Gateron Beer vs. Outemu Purple

Overview

When comparing the Gateron Beer and the Outemu Purple mechanical keyboard switches, we can see some distinct differences. The Gateron Beer, with its visually appealing translucent green design inspired by Tsingtao beer bottles, offers a unique tactile experience. Known for being lightweight and easy to press, it features a stepped tactility that provides a subtle feel compared to other switches. Additionally, it produces a characteristic clacky sound, adding to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple switch does not have a specific design inspiration and is categorized as a tactile switch. While it may not have the same visual appeal as the Gateron Beer, the Outemu Purple switch still provides a tactile typing experience. Each switch has its own unique qualities that may appeal to different users depending on their preferences. However, 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 Purple Tactile

$6.00

$4.59 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the Outemu Purple switches both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows the lighting to shine through the housing. However, the Beer switch also uses polycarbonate for the bottom housing, while the Purple switch uses nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.

Although both the Beer and Purple switches have polycarbonate top housings, the difference in their bottom housing materials affects the overall typing experience. The Beer switch, with polycarbonate bottom housing, will provide a consistent sharp and crisp sound throughout the typing process. In contrast, the Purple switch, with nylon bottom housing, will offer a deeper and more muted sound when bottoming out the keys. This variation in sound profiles can cater to different preferences, depending on whether the user prefers a sharper or fuller sound when typing.

Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Beer and Outemu Purple switches will come down to personal preference in sound and typing experience. Both switches offer the benefits of polycarbonate top housing, such as a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the difference in bottom housing material provides a unique typing feel. Whether you prefer the clear and resonant sound of polycarbonate throughout the typing process or the deeper and fuller sound of nylon when bottoming out keys, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Beer tactile switch to the Outemu Purple tactile switch, it is evident that the Beer is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force. The Beer has an actuation force of 38 grams, considerably lighter than the Purple's 50 grams. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Beer is 50 grams, while the Purple's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Beer requires less force to trigger a keystroke and to press all the way down compared to the Purple. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Beer, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue, while individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Purple despite the heavier force requirements. In conclusion, the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Beer and the Outemu Purple switches highlight the importance of weight considerations in selecting the most suitable switch for one's typing preference.

Travel distance

The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Purple tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Outemu Purple has a longer travel distance compared to the Gateron Beer. The Beer offers a shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Purple switch provides a deeper key press, which some users may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for travel distance and key press depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

Overall, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is characterized by a distinctive clacky sound signature and a light, easy-to-press feel with a stepped tactility. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple tactile switch lacks specific descriptions in both sound and feel. Due to the lack of information on the Purple switch, it is difficult to make a direct comparison based on the provided details. However, if we consider the known qualities of the Beer switch, it is likely that the Purple switch may offer a different experience in sound and feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on personal preference for typing feel and sound profile. Both switches may offer similar results depending on the user's preferences, keyboard setup, and keycap choices.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a subtle, stepped tactility with a clacky sound signature, the Gateron Beer switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with undefined bottom out force and want to experience a different typing sensation, the Outemu Purple switch could be worth exploring. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences and typing style to enhance your overall mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Beer Tactile

$6.00

$4.59 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Purple Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more