Gateron Beer vs. Outemu Tom

Overview

When comparing the Gateron Beer and the Outemu Tom mechanical keyboard switches, both are tactile switches but have distinct differences. The Gateron Beer stands out for its unique design inspired by a Tsingtao beer bottle, featuring a mesmerizing translucent green color. Known for its lightweight feel, the beer switches offer a stepped tactility that provides a subtler sensation compared to the continuous curve of round tactility. Additionally, they produce a characteristic clacky sound signature, appealing to those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom lacks any specific standout features but is still a reliable option for those seeking a tactile switch. While the beer switch is categorized as clacky, easy-to-press, stepped, the Tom switch does not have any specific characteristics listed. However, let's delve a little deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Beer Tactile

Outemu Tom Tactile

$6.00

$4.59 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron Beer and the Outemu Tom both utilize polycarbonate material for their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Both switches are ideal for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as the translucency of the polycarbonate allows for a vibrant light display. However, while the top housing material is the same for both switches, they may differ in terms of specific design features or overall performance.

On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Gateron Beer sticks with polycarbonate, while the Outemu Tom opts for nylon. Polycarbonate in the bottom housing ensures a sharper sound profile, similar to its effect in the top housing. However, nylon in the bottom housing of the Outemu Tom results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is softer and more sound-absorbent than polycarbonate. This difference in bottom housing material will impact the overall sound and feel of typing on each switch, offering users a variety of sound profiles to choose from based on their preferences.

In conclusion, the choice of housing material for mechanical keyboard switches plays a significant role in shaping the sound and feel of typing. Both the Gateron Beer and the Outemu Tom utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, creating a sharp and clear sound profile ideal for RGB lighting. However, the differentiation in bottom housing material - with the Beer using polycarbonate and the Tom using nylon - results in a unique sound experience for each switch. Whether you prefer a sharper sound with the Gateron Beer or a deeper sound with the Outemu Tom, the housing materials of these switches offer distinct characteristics to cater to different user preferences.

Weight

In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, it is clear that the Beer is lighter in both aspects. The Gateron Beer has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating a lighter touch compared to the Outemu Tom, which has an actuation force of 55 grams. The bottom out force for the Tom is unknown. For those who prefer a softer touch, the Beer would be the more suitable option, allowing for longer typing sessions with less strain. The Tom, on the other hand, offers a heavier actuation force for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for typing feel and force required.

Travel distance

The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Tom tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Despite this slight difference, both switches fall within the shorter end of the spectrum when it comes to travel distance. Gamers, who prioritize faster response times, may prefer these shorter travel distances as opposed to the more traditional 4.0mm option. The choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference - those who enjoy a more abrupt feel may opt for the shorter travel distance of the Tom, while others who prefer a bit more depth may lean towards the slightly longer travel distance of the Beer. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of travel distance, so users can expect comparable results regardless of their choice.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Beer tactile switch offers a clacky typing experience, characterized by a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, there is no specific information available on the sound of the Outemu Tom tactile switch. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps being used.

Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is known for being easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate and providing a gentle resistance during key presses. This results in a comfortable and effortless typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, the stepped tactility of the Beer switch offers a more subtle and nuanced typing feel compared to other tactile switches. On the other hand, there is no specific information available on the feel of the Outemu Tom tactile switch.

In conclusion, the Gateron Beer tactile switch stands out for its light actuation force, easy-to-press nature, and stepped tactility that offers a unique typing experience. It produces a clacky sound signature that adds to the overall typing feel. While the specific qualities of the Outemu Tom tactile switch are unknown, based on the information provided, it can be inferred that you may get similar results in terms of sound and feel with the Beer switch if you are looking for a tactile switch with a distinctive typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, you should choose the Beer if you prefer a lighter bottom out force (50 grams) and enjoy a keyboard switch that offers a unique stepped tactility and a clacky sound signature. The Beer is especially ideal for those who appreciate a keyboard switch that is easy-to-press and provides a low-impact typing feel. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a bottom out force of None and are indifferent to the sound and feel descriptions provided for the Tom, then this switch may be the right choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences regarding keypress weight, tactility, sound, and overall typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Beer Tactile

$6.00

$4.59 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Tom Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more