Gateron Beer vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red

Overview

When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Beer and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red mechanical keyboard switches, you have to consider what you value most in your typing experience. The Beer offers a unique tactile switch experience with its stepped tactility that is both easy to press and clacky, making it a refreshing option for those who enjoy a more distinct feedback while typing. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red provides a smooth and linear typing experience with a medium-light actuation force, making it ideal for those looking for a budget-friendly option that strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and benefits, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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 Red Linear

$6.00

$4.59 per 10

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

Both the Gateron Beer and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically speaking, the use of polycarbonate in clear housings makes them ideal for RGB lighting due to their translucency. This material choice ensures that both switches deliver a similar auditory and visual experience when it comes to typing and gaming.

However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Gateron Beer utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, echoing the same qualities found in its top housing. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. As a result, typing on the G Pro 3.0 Red will offer a distinct tactile experience compared to the Beer, with a focus on the bottom-out sound and feel.

When considering the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is essential to note that the qualities of the top and bottom housings are absorbed differently by the user. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. Whether it's the polycarbonate interplay in the Gateron Beer or the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red, understanding how each material contributes to the overall sound profile is crucial for keyboard enthusiasts looking for a specific typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Beer tactile switch to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in the typing experience. The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches share a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a similar typing experience once the keys are fully pressed. The lighter actuation force of the Beer switch may appeal to users looking for a lighter typing feel, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the G Pro 3.0 Red switch may be preferred by those seeking a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.

Travel distance

The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm. In this case, the G Pro 3.0 Red has the longer travel distance. A 4.0mm travel distance is considered to be the most traditional, offering a good balance between responsiveness and depth. On the other hand, a 3.4mm travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the G Pro 3.0 Red providing a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Beer tactile switch. Both switches, however, offer a satisfactory travel distance that will result in similar typing experiences.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is characterized by a distinct clacky sound, offering a sharp and snappy auditory experience when pressed. This sound profile provides a crisp and percussive feel that adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch is known for its neutral sound profile, which strikes a balance between actuation force requirement and sound intensity. The medium sound pitch of the G Pro Red delivers a satisfying auditory experience without being too loud or too soft. When it comes to sound, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Beer providing a more clacky and pronounced sound while the G Pro Red offers a more moderate and versatile sound profile.

In terms of feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the stepped tactility of the Beer switch provides a unique typing experience with two distinct stages during key presses. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch is described as creamy and polished, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The mild characteristics of the G Pro Red provide a gentle typing feel that is approachable to most users. Overall, both switches offer different tactile experiences, with the Beer providing an easy-to-press and stepped feel, while the G Pro Red offers a creamy and polished typing sensation.

In conclusion, the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Beer switch provides a clacky sound signature and an easy-to-press, stepped feel, catering to users who enjoy a more distinct auditory and tactile experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch delivers a neutral sound profile and a creamy, polished typing feel, appealing to those who prefer a smoother and more versatile typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, but both switches are designed to elevate your typing performance without compromising on quality.

Conclusion

In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a light actuation force and a unique tactile feel with a clacky sound signature, then the Gateron Beer switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth, buttery typing experience with a medium-light actuation force and a polished, silky feel, then the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch might be more suited to your liking. Both switches offer their own distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to consider what features are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the right switch for you will be the one that enhances your typing experience and meets your individual needs.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Beer Tactile

$6.00

$4.59 per 10

Learn more

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red Linear

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

Learn more