Gateron Beer vs. HMX SU

Overview

When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Beer and HMX SU stand out for their distinct characteristics and user experiences. The Gateron Beer, a tactile switch, is celebrated for its unique stepped tactility, offering a refreshingly lightweight feel that evokes the sparkling allure of a Tsingtao beer bottle. Its clacky sound signature adds a playful auditory element, making it an appealing choice for those who enjoy the tactile feedback and sound of their keystrokes. In contrast, the HMX SU, a linear switch, provides a smooth and uninterrupted key press, well-suited for users who prefer a quieter typing experience. With its full PA12 housing and T5 stem, it offers a relatively deep sound profile that still provides subtle feedback, appealing to gamers and typists alike who seek precision and comfort. Both switches serve unique purposes, making them worthy considerations for different users and preferences; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Beer Tactile

HMX SU Linear

$6.00

$4.59 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the Gateron Beer and the HMX SU switches, a noticeable distinction exists in the choice of housing materials. The Gateron Beer utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, a material known for its stiffness and translucency. This design choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that many typists find appealing, especially when using RGB lighting, which shines beautifully through the clear polycarbonate. In contrast, the HMX SU features a nylon top housing, which tends to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, leading to a rounder auditory experience. Consequently, while both switches aim to enhance typists' experiences, the differences in housing materials create distinct acoustical profiles.

The bottom housings of both switches mirror their tops, further emphasizing their respective sound characteristics. The Gateron Beer's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the clear and resonant tone associated with stiffer plastics, aligning perfectly with the high-pitched sound signature. Conversely, the nylon bottom housing of the HMX SU complements its top housing's sound characteristics, resulting in an overall deeper auditory experience. Ultimately, if one presses down on a key in either switch, the bottom housing will be more influential in defining the bottom-out sound and feel. Thus, each switch not only showcases its individual materials through the sound produced but also influences how they are perceived during operation.

In summary, while the Gateron Beer offers a consistent polycarbonate construction in both the top and bottom housings, the HMX SU incorporates nylon in the top housing and nylon in the bottom housing, leading to a unique combination of sound profiles. The Gateron Beer leans towards clarity and resonance, while the HMX SU delivers depth and warmth. Typists will experience these differences not only in the auditory feedback but also in the tactile response. Therefore, users seeking a crisper typing experience may gravitate towards the Gateron Beer, whereas those preferring a fuller sound may opt for the HMX SU. Ultimately, both switches can deliver satisfying performances, albeit through different acoustic journeys tied to their material compositions.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Beer tactile switch to the HMX SU linear switch, we see some notable differences in their actuation forces while their bottom out forces remain the same. The Gateron Beer has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams, making it easier to press down for longer typing sessions or extended gaming, which can be beneficial for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience. In contrast, the HMX SU switch has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, providing a more substantial feel that some typists may find preferable for its tactile feedback. However, both switches share identical bottom out forces of 50 grams, indicating that once fully pressed down, they require the same amount of force to bottom out. Additionally, with the Beer being the lighter option overall, it may be the better choice for those who prioritize comfort during lengthy use.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the HMX SU linear switch, the Gateron Beer features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the HMX SU has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Beer switch the shorter option, appealing to those who prefer quicker response times typical for gaming, whereas the SU switch, with its longer travel distance, may offer a more satisfying tactile feedback for users who enjoy a deeper key press. Consequently, if a user seeks responsiveness, the Gateron Beer is the favored choice; however, those who appreciate a more pronounced depth might lean towards the HMX SU.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is notable for its clacky auditory profile, producing sharp and snappy sounds with each keystroke. This clackiness is characterized by a crisp and bright resonance, which can evoke a sense of excitement during typing sessions. On the other hand, the HMX SU linear switch has an unspecified sound profile; however, it is known to have a relatively deep sound, likely softer than the Beer switch, given its linear nature. While the Beer switch creates a lively environment with its clackiness, the SU may offer a quieter experience which could be favored in more subdued settings. It’s essential to consider that the overall sound experience is also influenced by the keyboard's materials and construction, as well as the choice of keycaps.

In terms of feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is designed to be easy to press, requiring minimal force for activation, which enhances comfort during extended typing sessions. Its stepped tactility provides a nuanced experience where the keypress feels slightly more pronounced at different stages, creating a tactile feedback that some users find beneficial for typing accuracy. Conversely, the HMX SU linear switch lacks a specified feel, making it difficult to make direct comparisons. However, as a linear switch, it is generally expected to produce a smooth and consistent keypress without tactile bumps. This allows for fast and fluid typing, though it may not provide the tactile feedback that some users prefer when typing.

In conclusion, the Gateron Beer tactile switch showcases a vibrant clacky sound and a user-friendly feel with its easy-to-press and stepped characteristics, making it a dynamic choice for those who enjoy tactile feedback and auditory stimulation while typing. The HMX SU linear switch remains somewhat unknown in terms of its specific tactile feel and sound quality but is presumed to offer a smoother, quieter experience typical of linear switches. While each switch presents unique attributes, both can provide enjoyable typing experiences based on the user's preferences. Ultimately, trying both would be the best way to determine which fits one's personal typing style and sound preferences.

Conclusion

To sum up, choosing between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the HMX SU linear switch ultimately depends on your preferences regarding typing feel and sound profile. If you enjoy a tactile experience with a bit of character, the Beer switch is an excellent option, especially if you're looking for a lightweight feel. Its easy-to-press nature and stepped tactility provide a gentle yet noticeable feedback during typing, making it ideal for long sessions without significant finger fatigue. The clacky sound signature adds an engaging auditory element that many typists find satisfying. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and uninterrupted typing experience, the HMX SU linear switch would be more suitable. Its deeper sound profile and seamless keystrokes cater to those who value quiet operation and minimal resistance, perfect for both intense gaming sessions and professional typing environments. Ultimately, assess your needs: opt for the Beer for tactile feedback and a lively sound, or choose the SU for a smooth, linear feel with subtle auditory presence.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Beer Tactile

$6.00

$4.59 per 10

Learn more

HMX SU Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more