Gateron Beer vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black

Overview

When choosing between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, you are presented with two unique options for your mechanical keyboard. The Beer switch stands out with its translucent green design inspired by Tsingtao beer bottles, offering a refreshingly lightweight typing experience with a stepped tactility and a characteristic clacky sound. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch showcases Gateron's commitment to quality at an affordable price, providing a heavier typing feel with 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force, along with a medium-high pitch sound profile. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics that may appeal to different preferences. 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

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black Linear

$6.00

$4.59 per 10

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron Beer and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Beer utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile that is resonant and clear. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black uses a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, described as clacky. While the Beer's polycarbonate bottom housing also enhances its sound profile with its stiffness, the G Pro 3.0 Black incorporates a POM bottom housing that provides a deeper and more muted sound.

The difference in housing materials between the Gateron Beer and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black results in distinct sound profiles. The polycarbonate top and bottom housing of the Beer contribute to a sharper and crisper sound, especially when using RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the INK blend top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound that is described as clacky. Additionally, the POM bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Black adds a unique and pleasing deep sound quality to the switch.

While the housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black differ, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows each part of the switch to contribute to the overall sound profile. The bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing the key. Ultimately, whether using polycarbonate or a proprietary blend like the INK blend and POM, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences.

Weight

In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, it is clear that the Beer switch is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces. The Beer switch has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch is medium-heavy, with an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams. This makes it a better choice for those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the Beer switch would be more suitable for users looking for a lighter typing experience, while the G Pro 3.0 Black switch would cater to those who prefer a heavier touch.

Travel distance

The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the G Pro 3.0 Black has a longer travel distance compared to the Beer tactile switch. The 4.0 mm travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Black is more traditional, offering a deeper key press feel, while the 3.4 mm travel distance of the Beer switch provides a slightly shorter and possibly more responsive key press. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Beer switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the longer travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Black switch. Ultimately, both switches offer unique benefits depending on individual preferences and typing styles.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is known for its clacky sound signature, producing a sharp and percussive sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch also features a clacky sound but with a more subdued quality, offering a dampened yet still crisp and bright auditory experience. Both switches provide unique sound profiles that can enhance or complement your typing experience based on personal preference and surrounding environment.

When it comes to feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance and minimal force required for activation. The stepped tactility of the Beer switch provides a more subtle and two-stage feel compared to other switches, enhancing typing comfort and reducing finger fatigue. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is described as creamy and silky, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal resistance. This switch also offers a subtle typing feel, making it suitable for shared spaces where noise levels are a concern.

Overall, while the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch have different sound and feel profiles, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to individual preferences. The Beer switch provides a lighter and more tactile typing experience with a clacky sound, while the G Pro 3.0 Black switch offers a medium-heavy linear feel with a creamy sound. Depending on your typing style, environment, and preference for sound and feel, either of these switches can elevate your typing experience to new heights. Ultimately, choosing between them would depend on your personal preferences and requirements for your mechanical keyboard setup.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences. If you prefer a light and easy-to-press switch with a unique stepped tactility and clacky sound signature, the Gateron Beer tactile switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a creamy, silky typing experience and a clacky and slightly subdued sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between these switches depends on your desired typing experience in terms of force, feel, and sound.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Beer Tactile

$6.00

$4.59 per 10

Learn more

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black Linear

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

Learn more