Gateron Beer vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Beer and the Gateron Mini i offer unique features to consider. The Beer switch stands out with its translucent green design inspired by a Tsingtao beer bottle, offering a refreshing and lightweight typing experience. With a stepped tactility and a characteristic clacky sound, the Beer switch provides a distinct feel while typing. On the other hand, the Mini i switch is designed for a more subtle and professional typing experience, with gentle tactility and a fairly muted sound profile suitable for office environments. While both switches are easy-to-press and offer a comfortable typing experience, the Beer switch leans towards a more pronounced tactility and sound, while the Mini i switch focuses on a quieter and more understated feel. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the Gateron Mini i, we see that the Beer features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, while the Mini i is equipped with a nylon top and bottom housing. The polycarbonate material in the Beer creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, giving it a more resonant and clear sound when typing. On the other hand, the nylon material in the Mini i produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in sound profiles showcases how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience.
Despite the differences in sound profile, both switches share the translucency of their top housing materials, which indicates the use of polycarbonate in the Beer and nylon in the Mini i. This feature is particularly useful for those who plan to use RGB lighting as it allows for a vibrant and colorful display. However, where the polycarbonate top and bottom housing in the Beer create a consistent sound profile throughout the keystroke, the split between nylon top and bottom housing in the Mini i results in a more varied typing experience. The impact of the housing material on the sound when pressing down and releasing a key differs between the two switches, highlighting the importance of housing material in determining the overall feel and sound of a mechanical keyboard switch.
In conclusion, the choice of housing material between the Gateron Beer and the Gateron Mini i plays a significant role in shaping the typing experience. While the polycarbonate material in the Beer offers a sharper and crisper sound profile, the nylon material in the Mini i provides a deeper and fuller sound. The split between top and bottom housing materials in the Mini i leads to a more varied sound profile throughout the keystroke compared to the consistent sound profile of the Beer. Ultimately, whether one prefers the brighter and more resonant sound of polycarbonate or the deeper and fuller sound of nylon will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Weight
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 40 grams. Both switches have the same bottom out force of 50 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Beer switch may make it more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the slightly heavier actuation force of the Mini i switch may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Since both switches have the same bottom out force, the overall feel when fully pressing the keys would be similar between the two. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch both have a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressing down on a key. Both switches offer consistent feedback and actuation points despite their slightly different appearances and names. Overall, whether you choose the Beer or the Mini i switch, you can expect a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance.
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 Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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 signature, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offers a fairly muted sound profile that is described as neutral, suitable for most intents and purposes without sacrificing satisfying feedback. The sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is easy-to-press with a stepped tactility, offering a subtler feel compared to round tactility switches. This provides a responsive and low-impact typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that gives keys a lively feel. It also offers a mild and subtle typing experience with a gentle resistance, suitable for shared spaces.
In conclusion, the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Beer provides a clacky sound with easy-to-press and stepped tactility, while the Mini i offers a muted sound with bouncy and subtle typing feel. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your preference for sound and typing experience, with both switches offering lightweight designs ideal for comfortable typing.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you are looking for a switch with a distinct clacky sound signature, a light bottom out force, and a stepped tactility that offers a unique typing experience, the Gateron Beer tactile switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a more muted sound profile, a gentle tactility that is bouncy and mild, and a light bottom out force for comfortable typing over long hours in a professional setting, then the Gateron Mini i tactile switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.
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