Gateron Beer vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Beer and the KTT Purple Star offer unique features for different typing preferences. The Gateron Beer switch is a tactile option that evokes the sparkling allure of a Tsingtao beer bottle with its translucent green design. Known for its refreshing lightweight feel and stepped tactility, the Beer switch provides a subtler typing experience compared to traditional tactile switches, accompanied by a clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star switch is a linear option constructed entirely of POM, offering a buttery smooth typing experience with a neutral sound profile. With a very light 45g bottom-out, the Purple Star switch is ideal for light typists seeking ease and comfort in their typing. Each switch has its own strengths and qualities that cater to different preferences, but it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In terms of housing materials, the Gateron Beer and the KTT Purple Star both offer unique sound profiles, but with contrasting characteristics. The Beer utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile with clear and resonant tones. In comparison, the Purple Star features POM for both its top and bottom housings, creating a deeper and relatively more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles showcases the different sonic experiences that these housing materials can provide.
Despite their differences, both the Gateron Beer and the KTT Purple Star benefit from the use of translucent housing materials. The polycarbonate top housing of the Beer allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic element to the switch. Similarly, the POM top housing of the Purple Star offers a unique look with its translucency. While their sound profiles may vary, the similar use of translucent materials highlights the versatility and visual appeal of these housing options.
When considering the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience, it's important to note how the top and bottom housings contribute to different aspects of sound and feel. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of a keypress, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. By understanding this split impact, keyboard enthusiasts can appreciate how the choice of housing material can influence the overall typing experience on switches like the Gateron Beer and the KTT Purple Star.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, both switches have a bottom out force of 50 grams, making them equally heavy in that regard. However, the Beer has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams, while the Purple Star has a slightly heavier actuation force of 43 grams. This means that the Beer will require less force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Purple Star. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Beer would be the ideal choice, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Purple Star for its slightly heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the KTT Purple Star linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Purple Star has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Beer. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances which are popular among gamers for their faster response times. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance of the Beer more abrupt, while others may appreciate the slightly deeper feel of the Purple Star. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing experience.
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 KTT Purple Star comes in at $4.88 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 offers a clacky sound signature, which is sharp, snappy, and percussive when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch provides a low-pitched sound that is more bass-heavy and mellow in tone. While the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, users can expect a distinct auditory experience with each switch.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is known for being easy-to-press with a stepped tactility that provides a subtle and lightweight typing experience. This switch requires minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and reducing finger fatigue during extended use. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch offers a mild typing experience with an easy-to-press design that is approachable to most users. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience by providing a responsive and comfortable feel, albeit with slightly different characteristics.
Overall, while the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch offer different sound and feel qualities, users can expect a similar level of comfort and typing ease with both switches. The Beer switch emphasizes a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel with stepped tactility, while the Purple Star switch focuses on a low-pitched sound and mild typing experience with its all-POM construction. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a lighter actuation force and a subtle tactile bump with a clacky sound, the Gateron Beer switch may be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth typing experience with a low-pitched sound and a light bottom-out force, the KTT Purple Star switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and needs.
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