Gateron Beer vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Beer and the Kailh Plum mechanical keyboard switches, one can see distinct differences in their design and functionality. The Beer switch evokes the sparkling allure of a Tsingtao beer bottle with its mesmerizing translucent green color. It offers a light and easy-to-press feel with a stepped tactility that provides a unique typing experience. Additionally, it produces a characteristic clacky sound signature that adds to the overall tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Plum switch feels hefty but lacks a significant tactile bump, offering a more neutral and mild typing experience. Despite their differences, both switches offer a stepped tactility that sets them apart from other tactile switches on the market. When considering which switch to choose, it ultimately depends on your preference for tactility and sound profile. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
Both the Gateron Beer and Kailh Plum switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for better resonance and clarity in sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it a popular choice for switches designed to showcase RGB lighting. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Gateron Beer continues with polycarbonate while the Kailh Plum switches to nylon. This switch in materials results in a difference in sound profile, with polycarbonate offering a clearer and more resonant sound, while nylon tends to produce a deeper and fuller sound.
In terms of feel and sound, the different housing materials of the Gateron Beer and Kailh Plum switches play a significant role. While both switches share the sharp, higher-pitched sound characteristics brought by the polycarbonate top housing, the bottom housing materials contribute to different tactile experiences. The polycarbonate bottom housing in the Beer switch enhances the overall sound profile, especially during the bottom-out phase. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing in the Plum switch absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. This difference in bottom housings affects the overall typing experience for users of each switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Beer and Kailh Plum switches may come down to personal preference in sound and feel. The polycarbonate top housing in both switches provides a consistent sharp and crisp sound profile, perfect for those who prioritize clarity and resonance in their typing experience. However, the difference in bottom housing materials offers a variation in sound and feel that may cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer the stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing of the Beer switch for a more impactful bottom-out sound or the softer nylon bottom housing of the Plum switch for a deeper and fuller sound, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, it is evident that the Beer switch is lighter in terms of actuation and bottom out force. The Beer switch has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Plum switch has a higher bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. The actuation force of the Plum switch is unknown, but considering its higher bottom out force, it can be inferred that it is heavier than the Beer switch. Overall, those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may opt for the Gateron Beer switch, while those who favor a more robust typing experience may prefer the Kailh Plum switch.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Kailh Plum tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for quicker response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may result in a slightly different feel when typing or gaming. Overall, if you prefer a switch with a slightly shorter travel distance, the Beer switch may be the better option for you. However, if you prefer a switch with a bit more depth to the key press, the Plum switch could be the preferred choice. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively similar experience due to their comparable travel distances.
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 Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is known for its characteristic clacky sound signature, delivering a sharp and percussive noise when pressed. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile, which is moderate and enjoyable without being too loud or too soft. Ultimately, the sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate and offering a light actuation that reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, its stepped tactility provides a subtle and smooth typing experience. Conversely, the Kailh Plum tactile switch offers a mild typing experience with a gentle tactile bump that is approachable to most users. Like the Beer, the Plum switch also features a stepped feel, providing a unique sensation with some pre-travel and post-travel sensation.
In conclusion, the Gateron Beer tactile switch stands out for its clacky sound and easy-to-press nature with a stepped tactility, while the Kailh Plum tactile switch offers a more neutral sound and a mild typing experience with its own stepped feel. Both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences, but overall, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch choice. Whether opting for the Gateron Beer or Kailh Plum, enthusiasts can anticipate similar results in terms of versatility, durability, and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, consider your preferences for actuation force and tactile feel. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a more subtle tactile experience with a distinct clacky sound, the Gateron Beer switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force and a unique tactile feel that is not overly pronounced, along with a neutral sound profile, the Kailh Plum switch could be the better option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing preferences and the typing experience you desire. Consider these factors carefully to choose the switch that best suits your needs and enhances your overall typing experience.
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