Gateron Beer vs. Outemu Dustproof Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the Outemu Dustproof Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Beer and the Outemu Dustproof Red offer unique experiences for users. The Gateron Beer, with its mesmerizing translucent green color reminiscent of a Tsingtao beer bottle, is a tactile switch known for its lightweight and stepped tactility, providing a subtle feel with a characteristic clacky sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Red is a linear switch that is not known for any particular feature but is categorized simply as linear. If you are looking for a switch that is clacky, easy-to-press, and stepped, the Gateron Beer may be the one for you. 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
60g
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the Outemu Dustproof Red, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches designed to use RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing element to the overall appearance of the switch. In contrast, the Dustproof Red utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound that may appeal to those looking for a quieter typing experience.
The choice of housing materials in the Gateron Beer and the Outemu Dustproof Red highlights the impact of material composition on the sound and feel of mechanical switches. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing, the Beer features a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Dustproof Red utilizes a nylon bottom housing. This split in housing materials affects the overall sound profile of the switches, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing impacting the sound when releasing a key. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate in the Beer creates a clear and resonant sound, while the softer nylon in the Dustproof Red absorbs more sound, resulting in a different typing experience.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the Outemu Dustproof Red contribute to distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. The polycarbonate top housing in both switches produces a sharper sound profile, with the Beer offering a crisper sound compared to the fuller sound of the Dustproof Red's nylon bottom housing. The use of different materials in the top and bottom housings demonstrates how each material's unique properties can influence the overall sound and feel of a mechanical switch. Whether seeking a clearer, higher-pitched sound or a deeper, fuller sound, the choice between polycarbonate and nylon housing materials can cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, it is clear that the Beer is lighter in both aspects. The Beer has an actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Dustproof Red's 45 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. Additionally, the Beer has a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Dustproof Red has a bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating that the Beer is lighter overall. This lighter weight may be preferred by those who type for long periods or engage in extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, which some users may prefer for a more tactile feel. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these two switches cater to different preferences in terms of typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, we can see that the Beer has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Dustproof Red has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Dustproof Red being closer to the standard 4.0mm. Gamers may prefer the Beer for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more substantial keypress may opt for the Dustproof Red with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress 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 Dustproof Red 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 stands out for its characteristic clacky sound, which provides a sharp and snappy auditory feedback when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch's sound profile is unknown. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch is not only determined by the switch itself but is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
Moving on to the 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 light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, the Beer switch presents a stepped tactility, providing a subtle two-stage feel that differs from the more pronounced bump of other tactile switches. On the other hand, the tactile properties of the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch are unknown.
Overall, the Gateron Beer tactile switch offers a unique typing experience with its lightweight and easy-to-press design, complemented by a clacky sound signature and stepped tactility. While the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch may provide a different typing experience, it is important to consider personal preferences regarding sound and feel when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance your typing experience, and selecting the right one will depend on your individual preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, you should consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a more unique design with a stepped tactility and clacky sound, the Gateron Beer tactile switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force and are looking for a linear switch with no specific sound or feel descriptions provided, the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what factors are most important to you in terms of typing experience and overall keyboard feel. Choose wisely and enjoy typing on your new mechanical keyboard!
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