Gateron Beer vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Beer and the Cherry MX Speed Silver offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Beer, with its mesmerizing translucent green color inspired by a Tsingtao beer bottle, is a tactile switch known for its lightness and stepped tactility, providing a more subtle feel compared to other tactile switches. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver stands out for its linear action, low spring resistance, and maximum speed capabilities, making it ideal for gamers looking for rapid response times. While the Gateron Beer offers a clacky sound signature and easy-to-press feel, the MX Speed Silver provides a textured, thocky experience with low-pitched keystrokes. 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
1.20 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the Cherry MX Speed Silver, it is evident that both switches offer unique qualities based on their housing materials. The Beer utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is especially beneficial for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the MX Speed Silver opts for nylon for both its top and bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile that absorbs more sound for a rounder sound. While both switches offer distinct sound profiles, the choice between a sharper, crisper sound (Beer) or a deeper, fuller sound (MX Speed Silver) will ultimately depend on personal preference.
The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Beer and the nylon top housing of the MX Speed Silver showcases the different impacts that housing materials can have on sound profiles. Polycarbonate's stiffness leads to a clear and resonant sound profile, ideal for those who enjoy a sharper sound experience. In contrast, nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile that may appeal to individuals seeking a deeper typing experience. Despite these differences, both switches offer quality sound profiles that cater to varying preferences, demonstrating the importance of housing materials in determining the overall typing experience.
While the top housing of a switch plays a significant role in the sound produced when a key is released, the bottom housing is equally important in shaping the bottom-out sound and feel. The Gateron Beer and Cherry MX Speed Silver exemplify how different housing materials can impact these aspects of typing. Whether it be the stiffer polycarbonate of the Beer creating a sharp bottom-out sound, or the softer nylon of the MX Speed Silver offering a more cushioned feel, both switches showcase the influence of housing materials on the overall typing experience. Ultimately, while the switches may differ in their housing materials, they both deliver quality sound profiles that cater to a range of preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, it is clear that the Beer has a slightly heavier actuation force of 38 grams compared to the MX Speed Silver's 30 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Beer is also heavier at 50 grams, whereas the bottom out force of the MX Speed Silver is unknown. This means that the Beer switch requires a slightly stronger push to activate a keystroke and also exerts more resistance when fully pressed down compared to the MX Speed Silver. In terms of weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the MX Speed Silver for longer typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer the heavier forces of the Beer for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making them equal in that aspect. When comparing the two switches, it can be noted that they offer different typing experiences despite having the same travel distance. The Gateron Beer tactile switch provides a tactile bump during actuation, giving users a more feedback-driven typing experience, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch offers a smooth keystroke with no tactile bump, allowing for faster and more fluid typing. In terms of travel distance alone, both switches offer a standard amount of key travel, providing a satisfactory typing experience for users.
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 Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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, which is sharp, snappy, and percussive. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch produces a thocky, low-pitched sound that is deep, rich, and satisfying. Despite the differences in sound profile, both switches offer a unique auditory experience that can enhance the overall typing or gaming experience based on personal preference and environment.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Beer switch is praised for being easy to press, offering gentle resistance and requiring minimal force to activate. The stepped tactility provides a subtler feel compared to other tactile switches, allowing for a more nuanced typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is described as textured, potentially providing a different tactile feedback that some users may prefer for gaming purposes. While the feel of these switches varies, both offer a responsive and engaging typing experience that can cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Considering the information provided, it's clear that the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Beer switch excels in providing a clacky sound and an easy-to-press, stepped feel, while the MX Speed Silver switch offers a thocky sound and a textured feel suited for rapid and precise keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences, whether one values a specific sound profile or tactile feedback. Regardless of the preference, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the overall typing or gaming experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light and easy-to-press switch with a subtle tactile feedback and a characteristic clacky sound, the Gateron Beer tactile switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed in your keystrokes and prefer a linear switch with low spring resistance and instant triggering, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch would suit your needs better. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value the unique features of the Beer switch or the swift responsiveness of the MX Speed Silver switch in your typing or gaming experience. Consider your preferences in sound, feel, and typing style to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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