Gateron Beer vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Beer tactile switch to the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, there are some notable differences to consider. The Beer switch is characterized by its unique translucent green color that evokes the sparkling allure of a Tsingtao beer bottle. It offers a light and easy-to-press feel with a stepped tactility that provides a subtle feedback. On the other hand, the Cream Blue switch doesn't have a distinctive design feature but is known for its clicky sound signature. While the Beer switch is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Easy-to-press', 'Stepped', the Cream Blue switch falls into a different category. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your preference for typing feel and sound. 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
65g
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
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 Outemu Cream Blue switches, it is evident that the Beer utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings, creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Cream Blue features nylon for both the top and bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile attributed to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. Despite this difference, both switches offer distinct sound profiles based on their housing materials.
While the Beer's polycarbonate housing contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, the Cream Blue's nylon housing adds a rounder and duller sound quality. The translucency of polycarbonate in the Beer switch allows for RGB lighting to be more prominent, enhancing the aesthetics of the switch. In contrast, the Cream Blue's nylon housing is a classic material that provides a different typing experience with a deeper sound profile. These differences in housing materials highlight the importance of material choice in determining the overall sound and feel of a mechanical switch.
In terms of functionality, the housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the Outemu Cream Blue switches play a significant role in the overall typing experience. While both switches offer distinct sound profiles, the choice between polycarbonate and nylon housings ultimately comes down to personal preference. Whether one prefers a sharper and crisper sound profile from polycarbonate or a deeper and fuller sound profile from nylon, both switches provide unique typing experiences based on their housing materials. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the Beer is lighter in both aspects. The Beer has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions due to its lighter touch. In contrast, the Cream Blue requires a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a heavier push feel. While the Beer offers a lighter typing experience, the Cream Blue offers a more pronounced tactile feedback with its higher force requirements. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the Beer has a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm, while the Cream Blue has a longer travel distance of 4mm. The 0.6mm difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall typing or gaming experience. Generally, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance provides a more substantial keypress feel. So, if you are in need of quicker feedback and response, the Beer switch would be the better option, while if you enjoy a more tactile typing experience, the Cream Blue switch would be more suitable. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on individual preferences, but the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style.
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 Cream 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Beer tactile switch offers a distinctive and clacky sound when pressed, providing a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory experience. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch is unknown. Both switches will produce unique sound profiles based on factors such as the keyboard, keycaps, and personal preference, so the user can expect different results when it comes to sound.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is renowned for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate and providing a gentle resistance during key presses. This light actuation force can make typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, the stepped tactility of the Beer switch offers a unique typing experience with distinct stages of pre-travel and post-travel. In contrast, the feel of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch is currently unknown. Despite this, the user can expect a different tactile experience from the Cream Blue switch based on its clicky nature.
In conclusion, the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Beer switch provides a clacky sound and an easy-to-press, stepped tactile feel, which may be preferred by those looking for a lightweight and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Cream Blue switch's sound and feel characteristics are unknown, so users interested in its clicky nature should try it out to determine if it suits their preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, ensuring that users can find the perfect match for their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a light and easy-to-press switch with a unique tactile experience and a clacky sound signature, the Gateron Beer tactile switch would be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a clicky feel, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch might be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and bottom-out force. Remember to consider how these factors align with your typing style and overall typing experience when choosing between these two switches.
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