Gateron Beer vs. TTC Gold Red Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the TTC Gold Red Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Beer and the TTC Gold Red Pro offer unique experiences for users seeking different tactile sensations. The Gateron Beer is a tactile switch that stands out for its translucent green color reminiscent of a Tsingtao beer bottle. It provides a light and stepped tactility, offering a more subtle tactile feedback compared to other switches. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro is a linear switch known for its versatility, providing an easy-to-press experience with a neutral sound signature suitable for any setting. While the Beer switch is described as 'clacky' and 'easy-to-press', the Gold Red Pro is characterized as 'polished', 'thocky', and 'low-pitched'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Beer and the TTC Gold Red Pro switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for users who prioritize sound quality in their keyboard switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting compatibility, adding a visually appealing element to the switches.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Gateron Beer utilizes polycarbonate while the TTC Gold Red Pro features a nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Beer continues to enhance the sharp and clear sound profile associated with polycarbonate, while the nylon bottom housing of the Gold Red Pro provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. This difference in bottom housing material will impact the overall sound and feel of typing on the switches, as the bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel.
Overall, both switches offer unique sound profiles and tactile experiences due to their housing materials. While their top housings are made of the same polycarbonate material, the differences in their bottom housings (polycarbonate for the Beer and nylon for the Gold Red Pro) result in distinct typing experiences. Users can expect a sharper and crisper sound from the Beer, while the Gold Red Pro will provide a deeper and fuller sound due to its nylon bottom housing. Ultimately, both switches offer quality components that contribute to a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, it is clear that the Beer is the lighter option. The Gateron Beer has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro has an actuation force of 43 grams, with an unknown bottom out force. While the actuation force of the Gold Red Pro is slightly heavier than the Beer, the bottom out force remains uncertain. For those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience, the Gold Red Pro may be the preferred choice due to its higher actuation force. In terms of weight, those who favor a lighter typing feel may lean towards the Gateron Beer, whereas those who prefer a heavier push feel may opt for the Gold Red Pro. Both switches offer unique sensations, so depending on individual preference, users can achieve similar results with either option.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Beer has a shorter travel distance compared to the Gold Red Pro. The Beer's 3.4 mm distance provides a quick and responsive keystroke, making it ideal for gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the Gold Red Pro's 3.8 mm distance offers a bit more depth to the keystroke, which may be preferred by those looking for a more solid and substantial feel. Overall, the choice between the two switches would come down to personal preference based on the desired balance between quickness and depth in keystrokes.
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 Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Beer tactile switch offers a distinctive and clacky sound signature, producing a sharp and percussive noise when pressed. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch presents a more neutral and thocky sound profile, with a deep and satisfying tone that is neither too loud nor too quiet. For those who prefer a bright and crisp sound, the Beer switch would be the ideal choice, while the Gold Red Pro switch would appeal to those seeking a more mellow and harmonious typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is characterized by its easy-to-press nature and stepped tactility, providing a light and effortless typing experience with a mild tactile feedback that is gentle on the fingers. In contrast, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch offers a polished and silky smooth feel, with a mild and subtle typing experience that minimizes resistance and maximizes comfort during extended typing sessions. Whether you prefer a more tactile and responsive feel like the Beer switch or a smoother and refined typing experience like the Gold Red Pro switch, both options cater to different preferences of typing enthusiasts.
In conclusion, the Gateron Beer tactile switch stands out for its clacky sound signature and easy-to-press feel, offering a unique typing experience that is light and refreshing. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch shines with its neutral sound profile and polished, silky feel, appealing to a wide range of users with its versatility and adaptability. Whether you prioritize sound or feel in your mechanical keyboard switches, both the Beer and Gold Red Pro switches deliver on their respective qualities, providing a satisfying typing experience tailored to individual preferences. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a more tactile and lively typing experience or a smoother and more refined feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch, consider the characteristics that align with your preferences and needs. If you prioritize a light and refreshing typing experience with a clacky sound profile, the Beer switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value versatility, adaptability, and a neutral sound signature like thocky, low-pitched, and neutral switches, the Gold Red Pro switch offers a seamless typing experience suitable for various settings. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your desired sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
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