Gateron Beer vs. Outemu Peach

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics and advantages. Two popular switches to consider are the Gateron Beer, a tactile switch, and the Outemu Peach, a linear switch. The Gateron Beer stands out for its mesmerizing translucent green color, evoking the allure of a Tsingtao beer bottle. Known for its refreshingly lightweight design and stepped tactility, this switch offers a subtler tactile feel compared to others, accompanied by a characteristic clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach is praised for its feather-light typing experience and unique silence. Perfect for linear switch enthusiasts looking for a smooth and quiet typing experience, the Peach is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Muted', 'Subtle', and 'Polished'. Each switch has its own strengths and appeals to different preferences, but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Beer Tactile

Outemu Peach Linear

$6.00

$4.59 per 10

$3.40 per 10

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Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Beer and Outemu Peach switches, it is evident that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Beer features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. On the other hand, the Peach utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This contrast in housing materials leads to distinct typing experiences for users of each switch.

One similarity between the Gateron Beer and Outemu Peach switches is their use of different materials for the top and bottom housings. While the Beer employs polycarbonate for both top and bottom housings, the Peach utilizes nylon for both components. This means that the qualities of the housing materials are evenly distributed throughout the switch for both models. As a result, the typing experience on these switches will be consistent, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Despite the different materials used, users can expect a similar level of performance and sound profile from both switches.

Overall, the choice between the Gateron Beer and Outemu Peach switches ultimately boils down to personal preference in typing experience. The stiffer polycarbonate housing of the Beer provides a clear and resonant sound profile, while the softer nylon housing of the Peach delivers a deeper and fuller sound. Users looking for a sharper, crisper typing experience may prefer the Beer, while those seeking a more muffled and rounder sound may opt for the Peach. Regardless of the choice, both switches offer unique qualities based on their housing materials that cater to different preferences in sound and feel.

Weight

The Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch both have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces compared to other switches on the market. The Beer has an actuation force of 38 grams, while the Peach has an actuation force of 40 grams. Both switches have a bottom out force of 50 grams, making them equally light in that regard. The Beer switch may feel slightly lighter due to its lower actuation force, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Peach switch's slightly higher actuation force may provide a slightly more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Ultimately, whether one prefers a lighter or heavier switch comes down to personal preference and typing style.

Travel distance

The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Peach linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may prefer the Gateron Beer for its slightly longer travel distance, providing a bit more depth and feedback with each key press. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to those seeking faster response times and a more immediate tactile feel. Overall, both switches provide unique characteristics based on their travel distances, making them suitable options for different preferences and needs.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is known for its characteristic clacky sound, producing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach linear switch is described as having a more neutral and muted sound profile, making it quieter and more suitable for shared spaces. The sound produced by a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, so the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of noise level.

Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Beer tactile switch offers an easy-to-press experience with gentle resistance, requiring minimal force to activate. It also features a stepped tactility, providing a more subtle feel compared to other switches. In contrast, the Outemu Peach linear switch is described as offering a mild and polished typing experience, with a gentle resistance that is not too feather-light but still maintains a comfortable feel. It is suitable for most users due to its safe middle-ground qualities and smooth key travel.

In conclusion, when comparing the Gateron Beer tactile switch to the Outemu Peach linear switch, it is evident that they offer distinct sound and feel experiences. The Beer switch provides a clacky sound with easy-to-press and stepped tactility, catering to those who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Peach switch delivers a neutral and muted sound with a mild and polished typing feel, appealing to users looking for a quieter and smoother typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, both switches can provide satisfying results, albeit in different ways. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference regarding sound profile and typing experience.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a light actuation force and a unique clacky sound, the Gateron Beer switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a feathery light typing experience with a more muted sound profile, the Outemu Peach switch could be a better fit. Consider your typing habits, sound preferences, and desired level of tactile feedback when making your decision. Overall, both switches offer their own distinct characteristics to enhance your typing experience, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Beer Tactile

$6.00

$4.59 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Peach Linear

$3.40 per 10

Learn more