Gateron Beer vs. Cherry MX Purple RGB

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Beer and Cherry MX Purple RGB both stand out as impressive options, each catering to different preferences and typing styles. The Gateron Beer switches, inspired by the sparkling essence of Tsingtao beer, provide a unique tactile experience with their lightweight feel and stepped tactility, which creates a subtle bump that enhances typing without overwhelming the user. This switch also delivers a delightful clacky sound signature, making it a great choice for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches offer a more refined tactile experience, featuring a short, medium-strength bump that strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort. Developed in part through collaboration with keyboard enthusiasts, these switches are ideal for users who appreciate a consistent tactile response without excessive noise. Both switches have their distinct characteristics, making them appealing for different uses—whether for gaming, typing, or casual use. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's right for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Beer Tactile

Cherry MX Purple RGB Tactile

$6.00

$4.59 per 10

$6.19

$5.79 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Beer switches and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches, the differences become evident in both the type of materials used and the resulting sound profiles produced by each switch. The Gateron Beer features a polycarbonate top housing, which is well-known for resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound articulation that is crisp and clear. This higher rigidity of polycarbonate contributes to a resonant acoustic feedback, making it particularly well-suited for enhanced RGB lighting effects due to its translucency. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB employs a nylon top housing, which is a more traditional material in the keyboard switch arena. Nylon's inherent softness tends to absorb sound more effectively, leading to a deeper and rounder tonal quality during use.

Both switches also exhibit differences in their bottom housing materials, further influencing the overall sound and feel. Like its top housing, the Gateron Beer's bottom housing also utilizes polycarbonate, reinforcing that characteristic sharpness and clarity in sound. Meanwhile, the Cherry MX Purple RGB showcases a nylon bottom housing as well, sustaining the rich, subdued sound profile established by its top. The nylon in the bottom housing of the MX Purple RGB accentuates the deeper bass aspects of the switch, creating a bottom-out experience that feels full and rounded. In contrast, the Gateron Beer's polycarbonate bottom enhances the clarity of each keystroke, setting it apart in dynamic typing scenarios.

Ultimately, the divergence in materials used for the Gateron Beer and Cherry MX Purple RGB switches results in distinct auditory experiences when typing. While Gateron's polycarbonate setup ensures a more reactive and clear feedback - ideal for those who appreciate tactile sharpness - the Cherry MX's combination of nylon in both housing pieces offers users a softer touch and a robust sound profile. Although both switches have different materials, their unique features can appeal to various user preferences. However, if one were to seek similar results in terms of acoustic feedback and aesthetic luminosity, the polycarbonate construction found in the Gateron Beer may provide a better synergy with RGB lighting than the nylon of the Cherry MX Purple RGB.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation forces. The Gateron Beer features a lighter actuation force of 38 grams, making it more suitable for prolonged typing sessions and ideal for users who prioritize comfort during extended use. Conversely, the Cherry MX Purple RGB requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. While the Gateron Beer has a bottom out force of 50 grams, the bottom out force for the Cherry MX Purple RGB is unknown; this lack of data leaves some ambiguity regarding the pressure required to press the key all the way down. Ultimately, if a lighter switch is desired, users may gravitate towards the Gateron Beer, while those who appreciate a heavier push feel might opt for the Cherry MX Purple RGB.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch, it's clear that they differ significantly. The Gateron Beer features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Cherry MX Purple RGB offers a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Beer switch the shorter option, catering to users who might prefer a more responsive keystroke often favored in gaming. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB, with its 4 mm travel distance, provides a deeper feel that some users may find more satisfying for typing or extended use. Thus, the choice between these switches will largely depend on individual preferences for keystroke depth and response time.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Beer tactile switch stands out with its signature clacky noise, characterized as sharp, bright, and percussive. This lively auditory feedback can enhance the typing experience, creating an engaging and satisfying atmosphere as you type. While the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch does not have a detailed sound description available, it's reasonable to expect that its noise will be less pronounced due to its emphasis on a refined tactile feel. However, individual experiences may vary based on the keyboard's overall build and keycap materials.

In terms of feel, the Gateron Beer switch presents a uniquely enjoyable typing experience with its lightweight design and stepped tactility. The light actuation force allows for effortless typing, making it less taxing on the fingers during extended sessions. The stepped design offers a more mild tactile sensation compared to the stronger, more pronounced bumps found in hypertactile switches, providing a nuanced feedback that many find comfortable. The Cherry MX Purple RGB switch, although lacking detailed descriptions, is known to provide a medium-strength bump, which may favor those who appreciate a slightly firmer tactile response. Given this, the subjective feel will vary, but both switches aim to enhance typing comfort in their distinct ways.

In conclusion, both the Gateron Beer and Cherry MX Purple RGB switches offer unique tactile experiences tailored to different preferences. The Beer’s clacky sound and gentle, stepped tactile profile create a lively and comfortable typing environment, while the Cherry MX Purple RGB focuses on a more refined tactile sensation that may appeal to users seeking a solid yet softer feedback. While the exact sound characteristics of the Cherry switch are not described, users can expect it to be less intense than the Beer switch. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you prioritize an engaging auditory feedback or a considerable tactile response, as both switches will likely provide enjoyable results in their respective categories.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch largely depends on your typing preferences and the type of experience you seek. If you prefer a lightweight switch that offers a distinctive, clacky sound profile and a more nuanced tactile feedback, the Gateron Beer is an excellent choice. This switch is particularly well-suited for those who type for extended periods, as its easy-to-press nature reduces finger fatigue and adds a playful auditory element to your keystrokes. On the other hand, if you're looking for a more balanced tactile experience with a medium-strength bump that is developed with community input, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch may be the way to go. While its precise force specification is unknown, its refined bump could provide a satisfying tactile response that caters well to both typing and gaming. Ultimately, consider what feels best under your fingers, as both switches excel in their respective areas and can enhance your overall keyboard experience based on your individual needs and preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Beer Tactile

$6.00

$4.59 per 10

Learn more

Cherry MX Purple RGB Tactile

$6.19

$5.79 per 10

Learn more