Gateron Beer vs. HMX Gravel
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the HMX Gravel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between tactile and linear varieties can significantly influence your typing experience. The Gateron Beer switch stands out with its engaging tactile feedback, reminiscent of the refreshing sensation of a Tsingtao beer bottle. Known for its lightweight and stepped tactility, the Beer switch provides a distinct clacky sound, making it an appealing option for those who enjoy a more vibrant auditory response while typing. On the other hand, the HMX Gravel switch offers a smooth and refined experience favored by enthusiasts who prioritize a seamless keystroke. With its medium-light actuation force, the Gravel ensures responsive and effortless typing, catering to those who prefer a more subdued yet satisfying feel. Both switches have their unique merits: the Beer for its tactile engagement and clacky sound, and the Gravel for its fluid typing experience. 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
45g
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
3.50 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Beer and HMX Gravel feature polycarbonate top housings, which lends them a similar sound profile characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory experience. This is largely attributed to polycarbonate’s stiffness, which allows for a clear resonance when the switch is activated. Additionally, the translucence of polycarbonate enhances their visual aesthetics, particularly when paired with RGB lighting, making both switches ideal choices for users who prioritize illuminated customization. Consequently, when it comes to the top housing material, users can expect comparable auditory performance and visual appeal, suggesting an overall consistency in how these two switches represent the booming world of mechanical keyboards.
However, the key differences arise in the choice of bottom housing materials between the two switches. While the Gateron Beer employs polycarbonate for its bottom housing — contributing further to its crisp sound profile — the HMX Gravel opts for nylon. This distinction significantly influences how each switch feels and sounds when pressed. The nylon bottom housing in the Gravel is softer, absorbing sound and creating a deeper, fuller sound profile that can result in a more muted experience compared to the Beer’s sharper tones. The characteristics of sound performance are split between the two housing types: the both top housings create clarity, while the Beer’s polycarbonate bottom reinforces that profile, whereas the Gravel’s nylon creates a softer feel and sound.
In practical terms, this variance in materials directly affects the overall experience of using each switch. During typing, a user will notice that the Gateron Beer offers a more consistent top-end frequency response due to both its top and bottom being made of the same material. On the other hand, the HMX Gravel’s combination allows for a fuller sound when bottoming out but less clarity during the release of the key. The interplay between the hardness of polycarbonate and the softness of nylon can provide varied tactile feedback, making one switch potentially more satisfying for certain typing preferences. Thus, while both switches may excel in light effects and initial sound properties, the contrasting bottom housing materials lead to distinctly different user experiences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces, though both switches exhibit the same bottom out force of 50 grams. The Gateron Beer has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer easier keystrokes during long typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the HMX Gravel requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, offering a more substantial push feel for users who enjoy a firmer typing experience. While both bottom out at the same force, the difference in actuation forces means that the Beer switch is better suited for users seeking a lighter touch, while the Gravel switch caters to those who favor a bit more resistance. Overall, if you desire a lighter switch with ease of use, the Gateron Beer is the optimal choice, whereas the HMX Gravel may appeal more to those who prefer a stronger tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the HMX Gravel linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Gravel switch offers a marginally deeper press compared to the Beer switch. For enthusiasts who favor responsiveness, the Gateron Beer would be the preferable choice, as its shorter travel distance can facilitate quicker key presses, making it ideal for gaming scenarios. Conversely, those who appreciate a more substantial feel when typing may find the HMX Gravel's longer travel distance to be more satisfying, as it provides a more pronounced tactile experience. Both switches align with the recent trend towards shorter travel distances, yet the Beer offers a slight edge in terms of speed and immediacy.
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 HMX Gravel has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gravel for $2.99.
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 considering the sound profile of the Gateron Beer tactile switch, it’s characterized by its clacky signature, producing a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp and bright. This lively auditory response adds an engaging element to typing, offering a percussive feedback that can be satisfying for users who appreciate acoustic feedback from their keystrokes. In contrast, the HMX Gravel switch does not have a defined sound description provided, so its auditory qualities remain unknown. However, the Beer’s distinctive clacky nature stands out as a notable feature.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Beer switch excels with its lightweight actuation and stepped tactility. The gentle resistance during key presses ensures a comfortable typing experience, reducing finger fatigue, which makes it ideal for long sessions. The stepped design allows typists to feel subtle tactile feedback, a pleasant balance between comfort and responsiveness. The HMX Gravel, while described as having an exceptionally smooth and refined typing feel, shares a medium-light actuation force that also contributes to an effortless typing experience. While the Gravel lacks the definition of tactile feedback, its smoothness suggests a different kind of appeal that may attract users seeking fluid keystrokes.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Beer and HMX Gravel switches cater to users looking for engaging typing experiences, albeit through different sensory feedback. The Beer switch offers a clacky sound and a unique stepped tactile feel that enhances its personality, while the Gravel provides an incredibly smooth, responsive typing action. Depending on individual preferences, both switches deliver enjoyable experiences, but they attract different users—those who enjoy auditory feedback and tactile nuances versus those who favor pure smoothness in their keystrokes.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the overall experience you're seeking. If you enjoy a tactile feel with a bit of character, the Beer switch could be ideal for you. Its light actuation force and stepped tactility provide a gentle yet responsive typing sensation, accompanied by a distinctive clacky sound that makes each keystroke feel lively and engaging. This switch is well-suited for users who appreciate audible feedback and a bit of unique flair in their typing experience. On the other hand, if smoothness and minimal resistance are your top priorities, the HMX Gravel switch is likely the better choice. Its lightweight operation offers an effortlessly fluid typing experience without any tactile interruption, making it perfect for fast typists or those who simply prefer a more serene sound profile. The Gravel is designed for those who favor a straightforward and fluid keystroke, allowing you to focus on speed and accuracy without distraction. In the end, your decision should reflect your personal typing style and the environment in which you’ll be using your keyboard, so consider what aspects of each switch resonate with you the most.
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