Gateron Beer vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Beer and the TTC Speed Silver mechanical keyboard switches, it is important to note their distinct features and characteristics. The Beer is a tactile switch that evokes the sparkling allure of a Tsingtao beer bottle, with a mesmerizing translucent green design. Its stepped tactility offers a subtler feel compared to traditional round tactility, making it easy to press and clacky in sound. On the other hand, the Speed Silver is a linear switch that is perfect for those who value a fast and precise typing experience. With a light-medium level of resistance and a reduced travel distance, these switches provide a polished sound profile and a neutral typing feel. Ultimately, the Beer is best suited for those who prefer a unique design and a light tactile typing experience, while the Speed Silver is ideal for users who prioritize speed and precision in their typing. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
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
The Gateron Beer and the TTC Speed Silver both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to their relatively stiffer nature. The use of polycarbonate in clear housings is especially beneficial for switches with RGB lighting, as the translucency allows for the colorful lighting to shine through. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver stands out with its nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Gateron Beer. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound experience.
In terms of sound and feel, the differences in housing materials between the Gateron Beer and TTC Speed Silver come into play when comparing the impact of each material on the switch's performance. The stiffer polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches influences the sound when a key is released, creating a clear and resonant profile. On the other hand, the softer nylon in the Speed Silver's bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel, resulting in a deeper and fuller typing experience. While both switches offer distinct sound profiles based on their housing materials, they each provide a unique typing experience depending on whether you prioritize a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, fuller one.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Beer and TTC Speed Silver ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and typing feel. Both switches offer benefits based on their housing materials, with the Beer's polycarbonate creating a sharper sound profile and the Speed Silver's nylon resulting in a deeper sound experience. Whether you prefer the crisper top-out sound of the Beer or the fuller bottom-out sound of the Speed Silver, both switches deliver quality performance based on their housing materials. So, while there are distinct differences between the two, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and typing feel depending on their preference for sharper or deeper tones.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, it is clear that the Beer is the lighter option. The Beer has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Speed Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. This makes the Beer more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Speed Silver offers a slightly heavier push feel, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Both switches offer a responsive typing experience, but the slight differences in actuation and bottom out forces cater to different preferences in terms of typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force and feedback.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of these two switches, it is clear that both offer the same amount of key travel from top to bottom. This means that whether you choose the Gateron Beer or the TTC Speed Silver, you can expect to experience a similar keypress feel in terms of travel distance. Both switches provide a medium key travel distance, which can offer a balance between comfort and responsiveness for typing or gaming purposes. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to other factors such as actuation force, actuation point, or sound level.
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 TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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 unique and distinct clacky sound profile, characterized by a sharp and percussive tone when pressed. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch delivers a neutral sound profile, suitable for various typing preferences and environments. If you prefer a crisp and bright clacky sound, the Beer switch is the way to go, while the Speed Silver switch provides a more versatile and moderate sound experience. Keep in mind that the overall sound produced by both switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch provides an easy-to-press experience with a gentle resistance, making typing effortless and comfortable. The stepped tactility of these switches offers a unique two-stage feel, different from the typical round tactility of other switches. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with a smooth and refined finish that enhances key travel. These switches strike a balance between comfort and approachability, catering to a wide range of users with varying preferences.
Overall, the Gateron Beer tactile switch stands out for its clacky sound signature and easy-to-press, stepped tactile feel, providing a refreshing and effervescent typing experience. In comparison, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch offers a neutral sound profile and a mild, polished feel, emphasizing speed and precision in typing. Depending on your preferred sound and feel preferences, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a distinctive sound or a smooth typing feel in your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, you should choose the Beer if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a clacky sound profile, and an easy-to-press, stepped tactile feel. This switch is best suited for those who enjoy a unique typing experience with a refreshing, lightweight touch. On the other hand, you should opt for the Speed Silver if you value a slightly higher bottom out force, a neutral sound profile, and a mild, polished linear feel. This switch is ideal for individuals who prioritize speed and precision in their typing, while still maintaining a comfortable and consistent typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
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