Gateron Beer vs. Bsun Light Sakura

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular contenders emerge: the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch. The Gateron Beer is celebrated for its unique stepped tactility, providing a delightful tactile bump that enhances typing feedback while offering a lightweight experience reminiscent of a refreshing Tsingtao beer bottle. With its distinctive clacky sound profile, it’s ideal for users who enjoy an auditory enhancement while typing. On the other hand, the Bsun Light Sakura excels in providing a silent and ultra-light feel, making it the perfect choice for those who prioritize discretion and comfort, especially during long work sessions or in shared environments. Each switch offers distinct advantages: the Beer for its engaging tactile feedback and sound, and the Light Sakura for its quiet, fatigue-reducing operation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Gateron Beer Tactile

Bsun Light Sakura Linear

$6.00

$4.59 per 10

$4.00

$3.49 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron Beer and Bsun Light Sakura switches both feature polycarbonate as their housing material, encompassing both the top and the bottom. This shared choice of material results in a very similar sound profile characterized by sharper, higher-pitched sounds and a crisp auditory response. Polycarbonate is recognized for its stiffness, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. The translucency of polycarbonate also allows for effective use of RGB lighting, making both switches ideal for aesthetic customizations while ensuring a visually striking experience. Therefore, when utilizing these switches in a keyboard, users can expect comparable sound qualities, enhancing the overall acoustic experience.

While both switches utilize polycarbonate in their housing, the uniformity in material means the characteristics contributing to the sound and feel are integrated throughout each switch. The impact of the bottom housing can be observed in the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback during keystrokes, while the top housing significantly influences the sound produced when releasing a key. Although the construction and tolerances of the two switches may vary slightly in design, the use of the same polycarbonate material unifies their acoustic signatures. Because of this, users will find that both switches will yield a harmonious typing experience, with similar sound profiles and aesthetics across the board.

It's important to note that while the physical properties of the polycarbonate material lend themselves to a defined auditory clarity, the overall performance and nuance of each switch may differ slightly based on the design considerations implemented by each manufacturer. Users often appreciate the subtle distinctions that arise from variations in switch architecture despite the homogeneity of the housing material. Consequently, even though both switches utilize polycarbonate in their construction, keyboard enthusiasts may find that the tactile feel and performance could vary slightly, depending on specific design optimizations. Nonetheless, the shared polycarbonate material in both the Gateron Beer and Bsun Light Sakura switches ensures that users will experience a generally consistent and enjoyable keystroke experience.

Weight

The comparison between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch reveals notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gateron Beer has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Bsun Light Sakura is slightly lighter with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. Both switches are considered light, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons. However, the Beer switch requires marginally more force to actuate and bottom out compared to the Light Sakura. Consequently, users who prefer an easier, softer keystroke might gravitate towards the Light Sakura, while those looking for a slightly more substantial feel in their typing might opt for the Gateron Beer. Overall, both switches offer a relatively comfortable experience, but the Bsun Light Sakura is the lighter of the two.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch, we find distinct differences. The Beer switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Light Sakura offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Gateron Beer the shorter option, catering to those who prefer a more responsive feel, which can be particularly beneficial in gaming scenarios. On the other hand, the Bsun Light Sakura provides a deeper, more traditional experience, making it suitable for users who enjoy a more pronounced key press. The varying lengths indicate that gamers might favor the shorter Beer switch, while those seeking a more traditional keystroke might lean toward the longer Sakura switch. In summary, if you prioritize speed and responsiveness, the Gateron Beer is the optimal choice, while the Bsun Light Sakura is better suited for those who favor deeper keystrokes.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Beer tactile switch delivers a distinct clacky sound signature that adds an engaging auditory layer to the typing experience. This sharp and snappy sound is reminiscent of a crisp, bright percussive note, making it enjoyable for those who appreciate a bit of audible feedback during their keystrokes. In contrast, the Bsun Light Sakura is designed as a silent switch, prioritizing discretion and quietness, which makes it more suitable for environments where noise could be disruptive. While both switches can produce satisfying auditory experiences, the Beer offers a lively clack, whereas the Light Sakura remains hushed, creating entirely different atmospheres during use.

In terms of feel, the Gateron Beer switches are characterized by their lightweight design and stepped tactility. This unique tactility feels distinctly different from many tactile switches, providing a gentle but noticeable tactile feedback that guides your fingers through each stroke without overwhelming pressure. The Beer’s easy-to-press nature allows for extended typing sessions with minimal finger fatigue. On the other hand, while the details regarding the feel of the Bsun Light Sakura aren't specified, it can be inferred that, given its focus on comfort and extended use, it likely features a smooth actuation that favors lightness. Thus, while both switches emphasize a comfortable typing experience, the Beer’s stepped tactility might provide a more pronounced feedback that some typists prefer.

In conclusion, both the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Beer excels in providing an expressive sound and a distinct tactile sensation, while the Light Sakura focuses on silence and comfort. Ultimately, those seeking a lively typing experience with engaging acoustics may gravitate towards the Beer, while typists in shared spaces or offices might find the quietude and comfort of the Light Sakura to be more appealing. Depending on your specific typing needs and environments, you will find unique benefits in each switch, making them both worthwhile considerations.

Conclusion

To sum up, the decision between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you're someone who enjoys a tactile feedback while typing and appreciates an audible sound, then the Beer switches might be your ideal choice. Their lighter actuation force and stepped tactility provide enjoyable feedback, making typing a lively experience, particularly for those who revel in a clacky sound profile. However, if you frequently type for extended durations or work in quieter environments, the Light Sakura linear switch would likely serve you better. Its ultra-light feel minimizes fatigue without reaching for a noisy engagement, providing a gentle and smooth typing experience. In essence, consider selecting the Beer for a more engaging and tactile experience at home or in less formal settings, while opting for the Light Sakura when you need a silent, comfortable solution for shared spaces or long typing sessions.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Beer Tactile

$6.00

$4.59 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Light Sakura Linear

$4.00

$3.49 per 10

Learn more