Gateron Beer vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Beer and Outemu Crystal Brown both offer a tactile typing experience, but each brings its own unique qualities to the table. The Gateron Beer is characterized by its mesmerizing translucent green color that evokes the allure of a Tsingtao beer bottle. It is a tactile switch that is refreshingly lightweight, boasting a stepped tactility that provides a subtle feel compared to the continuous curve of round tactility. Additionally, the Beer switches emit a characteristic clacky sound that further enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown is a tactile switch that has a quieter operation compared to the Beer. While it may lack the visual appeal of the Beer, it offers a more discreet typing experience. If you prefer a switch that is clacky and easy-to-press, the Gateron Beer may be the way to go. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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 Crystal Brown switches both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. This material is ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, as its translucency enhances the overall aesthetic. However, they differ when it comes to the bottom housing material. The Beer switch utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Crystal Brown switch uses a nylon bottom housing. The nylon material of the Crystal Brown switch absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Beer switch.
In terms of sound and feel, the housing materials play a significant role in the overall typing experience of a switch. The polycarbonate top housing of both the Gateron Beer and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches will have a notable impact on the sound when a key is released, creating a clear and resonant sound profile. However, the bottom housing material will influence the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. The stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing of the Beer switch will provide a sharper and crisper bottom-out sound, while the softer nylon bottom housing of the Crystal Brown switch will result in a duller and rounder sound.
Overall, while both the Gateron Beer and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, their differences in bottom housing materials lead to distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. The Beer switch offers a crisper and sharper sound profile due to its polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Crystal Brown switch provides a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its nylon bottom housing. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these switches based on their desired typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch. The Beer requires 38 grams of force to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter option. In contrast, the Crystal Brown needs 45 grams to actuate and 55 grams to bottom out, making it slightly heavier. The lighter weight of the Beer switch may appeal to those who prefer a more effortless typing experience for extended periods, while the Crystal Brown's slightly heavier weight may be favored by those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches play a significant role in determining the typing experience and preference of the user.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Crystal Brown has a longer travel distance compared to the Beer. A 3.4mm travel distance is shorter than the traditional 4.0mm distance, which may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times. On the other hand, the 4mm travel distance of the Crystal Brown switch provides a more substantial feel when pressing down on the key, which may be preferred by those who like a deeper keystroke. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Crystal Brown 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
The Gateron Beer tactile switch is well-known for its distinct clacky sound signature, evoking a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. In contrast, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch's sound qualities are unknown. When it comes to feel, the Beer switch offers an easy-to-press experience with minimal force required for activation, making typing effortless and comfortable. It also features a stepped tactility, providing a subtler feel compared to other switches. On the other hand, the feel of the Crystal Brown switch is unspecified. Overall, while the Gateron Beer switch is praised for its unique sound and easy-to-press feel, the qualities of the Outemu Crystal Brown switch remain uncertain. With these comparisons in mind, it's important to consider personal preferences and typing needs when choosing between these two switches to ensure a satisfying keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, a unique translucent green design reminiscent of a Tsingtao beer bottle, a stepped tactility for a subtler typing experience, and a clacky sound signature, then the Gateron Beer switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 55 grams and prioritize other factors such as sound and feel, then the Outemu Crystal Brown switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience, aesthetics, and sound profile.
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