Gateron Beer vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch stand out as popular choices for enthusiasts seeking a unique typing experience. The Beer switch, with its mesmerizing translucent green appearance inspired by a Tsingtao beer bottle, offers a refreshingly lightweight feel and a stepped tactile feedback that is subtly satisfying. In contrast, the Outemu Blue switch is known for its distinctive clicky sound signature, making it ideal for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. Choosing between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the Outemu Blue switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This attribute makes them ideal for switches that are intended to be used with RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual effects of the lighting. However, the handling of the top housing can affect the sound when a key is released. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue switches have nylon bottom housings, which produce a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the sharper sound of polycarbonate. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall.
While the top housings of the Beer and Blue switches are both made of polycarbonate and exhibit similar sound characteristics, the key difference lies in their bottom housings. The Gateron Beer's polycarbonate bottom housing shares the same stiffness as the top housing, contributing to a consistent and clear sound profile throughout the key press. In contrast, the Outemu Blue's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound and creates a softer bottom-out sound and feel, enhancing the typing experience with a deeper tone. This distinction showcases how varying housing materials can influence the overall sound and tactile feedback of a mechanical keyboard switch.
In conclusion, the choice between the Gateron Beer and Outemu Blue switches ultimately depends on the desired sound profile and typing experience. The polycarbonate top housing in both switches provides a distinct sound signature, with the Beer offering a sharper and crisper sound while the Blue delivers a fuller and deeper tone. The nylon bottom housing in the Outemu Blue adds a unique touch by absorbing more sound, resulting in a softer bottom-out experience compared to the consistent sound profile of the Beer's polycarbonate bottom housing. Ultimately, both switches offer their own advantages based on personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Outemu Blue clicky switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 50 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Beer switch makes it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions where fatigue is a concern. In contrast, the heavier actuation force of the Blue switch provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm, while the Outemu Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4mm. This means that the Outemu Blue clicky switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Gateron Beer tactile switch. The difference may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall feel and response of the switch when typing or gaming. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Gateron Beer switch, while those who enjoy a more pronounced key press may lean towards the Outemu Blue switch. Both switches offer a different tactile experience based on their travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
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 Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is known for its characteristic clacky sound, which is sharp, snappy, crisp, bright, and percussive. This sound signature adds a unique and lively element to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch does not have a specific sound description available, so it is difficult to directly compare the two in terms of sound. However, both switches are likely to provide an audible and satisfying typing experience, with the Beer switch offering a more distinct clacky sound.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate and offering a gentle resistance during key presses. This lightweight feel enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue during extended use. Additionally, the stepped tactility of the Beer switch provides a more subtle tactile response compared to other switches, adding to the overall typing experience. Unfortunately, specific information on the feel of the Outemu Blue clicky switch is not available for direct comparison.
Overall, both the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Beer switch stands out for its clacky sound signature, easy-to-press feel, and stepped tactility, which together create an effervescent typing experience reminiscent of a refreshing beer. While the specific sound and feel of the Outemu Blue switch are unknown, it is clear that both switches are capable of delivering a satisfying typing experience with their own distinct characteristics. Depending on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style, either switch could provide a fantastic choice for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking a tailored typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a light actuation force and a subtle, stepped tactility with a characteristic clacky sound, then the Gateron Beer tactile switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky switch with a more pronounced click and feedback, the Outemu Blue clicky switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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