Gateron Beer vs. Durock Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the Durock Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Beer and Durock Light Tactile switches both offer unique characteristics to consider. The Gateron Beer switch stands out with its mesmerizing translucent green design inspired by Tsingtao beer bottles. Known for its lightweight feel and stepped tactility, this switch provides a subtle tactile feedback with a characteristic clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a gentle tactility that contrasts sharply with the sharper tactile switches on the market. With an angelic tactility and jelly-like sound signature, this switch is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. Both switches have their appeal depending on personal preferences and typing style; 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
52g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Polycarbonate
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The main difference between the Gateron Beer and the Durock Light Tactile housing materials lies in their bottom housings. The Beer features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Light Tactile boasts a nylon bottom housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound. This contrast highlights how the material used in the bottom housing can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a switch.
On the other hand, both the Gateron Beer and the Durock Light Tactile feature polycarbonate top housings. This means that they will both possess similar sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profiles. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also allows for translucency, making it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. Therefore, while the bottom housing materials differ between the two switches, their top housings provide a common ground in terms of sound profile and aesthetics.
In conclusion, the choice between the Gateron Beer and the Durock Light Tactile ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. The Beer's polycarbonate bottom housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, while the Light Tactile's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches share the benefits of having a polycarbonate top housing, allowing for a clear and resonant sound profile that is perfect for RGB lighting setups. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a sharper sound profile with the Beer or a fuller sound profile with the Light Tactile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Durock Light Tactile switch, it is evident that the Beer switch is lighter in terms of both actuation force and bottom out force. The Beer switch has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option overall. In contrast, the Light Tactile switch is heavier, with an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams. This difference in weight is significant, as it can impact the typing experience for users. Those looking for a more effortless typing experience may prefer the Beer switch, while those who prefer a more substantial push feel may opt for the heavier Light Tactile switch. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches highlight the importance of weight considerations when selecting a switch for a keyboard.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Beer has a shorter travel distance compared to the Light Tactile. The shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm on the Beer may provide a faster response time, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Light Tactile with a longer travel distance of 4 mm might offer a more satisfying key press experience for those who prefer a deeper actuation feel. Both switches have their own advantages based on individual preferences, with the shorter travel distance on the Beer switch catering to those seeking a quicker response, while the longer travel distance on the Light Tactile switch provides a more deliberate key press experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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 is known for its characteristic clacky sound, producing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile, suitable for various environments and typing preferences. The choice between the two will largely depend on personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard, including the type of board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is described as easy-to-press, offering minimal resistance during key presses and enhancing the typing experience with its low-impact feel. It also features a stepped tactility, providing a subtle two-stage sensation compared to other switches. In contrast, the Durock Light Tactile switch is known for its gentle tactility and mild typing experience. Additionally, it boasts a polished finish, resulting in smooth key travel and reduced friction. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, albeit with slightly different tactile characteristics.
Overall, both the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Durock Light Tactile switch have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Beer switch offers a more noticeable tactility and clacky sound, the Light Tactile switch provides a gentler typing experience with a neutral sound profile. Depending on whether you prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback or a smoother typing experience, you can achieve similar results with either switch by considering your individual preferences and setup. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and the overall typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Durock Light Tactile switch, consider the bottom out force of each switch. If you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom out force of 50 grams, along with a unique translucent design and a clacky sound signature, the Gateron Beer tactile switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, along with a gentle tactility and a neutral sound profile, the Durock Light Tactile switch may be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, it comes down to your personal typing style and preferences in terms of actuation force, sound, and feel. Choose the switch that best complements your typing experience and enjoy the satisfying tactile feedback each switch has to offer.
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