Gateron Beer vs. HMX Sunset Gleam
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Beer and the HMX Sunset Gleam each offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Gateron Beer, a tactile switch, is renowned for its eye-catching translucent green design reminiscent of a refreshing Tsingtao beer bottle. Its lightweight feel and stepped tactility provide an engaging typing experience that’s both responsive and pleasing, complemented by a distinctive clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam stands out as a linear switch, crafted with a thoughtful blend of materials that ensure a smooth and subtle response at top-out, while delivering an enjoyable sound with the excellent factory lubrication HMX is celebrated for. If you're looking for a tactile switch that offers a bit of personality and a satisfying feedback, the Gateron Beer might be your go-to. Conversely, if you prefer the silky-smooth key presses of a linear switch, the HMX Sunset Gleam could hold the appeal you're after. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the Gateron Beer and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches play a significant role in defining their acoustic properties and overall performance. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housings, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This commonality ensures that the top part of each switch will deliver a clear and resonant sound, enhancing the experience for users who prioritize auditory feedback during typing or gaming sessions. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it an ideal choice for those looking to incorporate RGB lighting, as both switches can effectively showcase vivid lighting effects through their clear top housings.
However, the two switches diverge when it comes to their bottom housing materials. The Gateron Beer utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which maintains that same crisp sound characteristic and adds a bit of consistency to the overall tone of the switch. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam incorporates a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The inherent softness of nylon absorbs sound more than polycarbonate, leading to a rounder and duller auditory experience. This difference in bottom materials means that the two switches will feel quite distinct upon actuation, not just in terms of sound but also in tactile feedback when hitting the bottom of a key press.
When it comes to the impact of these materials on overall performance, the Gateron Beer delivers a more uniform sound profile thanks to its use of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housings, which could be particularly appealing for those who enjoy a consistent auditory experience. Conversely, the HMX Sunset Gleam offers a unique combination of a crisp top sound from its polycarbonate upper and a muted, deeper sound from its nylon lower half, resulting in a more varied auditory response. Ultimately, users choosing between the two will weigh the benefits of uniformity against the nuanced audio texture provided by the contrasting materials.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, we see a slight difference in actuation forces, with the Beer requiring a lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Sunset Gleam's 42 grams. This means that the Beer switch may be more comfortable for prolonged typing sessions, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a lighter feel in their keyboard. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Beer again is slightly heavier at 50 grams, while the Sunset Gleam bottoms out at 48 grams, suggesting that the Beer switch offers a more substantial feel when pressed all the way down. Overall, for users seeking a lighter touch and comfort during extended use, the Gateron Beer may be preferable, while the Sunset Gleam might appeal to those who enjoy a bit more resistance in their typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, there is a slight difference between the two. The Gateron Beer has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the HMX Sunset Gleam features a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Beer switch the shorter option, offering a slightly more responsive feel that may appeal to gamers or those seeking quicker actuation. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam’s longer travel distance provides a more substantial depth, which could be preferred by users who enjoy a more pronounced tactile experience when typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will hinge on personal preference: if rapidity is key, the Gateron Beer may be the better fit; however, for those who favor a more significant sensation, the HMX Sunset Gleam is likely to be more satisfying.
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 HMX Sunset Gleam has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sunset Gleam for $2.99.
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 stands out with its distinctly clacky sound signature, characterized by a sharp and snappy tone that produces a crisp and bright auditory experience during typing. This sound is particularly enjoyable for users who appreciate a percussive quality in their keyboard feedback. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam switch does not have specific sound descriptors provided, which leaves its acoustic characteristics less defined. However, the sound profile of any switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycap materials used, meaning users could achieve a variety of sound results regardless of these individual switch traits.
In terms of feel, the Beer switch is known for its lightweight nature, providing an easy-to-press experience that creates a gentle resistance during key presses. This attribute not only makes typing comfortable and effortless but also helps to minimize fatigue during prolonged use. The stepped tactility of the Beer switch offers a mild tactile response, allowing users to experience pre-travel and or post-travel feedback, which can enhance the typing experience and improve accuracy. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam's feel is not explicitly described, leaving aspects like its resistance, responsiveness, and tactile feedback uncharted. However, many linear switches tend to provide a smooth keystroke with a consistent feel from beginning to end, so users may find that aspect appealing as well.
In conclusion, the Gateron Beer tactile switch presents a distinct clacky sound and a thoughtfully designed tactile experience that emphasizes lightness and a mild, stepped feedback. Its auditory and tactile qualities make it especially engaging for users who enjoy pronounced feedback in their typing. Although the HMX Sunset Gleam lacks defined sound and feel descriptions, its factory lube and potential smoothness could offer a different tactile experience altogether. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback, with both switches offering unique characteristics worth exploring.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch ultimately hinges on your individual preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a tactile response with a noticeable yet gentle bump, along with a lively clacky sound that adds an engaging auditory element to your typing experience, then the Beer switch would likely suit you well. Its lightweight actuation force and stepped tactility provide comfort during extended use, making it a great option for those who type frequently and prefer a more dynamic feel. On the other hand, if you appreciate a smoother and quieter keystroke that allows for rapid key presses without distraction, the Sunset Gleam switch may be your best bet. With its subtle top-out and satisfying clack, combined with excellent factory lube, it offers a refined linear experience that can enhance both typing and gaming performance. Ultimately, consider what feels and sounds right for you, as each switch has its unique charm that can elevate your keyboard experience.
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