signature. Depending on your preference, the Beer switch leans towards a brighter and percussive sound, while the Crystal switch offers a more lively and high-pitched tone.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable. Additionally, it features a stepped tactility, providing a subtle two-stage key press experience for enhanced typing feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal linear switch boasts a polished feel, offering a smooth and refined key travel experience with reduced friction. This results in a sleek typing sensation that may appeal to those looking for a more refined typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a clacky sound profile and an easy-to-press, stepped tactile feel, the Gateron Beer switch may suit your preferences. Alternatively, if you enjoy a chirpy, high-pitched sound with a polished and smooth key travel experience, the Outemu Crystal switch could be a great option. Ultimately, both switches provide distinct characteristics that can enhance your overall typing experience, depending on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Beer tactile switch or the Outemu Crystal linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a light and tactile typing experience with a unique clacky sound signature, the Beer switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light linear switch with a polished finish for smooth key travel and a neutral sound profile, the Crystal switch could be more fitting. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider which factors are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the best switch for you will be the one that enhances your typing experience and keeps you satisfied in the long run.
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