Gateron Beer vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, there are key differences to consider. The Gateron Beer switch, with its translucent green design inspired by a Tsingtao beer bottle, offers a unique tactile experience with a stepped tactility that is easy to press. Its characteristic clacky sound adds to its overall appeal, making it a popular choice among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch provides a similar typing experience to the MX Red switch but with a notable difference - silent operation. This makes it an ideal option for those who prefer a quieter typing experience, especially in noise-sensitive environments. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the Cherry MX Silent Red, we can see some distinct differences. The Beer uses a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Silent Red uses a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The polycarbonate top housing is stiffer and more resonant, leading to a clear sound, whereas the nylon top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Aesthetically, the polycarbonate top housing is translucent and ideal for RGB lighting, while the nylon top housing is a classic choice for switches.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Gateron Beer features a polycarbonate bottom housing, continuing the sharper, crisper sound profile associated with polycarbonate. The Cherry MX Silent Red, on the other hand, utilizes a nylon bottom housing, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile with more sound absorption. The differing materials in the bottom housings will have an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing on each switch. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Beer will enhance the sharpness of the bottom-out sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the Silent Red will contribute to a softer and more absorbent bottom-out sound.
Overall, the choice of housing material for each part of the switch plays a significant role in the sound profile and feel of typing on the Gateron Beer and the Cherry MX Silent Red. While the polycarbonate and nylon top housings offer distinct sound characteristics, the polycarbonate and nylon bottom housings also contribute different qualities to the typing experience. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their chosen housing materials, showcasing how material selection can impact the overall performance of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
Comparing the Gateron Beer tactile switch to the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, the actuation force of the Beer is lighter at 38 grams compared to the 45 grams of the MX Silent Red. This means that the Beer switch will require a lighter touch to register a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Beer switch also requires less force at 50 grams compared to the unknown force of the MX Silent Red. This means that the Beer switch will feel lighter and easier to press all the way down. Some users may appreciate the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Beer switch for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the slightly heavier actuation force of the MX Silent Red for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference based on individual typing style and preference for keypress weight.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the Gateron Beer has a shorter travel distance compared to the Cherry MX Silent Red. A shorter travel distance can provide faster response times, making it preferred by gamers. On the other hand, a longer travel distance may feel more substantial and satisfying for those who prefer a deeper keystroke. Both switches offer different typing experiences due to their unique travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a shorter travel distance, the Gateron Beer tactile switch may be the better option for you. However, if you enjoy a longer travel distance, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch may be more suitable.
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 Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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 offers a distinctive clacky sound signature, giving a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch provides a muted and thocky sound profile, significantly quieter than a regular switch due to its silent operation. The low-pitched tone of the MX Silent Red adds a bass-heavy and mellow quality to the typing experience, contrasting with the brighter sound of the Beer switch.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is characterized by its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. The stepped tactility of the switch provides a more gradual and subtle tactile feedback, enhancing the typing experience with a responsive and low-impact feel. In comparison, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch is described as textured, indicating noticeable friction when pressed, which may appeal to users seeking a slightly rougher typing sensation.
Overall, the Gateron Beer tactile switch excels in providing a light, easy-to-press key feel with a clacky sound profile, offering a different tactile experience with its stepped tactility. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch stands out for its silent operation and textured feel, catering to users who prefer a quieter typing experience with added friction. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches would depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing style. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, you should consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a clacky sound with a unique translucent design and a light actuation force, the Beer switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with a slightly heavier feel and a smooth texture, the MX Silent Red switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the environment in which you will be using the keyboard. Both switches offer their own distinct characteristics, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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