Gateron Beer vs. Gateron Ink Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the Gateron Ink Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering which mechanical keyboard switch to choose, the Gateron Beer and Gateron Ink Red are two options that stand out. The Beer switch evokes the sparkling allure of a Tsingtao beer bottle with its translucent green design and offers a refreshingly lightweight experience. It features a stepped tactility that provides a subtle feel and emits a characteristic clacky sound. On the other hand, the Ink Red switch is known for its lower actuation force, making it perfect for those with a lighter typing style. It is smooth, emits a crispy and clacky sound profile, and is effortless to type on. While the Beer switch is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Easy-to-press', and 'Stepped', the Ink Red switch falls under 'Neutral', 'Silky', 'Chirpy', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. Each switch offers unique features and benefits, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
60g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the Gateron Ink Red, we can see some similarities and differences. Both the Beer and the Ink Red feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharp, high-pitched sound profile. Because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, it leads to a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Ink Red's proprietary INK blend top housing is described as producing a slightly higher-pitched but not overly sharp sound, giving it a clacky sound profile. Both housings offer unique sound characteristics, with the Beer being sharper and crisper, while the Ink Red has a more pointed and satisfying sound.
In terms of the bottom housings, both the Beer and the Ink Red feature polycarbonate in the Beer and the proprietary INK blend in the Ink Red. The use of these materials in the bottom housing contributes to the overall sound profile of each switch. The stiffer polycarbonate material in the Beer leads to a sharp, higher-pitched sound profile, while the INK blend in the Ink Red creates a pointed and high-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, influencing the overall typing experience for each switch.
While the top and bottom housing materials differ between the Gateron Beer and the Gateron Ink Red, both switches offer unique sound profiles based on the materials used. The use of polycarbonate in the Beer and the INK blend in the Ink Red each contribute to the overall typing experience, with the top housing affecting the sound when a key is released and the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. Despite the differences in materials, both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, it is evident that the Beer has a lighter feel compared to the Ink Red. The Gateron Beer tactile switch has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it lighter overall. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is slightly heavier. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Beer switch, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. However, individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Ink Red switch, as it offers a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience and can cater to different preferences based on the desired feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gateron Ink Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Ink Red has a longer travel distance compared to the Beer. The Beer's 3.4 mm travel distance falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for quick response times. On the other hand, the Ink Red's 4 mm travel distance offers a deeper key press, which some users may prefer for a more solid typing experience. Ultimately, whether you prefer a shorter or longer travel distance depends on your personal preference for key feel and responsiveness. Both switches offer unique benefits, so choosing between them would depend on your individual typing needs and preferences.
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 Gateron Ink Red has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Red for $7.35.
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 provides a clacky sound profile, characterized by a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, which can add an element of excitement to typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch offers a more neutral sound profile with a chirpy undertone, adding a unique touch to the typing experience. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences that cater to different preferences, with the Beer being more pronounced and the Ink Red being more varied.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is described as easy-to-press and stepped, providing a light actuation force and a subtle tactility that enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch is silky, mild, and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth typing feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. While the Beer switch focuses on gentle resistance and a stepped tactility, the Ink Red switch prioritizes smoothness and a refined finish, providing a comfortable typing experience for users with lighter typing styles.
Overall, the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Beer switch provides a clacky sound signature and easy-to-press, stepped tactility, while the Ink Red switch offers a neutral, chirpy sound profile and a silky, polished feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing experience, users can choose between the lively and distinct characteristics of the Beer switch or the smooth and refined qualities of the Ink Red switch. Despite their differences, both switches deliver satisfying tactile feedback and performance, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience for newcomers and enthusiasts alike.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light and refreshing typing experience with a subtle tactile feel and a characteristic clacky sound, the Gateron Beer tactile switch would be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother typing experience with a lower actuation force and a crispy, clacky sound profile, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch would be more suitable for you. Consider your preferences for sound, feel, and actuation force when choosing between these two switches to find the one that best suits your typing style. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience depending on your personal preferences.
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