Gateron Beer vs. TTC Iron
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the TTC Iron switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Beer and TTC Iron are both intriguing options to consider. The Gateron Beer stands out for its mesmerizing translucent green design inspired by a Tsingtao beer bottle, with a unique stepped tactility that offers a subtler feel while still providing an easy-to-press experience. On the other hand, the TTC Iron showcases TTC's expertise in crafting distinctive switches with a pronounced clacky sound signature and buttery smooth travel for a satisfying typing experience. While the Beer is known for its clacky sound signature and easy-to-press feel, the Iron offers a mild and neutral experience with added precision. 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
41g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In terms of housing materials, the Gateron Beer and the TTC Iron offer different options for keyboard enthusiasts. The Beer's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Iron's POM top housing offers a deeper and more muted sound. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Beer allows for a clear and resonant sound, especially when combined with RGB lighting, while the POM top housing of the Iron creates a unique and pleasing sound experience. Despite these differences, both materials contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch, providing users with distinct auditory experiences.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the differences between the Beer and the Iron become more apparent. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Beer produces a sharp and crisp sound profile, similar to its top housing, while the POM bottom housing of the Iron offers a deeper and more muted sound. The bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, showcasing the impact of different materials on the overall typing experience. While the Gateron Beer emphasizes a clearer and more resonant sound with its polycarbonate bottom housing, the TTC Iron focuses on a deeper and more subdued sound profile with its POM bottom housing.
In conclusion, the choice between the Gateron Beer and the TTC Iron ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top and bottom housing of the Beer creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound, ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the POM top and bottom housing of the Iron offers a unique and pleasing sound that is deeper and more muted. Both options provide distinct auditory experiences that cater to different preferences, allowing users to customize their typing experience based on housing material properties.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the TTC Iron linear switch, it is evident that both switches have a relatively light actuation force and bottom out force. The Beer has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Iron has an actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches provide a light typing experience, making them suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find both options appealing, as they require minimal force to trigger a keystroke. Overall, the Gateron Beer may be slightly lighter in terms of actuation force, but the TTC Iron is also relatively lightweight, providing a similar typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for a slightly lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the TTC Iron linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Beer has a shorter travel distance compared to the Iron. The Beer's 3.4 mm travel distance provides a quicker response time, which can be preferred by gamers looking for fast inputs. On the other hand, the Iron's 3.8 mm travel distance offers a bit more depth in key presses, which may be more appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and how it affects the user's typing or gaming 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 Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
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, both the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the TTC Iron linear switch are described as having a clacky sound signature. This means that they both produce a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, giving a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory feedback with each keystroke. The choice of board and keycaps can also play a role in the overall sound produced by the switches.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is noted for being easy-to-press and having a stepped tactility. This means that the keystrokes require minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable, while also offering a subtle two-stage tactile feel. On the other hand, the TTC Iron linear switch is described as easy-to-press and mild, providing a gentle typing experience with a buttery smooth travel. The light actuation force of the Iron switch ensures fatigue-free typing sessions, making it a pleasing choice for both enthusiasts and everyday users.
Overall, while both switches offer a clacky sound profile, the Gateron Beer switch provides a unique stepped tactile feel, whereas the TTC Iron switch offers a smooth linear experience. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, users can choose between the two switches to enhance their typing experience. If you prefer a lighter, easy-to-press switch with a subtle tactility, the Gateron Beer tactile switch may be the way to go. If you enjoy a light, clacky switch with buttery smooth travel, then the TTC Iron linear switch could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, both switches offer their own distinct qualities and can cater to different typing preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a keyboard switch that offers a unique and refreshing typing experience with a light actuation force, subtle tactility, and a characteristic clacky sound, then the Gateron Beer tactile switch would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that provides a clacky sound, swift actuation, and buttery smooth travel, the TTC Iron linear switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Consider your typing style and what attributes matter most to you when selecting between these two switches.
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