Gateron Beer vs. Gateron Glory Yellow

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Beer and Gateron Glory Yellow present two distinct yet appealing options tailored to different typing preferences. The Gateron Beer switch stands out with its unique tactile feedback, characterized by a stepped tactility that delivers a delightful, albeit subtle response much like the fizz of a Tsingtao beer bottle. Its lightweight design and clacky sound signature make it an exciting choice for those who enjoy a tactile sensation while typing, perfect for both casual users and gamers looking for a playful experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Glory Yellow switch caters to those who prefer a smoother, linear feel with a bit more weight behind each keystroke. Its pleasing travel distance ensures an enjoyable typing experience, making it ideal for long hours of work or gaming without the interruption that tactile bumps can introduce. Each switch has its unique strengths to offer based on individual typing style and preference; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's right for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Beer Tactile

Gateron Glory Yellow Linear

$6.00

$4.59 per 10

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron Beer switch and the Gateron Glory Yellow differ significantly in their housing materials, leading to distinct sound profiles. The Beer switch features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound quality. This is primarily due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which facilitates a more resonant audio experience. Furthermore, the clear nature of polycarbonate enhances its compatibility with RGB lighting, allowing for an appealing aesthetic when illuminated. In contrast, the Glory Yellow switch is constructed with a nylon top housing that delivers a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer plastic of nylon is more adept at sound absorption, resulting in a more subdued auditory effect that contrasts sharply with the crispness of the Beer switch.

Examining the bottom housings of these switches reveals a similar dichotomy. The Gateron Beer again employs polycarbonate for its bottom housing, maintaining the same advantages of clarity and resonance, resulting in a consistent sound profile characterized by high pitches. Meanwhile, the Glory Yellow's nylon bottom housing contributes to the switch's overall audio character by providing a softer impact sound, further emphasizing depth and roundness. The differences in materials effectively split the sound qualities, where the Beer switch will feel and sound clearer while the Glory Yellow will present a more enveloping auditory experience from bottom-out to release.

In practical terms, if you were to compare the performance of switches with these different housings, the distinct sound characteristics assigned to the top and bottom housing materials would result in unique typing experiences. The Gateron Beer, with its polycarbonate construction throughout, will deliver a consistent crisp and clear experience, while the Gateron Glory Yellow, equipped with nylon for both top and bottom, will ensure a deeper, rounder sound profile. Thus, the pairing of different materials influences the overall sound and feel of the switches, making them appealing to different types of users depending on their preference for sound clarity versus depth.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch, a clear difference in actuation weight emerges. The Beer switch features a light actuation force of 38 grams, suitable for extended typing sessions, making it an excellent choice for both office work and long gaming marathons. In contrast, the Glory Yellow requires a heavier actuation force of 50 grams, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial keystroke feel. However, while the bottom out force for the Beer switch is 50 grams, the bottom out force for the Glory Yellow remains unspecified. This means the Beer switch provides a consistent tactile experience with a defined bottom out feel, whereas the Glory Yellow's bottom out characteristics cannot be assessed. Therefore, if you seek a lighter option, the Gateron Beer is the way to go, while the Glory Yellow offers a heavier actuation for those who prefer more resistance in their typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch, it’s clear that they differ. The Gateron Beer features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gateron Glory Yellow has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Glory Yellow provides a more substantial depth when pressed down, which can be preferable for those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback. On the other hand, the shorter 3.4 mm travel distance of the Beer switch may appeal to gamers or those seeking quicker key response times. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference: the Beer offers a more responsive feel with its shorter distance, while the Glory Yellow allows for a more traditional, deeper actuation.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Gateron Beer tactile switch is a defining feature, characterized by its clacky resonance that delivers a crisp, bright, and percussive sound with each key press. This sharp auditory feedback can enhance the engaging experience of typing, giving it a lively and invigorating quality. In contrast, the Gateron Glory Yellow switch does not have a specific description provided for its sound characteristics. However, it's worth noting that sound can be significantly influenced by the keyboard frame, keycap material, and other factors, so the ultimate auditory experience may vary with different setups for both switches.

When it comes to feel, the Gateron Beer switches shine with their lightweight and easy-to-press design, requiring minimal force for actuation. This quality promotes a comfortable typing experience, minimizing finger fatigue during long sessions. The stepped tactility adds another dimension, providing a notable distinction in the keypress that blends a gentle resistance with a refined tactile response. On the other hand, the Gateron Glory Yellow switches are heavier and aim for a smooth keystroke with a satisfying travel distance, allowing for an enjoyable experience that likely promotes a solid and stable typing feel. However, without specific descriptors for their tactile feedback or attempts at precision, the nuances of the Glory Yellow’s feel remain less defined.

In summary, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is favored for its lively sound and light, comfortable feel with stepped tactile feedback, ideal for those who appreciate auditory stimulation while typing. Meanwhile, the Gateron Glory Yellow offers a smooth, heavier experience, appealing to users who prefer stability with each keystroke. While both switches cater to different preferences, they are part of Gateron's diverse lineup, ensuring that there is a suitable option for every type of typist. Experimenting with each switch could yield similar enjoyment in keystrokes, despite their differing characteristics.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between Gateron Beer tactile switches and Gateron Glory Yellow linear switches, consider what you prioritize in your typing experience. If you prefer a lightweight feel and enjoy the tactile feedback of a stepped switch that provides a noticeable bump without being overly aggressive, the Beer switches will be a great fit for you. Their clacky sound and easy-to-press nature make them ideal for casual typing or gaming sessions, where you want both comfort and a hint of auditory excitement. On the other hand, if you lean towards a smoother and more linear typing experience, and if the absence of tactile feedback is what you desire for quick, uninterrupted keystrokes, you should opt for the Glory Yellow switches. Although these switches aren’t as detailed in their description, they are designed for those who appreciate a heavier keystroke with pleasant travel, making them perfect for long typing sessions or nuanced gaming actions. In summary, your choice should reflect your personal typing style and the specific attributes that resonate with your preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Beer Tactile

$6.00

$4.59 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Glory Yellow Linear

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

Learn more