Gateron Beer vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron beer and Outemu dustproof blue offer distinct differences to cater to different preferences. The Gateron beer switch stands out with its unique translucent green appearance reminiscent of a Tsingtao beer bottle. Known for its lightweight and stepped tactility, it provides a subtle tactile feedback with a distinctive clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the Outemu dustproof blue switch does not have a standout feature, but it is a clicky switch that is categorized as such. If you prefer a switch that is easy to press and offers a clacky typing experience, 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
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
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 Dustproof Blue switches are quite similar as they both feature a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, the Beer switch also utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing, enhancing the overall sound profile with a consistent clarity and resonance. In contrast, the Dustproof Blue switch opts for a nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound.
Despite the similarities in their top housing materials, the Gateron Beer and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches showcase distinct differences in their bottom housing materials. While both switches offer a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and clear sound profile, the Beer switch maintains this consistency with a polycarbonate bottom housing to ensure a cohesive and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue switch incorporates a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile, highlighting the softer nature of nylon that creates a duller and rounder sound. These differences in bottom housing materials can significantly impact the overall typing feel and sound of each switch.
When comparing the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience, it becomes clear that the qualities of the bottom housing have a more significant influence on the feel and sound of a switch during key presses. The material of the bottom housing determines the bottom-out sound and feel, affecting the overall typing experience with its unique characteristics. Conversely, the top housing material plays a more prominent role in the sound produced when letting go of a key, showcasing the importance of both housing materials in shaping the overall sound profile of a switch. Whether utilizing polycarbonate or nylon, each housing material brings its own set of qualities that contribute to the tactile and auditory experience of mechanical switches.
Weight
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch. The Beer requires only 38 grams of force to actuate a key, while the Dustproof Blue needs 50 grams. In terms of bottoming out, the Beer needs 50 grams, while the Dustproof Blue requires 65 grams. This means that the Beer switch is lighter overall than the Dustproof Blue. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Beer may be preferred by those looking for a more effortless typing experience, while the heavier forces of the Dustproof Blue may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm, making it the shorter option compared to the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch with a travel distance of 4mm. The Beer offers a more responsive feel, which is preferred by gamers looking for quick response times, while the Dustproof Blue provides a more substantial key press with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their travel distance, so choosing between the two depends on personal preference for key feel and response time. Ultimately, both switches will provide a satisfying typing experience, with the Beer being slightly shorter and the Dustproof Blue being slightly longer in travel distance.
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 Dustproof 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
Overall, the Gateron Beer tactile switch offers a unique typing experience with its distinctive clacky sound signature and easy-to-press, stepped tactility. The sound is sharp and snappy, adding an element of excitement to typing sessions. The light actuation force and stepped tactility provide a comfortable and responsive typing feel, reducing finger fatigue during extended use. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch's subjective qualities are unknown, making it difficult to compare directly. However, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a specific sound and feel, the Gateron Beer switch would be a great choice for a more lively and engaging typing experience. Remember that personal preferences play a significant role in switch selection, so it is always recommended to try out different switches to find the one that best suits your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, consider your preference for key feel and sound. If you are looking for an easy-to-press switch with a light actuation force and a stepped tactile feel, the Gateron Beer may be the perfect choice for you. Its clacky sound signature adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a clicky switch without specific key feel and sound preferences, the Outemu Dustproof Blue could be a reliable option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on personal preference and the typing experience you desire.
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