Gateron Beer vs. TTC Gold Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the TTC Gold Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch. The Gateron Beer switch stands out for its unique translucent green color that evokes the appeal of a Tsingtao beer bottle. It is known for its lightweight feel and stepped tactility, offering a subtle tactile feedback that is accompanied by a characteristic clacky sound. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red switch provides a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance. It offers a snappy sound profile that adds personality to your keyboard without being too loud. While the Beer switch is 'clacky' and 'easy-to-press', the Gold Red switch is 'thocky' and 'polished'. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Beer and the TTC Gold Red both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that are intended to be used with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Gold Red switches feature a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the stiffer polycarbonate. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of feel, the bottom housing of a switch has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressed down. Therefore, the nylon bottom housing of the Gold Red switches will provide a different tactile experience compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Gateron Beer. However, when it comes to the sound produced when letting go of a key, the material of the top housing plays a larger role. Both the Beer and the Gold Red feature polycarbonate top housings, so in this aspect, they will provide a similar sound profile when keys are released.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Beer and the TTC Gold Red comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. The stiffer polycarbonate housings of the Beer may appeal to those who prefer a sharper and crisper sound, while the softer nylon bottom housing of the Gold Red may be more suitable for those looking for a deeper and fuller sound profile. Additionally, the aesthetic considerations of a clear housing for RGB lighting may also play a role in decision-making. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the overall typing experience. The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the TTC Gold Red linear switch, which has an actuation force of 43 grams. Both switches have a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of force required to fully press the keys. The lighter actuation force of the Beer switch may appeal to users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, while the slightly heavier actuation force of the Gold Red switch may offer a more substantial typing experience for those who enjoy a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation force and typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the TTC Gold Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Gold Red switch has a longer travel distance compared to the Beer switch. A shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for faster response times, making the Beer switch a suitable choice for gaming. On the other hand, the Gold Red switch may be more appealing to those who prefer a deeper keystroke and more tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing experience.
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 TTC Gold Red has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red for $3.28.
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 characteristic clacky sound signature, producing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed, reminiscent of opening a bottle of beer. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red linear switch provides a thocky sound profile that is deep, rich, and satisfying, with a touch of snappiness that adds personality without being overwhelming. Depending on personal preference, one may prefer the crispness of the Beer or the deep thud of the Gold Red.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is described as easy-to-press and stepped, offering a gentle resistance with a subtle stepped tactility that enhances typing precision. In comparison, the TTC Gold Red linear switch is characterized as mild, silky, subtle, and polished, providing a buttery smooth typing experience with minimal resistance and an exceptionally smooth key travel. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience, with the Beer being lighter and more tactile, while the Gold Red offers a smoother linear feel.
Considering the sound and feel qualities discussed, the Gateron Beer tactile switch and TTC Gold Red linear switch offer distinct typing experiences. The Beer switch emphasizes a lighter, clacky sound and a stepped tactile feel, while the Gold Red switch focuses on a smooth, thocky sound and a silky, polished typing feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, users can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired result. Ultimately, both switches provide quality options that cater to different preferences and typing styles, ensuring a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the TTC Gold Red linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you prefer a clacky sound with a light touch and stepped tactility, the Beer switch may suit your typing style. On the other hand, if you enjoy a thocky, low-pitched sound with a smooth and silky typing experience, the Gold Red switch might be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on how you want your keyboard to sound and feel during your typing sessions. Happy typing!
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