Gateron Beer vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. The Beer switch stands out for its unique translucent green design reminiscent of a Tsingtao beer bottle, its lightweight feel, and stepped tactility that offers a subtler tactile experience. On the other hand, the Strawberry switch features an attractive pink and clear housing, smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. While the Beer switch is characterized as 'clacky', 'easy-to-press', and 'stepped', the Strawberry switch is described as 'low-pitched', 'frictionless', 'silky', 'buttery', and 'polished'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, so it's important to consider your preferences in terms of sound, feel, and design. 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
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the KTT Strawberry switches are very similar, as both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top and bottom housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing element to the overall design of the switch.
Despite both switches using polycarbonate for their housing materials, the Gateron Beer and KTT Strawberry switches may still offer slightly different sound profiles and tactile feedback due to variations in design and manufacturing processes. This difference may be more pronounced when comparing the bottom housing of each switch, as the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed. On the other hand, the top housing will have a more significant impact on the sound produced when a key is released, showcasing the importance of both components in determining the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Beer and KTT Strawberry switches share similar housing materials in their construction, slight variations in design and manufacturing processes may result in nuanced differences in sound profiles and tactile feedback. Both switches benefit from the use of polycarbonate for their top and bottom housings, which contribute to a sharp and crisp sound profile ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant typing experience. Overall, whether using the Gateron Beer or KTT Strawberry, the inclusion of polycarbonate in the housing materials ensures a reliable and visually appealing switch suitable for a variety of applications.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, we can see that the Beer is lighter in both aspects. The Beer has an actuation force of 38 grams, while the Strawberry has a slightly heavier actuation force of 43 grams. Additionally, the Beer has a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is lighter compared to the Strawberry's bottom out force of 62 grams. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Beer make it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch and want to type for extended periods without fatigue. On the other hand, the Strawberry with its slightly heavier forces may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience and prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Beer offering a lighter touch and the Strawberry providing a bit more resistance for those who prefer it.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the KTT Strawberry linear switch. The Beer switch would provide a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch offers a deeper key press with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance and the desired 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 Strawberry comes in at $4.91 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is known for its crisp and clacky sound signature, giving off a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is described as having a low-pitched sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Depending on personal preference, the Beer switch will provide a more vibrant and lively typing experience, while the Strawberry switch will offer a more subdued and relaxed auditory feedback.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is lauded for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The stepped tactility of the Beer switch also provides a unique typing experience with a mild bump sensation. On the contrary, the KTT Strawberry linear switch offers a frictionless and silky typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. With a buttery and polished feel, the Strawberry switch ensures a smooth and refined keystroke, enhancing the overall typing comfort.
Overall, while the Gateron Beer tactile switch excels in providing a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel with stepped tactility, the KTT Strawberry linear switch stands out for its low-pitched sound profile and frictionless, silky typing experience with a buttery and polished feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance the overall enjoyment of typing on a mechanical keyboard. It's essential to try out both switches to determine which one aligns best with your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, consider the characteristics that align with your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a light actuation force and a subtle tactility that results in a clacky sound with each keystroke, the Gateron Beer tactile switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium actuation force and a smooth, frictionless typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Strawberry linear switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, selecting the switch that best matches your typing preferences will enhance your overall typing experience.
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