Gateron Beer vs. HMX Lotus (Heavy)

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Beer and HMX Lotus (Heavy) offer two distinct yet intriguing options that cater to different typing experiences. The Gateron Beer, a tactile switch, captures attention with its lightweight design and stepped tactility, providing a more nuanced feedback than the usual smooth linear feel. Not only does it evoke the refreshing spirit of a Tsingtao beer bottle with its translucent green housing, but it also delivers a clacky sound signature that adds a fun auditory element to typing. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch opts for a linear design, which, combined with its medium-heavy weight of 62.5 grams, ensures a satisfying bounce and a bright, resonant sound with each keystroke, perfect for those who prefer a smoother and uninterrupted typing experience. While the Beer switch is ideal for users who appreciate tactile feedback and a distinctive sound, the Lotus (Heavy) caters to those looking for a plush, linear feel that enhances flow and speed. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Beer Tactile

HMX Lotus (Heavy) Linear

$6.00

$4.59 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron Beer and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches contrast significantly in their housing materials, which directly influences their sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Gateron Beer features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, known for its high stiffness and transparency. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, ideal for typing where clarity and resonance are favored. The fact that polycarbonate is less absorbent allows it to project sound more effectively, making it especially compatible with RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housings, promoting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer than polycarbonate and has sound-absorbing properties, which leads to a sound that is duller and rounder, creating a more muted typing experience.

The fundamental differences in sound characteristics between the two switches arise from the materials used in their housings. While the Gateron Beer produces a sound that is crisp and bright thanks to its polycarbonate construction, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) excels at offering a warmer and more subdued auditory experience due to its nylon makeup. The Gateron Beer’s sound profile excels in situations where clarity is paramount, for instance, in a setting where precise auditory feedback is necessary, like programming or gaming. Conversely, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) is designed for users who may prefer a sound that is less jarring and offers a more tactile, plush experience—ideal for long typing sessions or creative work where durability and comfort take precedence.

However, despite these contrasts, there are noteworthy similarities in how both housing materials affect the overall experience of the switches. Both switches, whether utilizing stiffer or softer plastics, will influence the sound and feel depending on the configuration of the top and bottom housings. For instance, the polycarbonate housing of the Gateron Beer will provide a clear audible response when releasing a key, while the nylon incapacitates some of that sound to offer a softer release in the HMX Lotus (Heavy). Regardless of the sound profile, users can achieve optimal performance and feel by understanding how the top and bottom housings interact; the Gateron Beer will yield higher-pitched clarity and resonance, while the HMX Lotus (Heavy) will provide a more rounded sound and plush tactile feedback.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, a notable distinction is evident in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gateron Beer has a relatively light actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) features a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, appealing to users who appreciate a more substantial typing experience. Therefore, the Gateron Beer is the lighter switch, while the HMX Lotus (Heavy) is the heavier option. The difference in actuation force suggests that users of the Beer may experience less fatigue during prolonged use, while the Lotus might be favored by those who enjoy a firmer feedback upon keystrokes, contributing to a more pronounced tactile experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, the Gateron Beer features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Lotus (Heavy) has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Beer switch is the shorter option, providing a more responsive feel, which can be advantageous for gamers seeking faster reaction times. On the other hand, the Lotus (Heavy) switch, with its longer travel distance, may be more appealing to those who prefer a deeper, more substantial keypress, contributing to a different typing experience. While the differences in travel distance are minimal, they can significantly influence how each switch feels during use, depending on personal preference.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Beer tactile switch stands out with its distinct clacky sound signature, characterized by a crisp, bright, and percussive tone that provides an engaging auditory experience when typing. This sharp and snappy sound can enhance the overall feel of your keyboard, making every keystroke feel more satisfying. While the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switch lacks a specific sound description, it is noted to produce a bright, resonant sound. Therefore, users can expect a lively auditory feedback from both switches, though the Beer may offer a sharper contrast compared to the more resonant characteristics of the Lotus.

In terms of feel, the Beer switches are recognized for their easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate, which makes typing comfortable and reduces finger fatigue during prolonged sessions. The stepped tactile feedback gives it a two-stage feel, providing a subtle rise during the keystroke, unlike round tactile switches that have a continuous curve. On the other hand, the Lotus (Heavy) switch is described as having a medium-heavy weight of 62.5g and a super bouncy feeling, delivering an invigorating typing experience. While both switches aim to enhance user comfort and engagement, the Beer switch is more lightweight and approachable, whereas the Lotus will provide a more deliberate resistance that caters to those who enjoy heavier activation.

In conclusion, while the Gateron Beer tactile switch and HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch present distinct sensory experiences, they both offer vibrant auditory feedback that can contribute positively to the typing experience. The Beer is ideal for users seeking a lightweight, easy-to-press switch with stepped tactility and a clacky sound. In contrast, the Lotus appeals to those who prefer a heavier actuation alongside its bright, resonant sound. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and keystroke feel, but both have their unique attributes to enhance your mechanical keyboard setup.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you prefer a switch that offers a light actuation force and a distinctly tactile feedback, the Beer switch would be an ideal choice. Its appeal lies in the effortless typing experience it provides, making it suitable for extended sessions where comfort is paramount. The clacky sound signature further enhances its playful character, making it a fun option for both typing and gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a firmer resistance and enjoy a more pronounced, bouncy feel in your key presses, the Lotus (Heavy) switch is the way to go. Its medium-heavy weight ensures that you won't accidentally trigger keys, making it a fantastic choice for more deliberate typing or gaming scenarios that demand precision. Both switches have their unique charms, so consider how you type and what you value most in a switch—whether it's the lightness and tactility of the Beer or the satisfying weight and bounciness of the Lotus—to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Beer Tactile

$6.00

$4.59 per 10

Learn more

HMX Lotus (Heavy) Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more