Gateron Beer vs. Keygeek Keylin

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, preferences can often be a matter of personal taste and typing style. The Gateron Beer, a tactile switch, invites users to revel in its unique stepped tactility and lightweight feel, reminiscent of the effervescent sensation of popping open a Tsingtao beer bottle. Its clacky sound signature adds an engaging auditory dimension to the typing experience, making it a great choice for those who appreciate feedback without sacrificing ease of use. On the other hand, the Keygeek Keylin presents a contrasting yet equally appealing option with its linear design, crafted using new molds for a smoothly gliding experience and rich acoustics. This switch caters to users who prefer uninterrupted keystrokes, offering an elegant escape from the tactile bumps that characterize other switches. Ultimately, both switches serve distinct purposes, catering to different typing preferences and styles. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Beer Tactile

Keygeek Keylin Linear

$6.00

$4.59 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the Keygeek Keylin switches, a clear distinction emerges between the polycarbonate and nylon choices. The Gateron Beer utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, which contributes to a sharper, crisper sound profile. This material's inherent stiffness allows for a more resonant acoustic experience, making it particularly appealing to gamers and typists who prefer a high-pitched sound. In contrast, the Keygeek Keylin is constructed with nylon housing for both the top and bottom. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound waves more effectively, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile that is often preferred by those who seek a more rounded acoustic experience. This fundamental difference between the materials directly influences the typing feel and sound quality for each switch.

Despite the stark contrasts in material composition, both switches possess unique qualities that cater to different user preferences. The Gateron Beer’s polycarbonate construction ensures that it excels in producing clear and vibrant audio, especially suitable for RGB setups since polycarbonate is translucent. However, this very characteristic may limit the switch's ability to provide a warmer sound. On the other hand, the Keygeek Keylin embraces the classic nylon for its ability to create a softer and muffled sound, ideal for users who may find the sharper tones of polycarbonate switches overpowering or less pleasant. Users looking for auditory feedback preferences will likely gravitate toward one material over the other based on their tactile experience.

Furthermore, the interaction between the housing materials and the overall performance of the switches highlights their acoustic identities. With the Gateron Beer, the impact of the polycarbonate material is felt both during actuation and in the key release, leading to a sound quality that is distinctly bright and clear. In contrast, the Keygeek Keylin’s nylon housing imbues the switch with a warmth that resonates more in the bottom-out sound, creating a smooth typing experience. If you were to create hybrid switches using a combination of polycarbonate and nylon, you would achieve an interesting mix: a switch that balances the sharpness of polycarbonate with the rounded mellowness of nylon. For users who appreciate both sound profiles, experimenting with these combinations could lead to unique auditory experiences that embrace the best of both worlds.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, both share an identical actuation force of 38 grams, making them similarly light and well-suited for users who favor a softer touch for extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons. However, the bottom out forces differ slightly, with the Beer switch reaching 50 grams compared to the Keylin's 48 grams. This means that while both switches provide a light typing experience, the Gateron Beer switch requires a marginally heavier force when pressed all the way down. Consequently, users who prefer a more substantial experience may gravitate towards the Gateron Beer for its slightly stronger bottom out feel. Nonetheless, both options are relatively light, making them ideal for those looking for comfort during prolonged use.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, the Beer has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Keylin measures at 3.6 mm. This makes the Gateron Beer the shorter switch, providing a snappier, more responsive feel that many gamers might prefer for quick key presses. In contrast, the Keylin's slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm offers a more substantial depth that some users appreciate for a more deliberate typing experience. If you're looking for less abruptness and a feel that encourages a gentler typing rhythm, the Keylin's longer travel may be more appealing. Hence, while the Beer may be deemed better for speed, the Keylin caters to users who value a pronounced tactile experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The auditory experience of the Gateron Beer tactile switch is characterized by its distinctively clacky sound profile. This means that when these switches are pressed, they produce a sharp and snappy feedback that is crisp and bright, lending itself to a percussive typing experience. The clack resonates well with typists who enjoy an audible confirmation of their keystrokes, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the typing process. In contrast, the Keygeek Keylin linear switch does not have a specified sound profile, which typically suggests a quieter operation since linear switches are designed to minimize noise. However, it should be noted that the sound produced by any mechanical switch can be influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard construction and keycap materials, so while the Keylin may be quieter by nature, the final sound can vary significantly.

When it comes to feel, the Gateron Beer switch offers a lightweight and easy-to-press experience, which means minimal effort is required to actuate the key. It’s designed with a stepped tactile profile, providing a subtle distinction during key presses that can feel more gradual compared to the pronounced bumps found in hypertactile switches. This gentle resistance helps reduce finger fatigue and makes for a comfortable typing session, especially during prolonged use. The Keylin linear switch's feel is not explicitly described, but generally, linear switches are known for their exceptionally smooth travel without any tactile bump. This means that they provide a consistent and uninterrupted keystroke, making them ideal for those who prefer a fluid typing sensation without any tactile feedback.

In conclusion, the Gateron Beer tactile switch stands out with its clacky sound and lightweight, stepped tactile feel, appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory and tactile experience. The Keylin linear switch, while less vocal, likely offers unmatched smoothness in key travel, catering to typists who favor a silent and seamless experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two will largely depend on whether you prioritize sound and tactile feedback or smoothness and quiet operation in your typing experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate the distinct tactile feedback and vibrant auditory experience, the Gateron Beer tactile switch may be your best choice. Its lightweight actuation and stepped tactility can elevate your typing experience, especially if you favor a more nuanced feel while enjoying the engaging clacky sound that adds character to your keystrokes. This switch is particularly well-suited for those who enjoy typing for extended periods, as it minimizes finger fatigue and enhances comfort. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth, uninterrupted key press experience, the Keygeek Keylin linear switch would be the ideal option. With its rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness, it provides a more linear approach to key activation, making it perfect for gamers or anyone who engages in rapid typing without the distraction of tactile bumps or sounds. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your own typing needs—whether you desire the tactile nuance of the Beer or the seamless flow of the Keylin, both switches have their unique offerings that can significantly enhance your overall keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Beer Tactile

$6.00

$4.59 per 10

Learn more

Keygeek Keylin Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more