Gateron Beer vs. PH Studio Milk Tea

Overview

The Gateron Beer tactile switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch are two distinct mechanical keyboard switches with unique characteristics to consider. The Beer switch, with its mesmerizing translucent green design, offers a refreshingly lightweight and easy-to-press experience. It features a stepped tactility that provides a subtler feel compared to other tactile switches, along with a characteristic clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch presents a unique auditory blend with a high-pitched yet muted sound, creating a gentle balance between presence and subtlety. With a bottom-out force of just 43.5g, it's designed for prolonged typing sessions and offers an effortless typing experience. Both switches have their own appeal, but diving deeper beyond generalities will help you decide on the best switch for your specific needs.

By the numbers

Gateron Beer Tactile

PH Studio Milk Tea Linear

$6.00

$4.59 per 10

$4.50

$4.00 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the PH Studio Milk Tea, one key difference is evident in their top housing materials. The Beer utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This results in a more clear and resonant sound, particularly beneficial for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Milk Tea features a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and relatively more muted sound. While polycarbonate offers a more vibrant sound, POM provides a unique and pleasing auditory experience that leans towards a more subdued tone.

Moving on to the comparison of their bottom housing materials, a similar trend can be observed. The Beer's polycarbonate bottom housing echoes the characteristics of its top housing, ensuring consistency in sound profile throughout the switch. The stiffness of polycarbonate continues to contribute to a sharp and clear sound when the switch is pressed. Meanwhile, the Milk Tea's POM bottom housing maintains the switch's unique sound profile with a deeper and more muted tone. This highlights how the choice of bottom housing material can impact the overall feel and sound of a switch, working in conjunction with the top housing to create a cohesive user experience.

In instances where the top and bottom housings differ between switches, the qualities of each material are distinctly felt when engaging with the switch. Pressing down on the switch allows the user to experience the impact of the bottom housing material, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the key. Conversely, the sound produced when releasing a key is more influenced by the top housing material. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings emphasizes the importance of considering both materials in the design of a switch to achieve the desired sound and tactile response.

Weight

The Gateron Beer tactile switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch both have relatively light actuation forces, with the Beer requiring 38 grams and the Milk Tea needing 37.5 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Beer is heavier at 50 grams compared to the Milk Tea's 43.5 grams. This means that while both switches will provide a light typing experience in terms of actuation force, the Beer will have a slightly more substantial feel when fully pressed down. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Milk Tea may be the better option, while those who want a bit more pushback may lean towards the Beer. Overall, both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation force, making them suitable choices for those who prefer a lighter touch on their keyboards.

Travel distance

Comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, we find that the Beer has a travel distance of 3.4 mm while the Milk Tea has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Milk Tea switch offers a slightly deeper keystroke experience compared to the Beer switch. Both switches offer a travel distance that is shorter than the traditional 4.0 mm, making them suitable for those who prefer faster response times. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the shorter travel distance of the Beer switch for quicker keystrokes. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keystroke may opt for the Milk Tea switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for keystroke depth and responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, both the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch are described as having a clacky sound profile, offering sharp and snappy sounds when pressed. However, the Milk Tea switch also has elements of high-pitched, marbly, and resonant characteristics, creating a unique auditory blend that balances presence with subtlety. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can also be affected by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

Moving on to feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is known for being easy-to-press and stepped, providing a lightweight and subtly tactile experience. On the other hand, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch is described as polished and silky, offering a smooth and refined typing feel with minimal resistance. Both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience, whether it be for extended typing sessions or general use.

In conclusion, while the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch have their differences in sound and feel, they both aim to provide a satisfying typing experience for users. Whether you prefer the more lightweight and subtly tactile feel of the Beer switch or the smooth and refined feel of the Milk Tea switch, you can expect quality performance from either choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preferences and typing style.

Conclusion

To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Beer tactile switch or the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, it really comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you value a light actuation force and a unique tactile experience with a characteristic clacky sound, then the Beer switch may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a similarly light actuation force but desire a smoother typing experience with a high-pitched sound profile and polished feel, then the Milk Tea switch might be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, both switches offer their own distinct characteristics and benefits, so it's important to consider what features are most important to you when making your decision.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Beer Tactile

$6.00

$4.59 per 10

Learn more

PH Studio Milk Tea Linear

$4.50

$4.00 per 10

Learn more