Gateron Beer vs. Everglide Crystal Violet

Overview

When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Beer and the Everglide Crystal Violet mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Gateron Beer, with its translucent green design inspired by a Tsingtao beer bottle, offers a refreshingly lightweight and tactile typing experience. Its stepped tactility and characteristic clacky sound signature set it apart, categorizing it as 'Clacky', 'Easy-to-press', and 'Stepped'. On the other hand, the Everglide Crystal Violet provides a gentle and comfortable typing experience with its light operating force of 45g and mellow, low-pitched sound profile. Categorized as 'Creamy', 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Stepped', these switches are ideal for those seeking a relaxed 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

Gateron Beer Tactile

Everglide Crystal Violet Tactile

$6.00

$4.59 per 10

$7.08

$4.19 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron Beer and Everglide Crystal Violet both have different housing materials, with the Beer featuring a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, while the Crystal Violet has an ABS top and bottom housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while ABS tends to produce a relatively low-pitched sound when typing. This contrast in sound profiles can make a noticeable difference in the overall typing experience for users of these switches.

In terms of aesthetics, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Gateron Beer allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the keyboard. While polycarbonate is more commonly used in switch housings with clear designs, ABS in the Everglide Crystal Violet may offer a more subtle and understated look. Despite the differences in appearance, both materials provide unique characteristics to the switches, catering to different preferences in terms of keyboard design.

When it comes to the feel of typing on switches with different housing materials, the qualities of the polycarbonate and ABS will be divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. Users may find that the combination of these housing materials in the Gateron Beer and Everglide Crystal Violet creates a well-rounded typing experience, offering a balance between sound, feel, and aesthetics.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch, it is evident that the Beer is lighter in both aspects. The Beer has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Crystal Violet has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. This makes the Beer preferable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke and to bottom out. On the other hand, the Crystal Violet provides a slightly heavier typing experience, making it suitable for those who prefer a more substantial push feel while typing. Overall, those looking for a lighter typing experience should opt for the Beer, while those seeking a slightly heavier feel may prefer the Crystal Violet. Both switches provide tactile feedback, so regardless of the weight preference, users can expect a satisfying typing experience.

Travel distance

The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter compared to the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Beer offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it preferable for gamers looking for fast key presses. On the other hand, the Crystal Violet provides a deeper keypress with its longer travel distance, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches have their advantages depending on personal preferences, with the Beer being the shorter option and the Crystal Violet offering a longer travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Beer switch offers a clacky and sharp sound when pressed, creating a distinct and percussive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Everglide Crystal Violet switch produces a low-pitched and mellow tone that is gentle on the ears and less intrusive. Depending on personal preference, individuals may lean towards the energetic clack of the Beer or the soothing hum of the Crystal Violet for their typing needs.

Moving on to feel, the Gateron Beer switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force for activation, making typing effortless and comfortable. Additionally, its stepped tactility provides a unique typing experience with subtle stages of feedback during key presses. In comparison, the Everglide Crystal Violet switch offers a creamy and smooth typing sensation, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys. The mild tactile feel of the Crystal Violet, combined with its stepped design, provides users with a comfortable and approachable typing experience.

Overall, when considering the subjective qualities of the Gateron Beer and Everglide Crystal Violet switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. Whether you prefer the clacky and energetic sound of the Beer or the mellow and creamy feel of the Crystal Violet, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. It is important to try out both switches to see which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.

Conclusion

In closing, when considering which switch to choose between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a more clacky sound profile, the Gateron Beer switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a slightly heavier bottom out force, a creamy typing experience, and a low-pitched sound profile, the Everglide Crystal Violet switch might be the ideal choice. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to consider what qualities are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, whichever switch you choose, both the Gateron Beer and Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switches offer a satisfying typing experience that can enhance your overall keyboarding experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Beer Tactile

$6.00

$4.59 per 10

Learn more

Everglide Crystal Violet Tactile

$7.08

$4.19 per 10

Learn more