Gateron Beer vs. HMX Hibiscus
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the HMX Hibiscus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often comes down to personal preference in terms of tactile feedback and sound profile. The Gateron Beer switch offers a unique tactile experience that evokes the sparkling allure of a refreshing Tsingtao beer. Its lightweight design features a stepped tactility, providing a distinct yet subtle feedback that is less pronounced than traditional tactile switches, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a clacky sound while typing. In contrast, the HMX Hibiscus switch prioritizes smoothness with an ultra-light actuation force, delivering an exceptionally pristine typing experience. Known for its satisfyingly clacky and poppy sound, the Hibiscus switch is appealing for typists who crave a seamless and swift keystroke. Each switch has its merits; the Gateron Beer offers a delightful tactile engagement, while the HMX Hibiscus promotes fluidity and speed. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
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
T3
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the HMX Hibiscus switches, we observe a notable contrast between the types of plastics they utilize. The Gateron Beer switch employs polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings. Known for its stiffness, polycarbonate contributes to a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile when typing. This quality not only enhances clarity but also supports RGB lighting due to its translucency, allowing light to pass through effectively. In contrast, the HMX Hibiscus switch features nylon for both its top and bottom housings. Nylon's characteristics lend themselves to a deeper, fuller sound profile, absorbing sound more effectively than harder plastics. This fundamental difference in material composition leads to distinct auditory experiences when using each switch.
As a result of these material differences, the overall typing experience between the Gateron Beer and HMX Hibiscus can be quite different. With the Beer switch's polycarbonate makeup, users can expect a more resonant sound that is ideal for environments where clarity is prized, such as gaming or typing in quiet settings. The Hibiscus, on the other hand, captures sound in a way that is softer and slightly muffled, making it suitable for users who enjoy a more subdued typing experience. When these switches are pressed, the Beer’s polycarbonate bottom housing amplifies the sharper sound profile, whereas the Hibiscus’s nylon bottom housing contributes to a more rounded and muted auditory cue.
In scenarios where the top and bottom housing materials differ, these contrasts can produce varied effects on the tactile and auditory sensations experienced during use. For instance, in a switch where the top housing is made of polycarbonate and the bottom of nylon, the typing sound upon key release would be clearer and punchier, while the bottom-out sound would feel more muted and fuller. In the case of the Gateron Beer and HMX Hibiscus, both switches utilize the same material type throughout, allowing each switch's distinctive sound and feel to be predictable and coherent. Users can rely on the polycarbonate's brighter resonance or the nylon’s softer tones, depending solely on their preference for the type of switch they choose.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, we see some interesting differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Beer switch features an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it the lighter option overall. In contrast, the Hibiscus switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 42 grams but a lower bottom out force of 48 grams. This means that while the Hibiscus requires a bit more force to register a keystroke, it bottoms out at a lighter weight than the Beer switch. For users who prefer a lighter typing experience suited for extended use, the Gateron Beer would be preferable. Conversely, those who enjoy a more substantial feel while typing might appreciate the Hibiscus, despite its higher actuation force. Overall, the Beer switch is the lightweight choice, while the Hibiscus offers a moderately heavier engagement for those who seek a firmer typing sensation.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, it is evident that the Beer switch features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Hibiscus has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. This 0.1 mm difference indicates that the Hibiscus switch allows for a marginally deeper key press than the Beer switch. For those who value a more immediate response—typical in gaming scenarios—the shorter travel distance of the Beer switch may be preferable, offering a quicker reaction time. Conversely, enthusiasts who appreciate a more substantial feel in their key presses might lean towards the Hibiscus, as its longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying tactile experience. Thus, the Beer switch is the shorter option, while the Hibiscus is the longer one, catering to different user preferences in tactile feedback and responsiveness.
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 Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus 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 it comes to sound, the Gateron Beer tactile switch offers a distinctive clacky sound signature, characterized by a sharp, snappy tone that brings an enjoyable auditory experience while typing. This clackiness contributes to a keyboard experience that feels lively and engaging. The HMX Hibiscus linear switch, while also noted for its satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, is less defined in its auditory characteristics. However, both switches can provide a vibrant typing sound that adds to the overall enjoyment, though the Beer may yield a more pronounced auditory presence given its specific clacky description.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Beer switches are recognized for their easy-to-press mechanism, requiring minimal force for actuation. This feature enhances comfort, allowing for extended typing with reduced finger fatigue. Additionally, they exhibit a stepped tactility, offering a nuanced feel that distinguishes them from the more substantial feedback found in hypertactile switches. The HMX Hibiscus switches are described as providing an unparalleled smoothness, making typing effortless. The tactile feedback for the Hibiscus isn’t detailed, but the emphasis on smooth actuation suggests a seamless experience, potentially contrasting with the Beer’s more defined stepped tactility.
In summary, the Gateron Beer tactile switches excel in delivering a lively auditory and tactile experience with their clacky sound and carefully engineered feedback. They offer a unique combination of easy actuation and a subtle stepped feel that can enhance the typing experience, especially for those who appreciate tactile feedback. The HMX Hibiscus switches focus on smoothness and also provide a satisfying sound, hinting at a different typing experience that prioritizes fluidity over tactile distinction. While each switch has its unique qualities, both can satisfy enthusiasts looking for different yet enjoyable mechanical keyboard experiences.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, it's essential to consider your typing style and preferences. If you appreciate a tactile sensation combined with a light and easy press, the Beer switch is an excellent choice. Its unique stepped tactility provides a nuanced feedback that can make typing feel both effortless and engaging, while the clacky sound adds a lively element to your keystrokes, perfect for those who enjoy auditory feedback as they type. On the other hand, if you prioritize an ultra-smooth and linear typing experience, the Hibiscus switch may be more to your liking. With its light actuation force and satisfying sound signature, it caters to those who prefer a noiseless and fluid keypress, ideal for long typing sessions without overwhelming tactile feedback. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you seek a tactile, engaging typing experience (Beer) or a smooth, uninterrupted flow (Hibiscus).
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