Gateron Beer vs. Kailh BCP
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the Kailh BCP switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Beer and Kailh BCP each offer unique experiences suited to different preferences. The Gateron Beer, with its striking translucent green design, is celebrated for its lightweight and tactile nature, marked by a distinct stepped tactility that provides a more nuanced feedback compared to the typical smooth operation of linear switches. Its clacky sound signature not only enhances the typing experience but also adds a playful element reminiscent of popping open a refreshing beverage. In contrast, the Kailh BCP focuses on delivering a smooth and elastic feel, reminiscent of the beloved Black Cherry Pie. With its creamy texture and bouncy action, it offers a more fluid and continuous typing experience, ideal for those who prefer linear switches without the tactile bump. While both switches have their merits, the choice really boils down to personal preference in sound and feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
52g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 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
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-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the Kailh BCP switches reveal distinct characteristics that play a significant role in the overall sound profile and typing experience of each switch. The Beer switch utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, known for its rigidity and translucence. This choice of material contributes to a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, lending a clear and resonant quality to every keystroke. Aesthetically, the polycarbonate housing’s transparency enhances RGB lighting effects, making the switch visually striking, which is often a crucial factor for gamers and keyboard enthusiasts who prioritize illuminated keyboards.
In contrast, the Kailh BCP switch opts for nylon for its top and bottom housings, a material historically recognized for its softer nature. This results in a deeper, fuller sound profile that absorbs more sound than harder plastics like polycarbonate. Consequently, the typing experience on the BCP switch is characterized by a duller and rounder sound, appealing to users who prefer a more muted feedback. The aesthetic appeal of nylon is not as pronounced as polycarbonate, but its durability and sound dampening qualities contribute to a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience without the vibrant visual effects offered by RGB-compatible polycarbonate.
When comparing the performance of the two switches, it’s essential to note that the differences in sound and feel stem from the materials used in their housings. With the Gateron Beer, the consistent use of polycarbonate establishes a clear and resonant typing experience, whereas the Kailh BCP’s use of nylon gives a more subdued and rounded feedback. If one were to use a combination of these materials, the mid-range tonal qualities would blend, but the final sound profile would ultimately depend on the housing configuration. For instance, if a switch incorporated a nylon bottom housing with a polycarbonate top housing, the transitioning effects of the two materials would yield an outcome that combines sharpness with depth, showcasing how crucial housing material selection is in crafting the tangible and auditory aspects of keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, we find a noticeable difference in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Gateron Beer has a light actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a lighter touch, ideal for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Kailh BCP linear switch has a significantly heavier actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, catering to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Consequently, users looking for a lighter switch would gravitate towards the Gateron Beer, while those seeking a heavier, more responsive push would prefer the Kailh BCP. The differences in force profiles make it clear that these switches serve distinct preferences, with the Beer offering less resistance and the BCP providing a more robust feedback during use.
Travel distance
When comparing the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, we see a slight difference in their travel distances. The Gateron Beer has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Kailh BCP features a longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Gateron Beer offers a more responsive keypress, making it suitable for gamers who prefer quicker actuation. In contrast, the Kailh BCP, with its longer travel distance, may provide a fuller, more tactile typing experience that some users might find preferable for general use or typing. Ultimately, if you value responsiveness, the Gateron Beer would be the better choice, while the Kailh BCP might appeal to those who enjoy a bit more depth in their 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 Kailh BCP has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the BCP for $4.75.
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 is characterized by its distinct clacky sound signature, which produces a crisp and percussive tone with every key press. This sharp auditory feedback can enhance the typing experience by providing clear confirmation of each stroke, creating an engaging and lively atmosphere as you type. On the other hand, the Kailh BCP linear switch does not have a specific sound profile mentioned, making it difficult to directly compare its auditory effects to those of the Beer. However, generally, linear switches tend to be quieter than tactile or clicky switches, implying that the BCP may offer a smoother and less pronounced sound experience, especially relevant in quiet environments where noise could be a concern.
In terms of feel, the Beer switch stands out for its lightweight, easy-to-press design, which allows for minimal resistance during key presses. This feature not only makes typing comfortable and reduces finger fatigue over long sessions but also contributes to an overall responsive typing experience. The stepped tactile response gives it a unique quality, as users can feel a distinct bump, creating a more nuanced keystroke compared to a more typical continuous curve found in other tactile switches. In contrast, the quality of the BCP linear switch’s feel isn’t specified, which leaves a gap in assessing its tactile experience. Generally, linear switches are known for their smooth actuation without tactile feedback, leading to a consistent keystroke without the bumps present in tactile switches like the Beer.
In summary, the Gateron Beer tactile switch offers a lively clacky sound and a lightweight, stepped tactile feel that enhances the typing experience with its engaging audio and comfortable key response. In contrast, the Kailh BCP linear switch may favor a smoother actuation but lacks a detailed auditory profile and specific tactile feedback qualities. For those who appreciate a dynamic auditory experience and a responsive yet gentle typing feel, the Beer switch is an appealing option. The BCP, while providing its own benefits, may cater to users who prefer a smoother, quieter keystroke, although its exact characteristics are less defined. For similar results in terms of sound or feel, it's crucial to consider the overall keyboard setup, including keycaps and the type of switch plate used, as they can significantly influence the typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter touch and a more relaxed typing experience, the Gateron Beer’s low actuation force of 50 grams and refreshing tactile feedback make it an excellent choice, especially for extended typing sessions where comfort is key. The distinct stepped tactility and clacky sound can also add a fun character to your typing, making it ideal for those who enjoy a playful and engaging keyboard experience. On the other hand, if you favor a more robust and assertive typing feel, the Kailh BCP's medium-heavy actuation force of 63.5 grams delivers a firmer response that can enhance your control while typing or gaming. The creamy, elastic feel combined with the satisfying poppy feedback might appeal to users seeking a balance of performance and enjoyment. Ultimately, align your choice with what you seek in a mechanical switch: whether it's the lighter, more tactile interaction with the Beer or the bouncy, linear satisfaction of the BCP.
Mentioned in this article
