Gateron Beer vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that suits your typing preferences, the Gateron Beer and Durock T1 tactile switches are two notable options to consider. The Gateron Beer stands out with its unique translucent green design reminiscent of a Tsingtao beer bottle, offering a refreshing change from traditional switches. With a stepped tactility and characteristic clacky sound signature, it provides a light and easy-to-press typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock T1 is praised for its comfortable typing feel with a medium bump and gentle rain-like sound. Categorized as polished, neutral, and accented, the T1 offers a more subtle tactile feedback compared to the Beer. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the Durock T1 switches, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing not only leads to a more clear and resonant sound but also is ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Beer's polycarbonate bottom housing continues to enhance the sharp and clear sound profile of the switch, while the T1's nylon bottom housing brings about a deeper and fuller sound profile with a duller and rounder sound.
Despite both the Beer and the T1 utilizing polycarbonate for their top housing, the choice of materials for their bottom housing sets them apart. The Beer's polycarbonate bottom housing continues to complement its sharp and crisp sound profile, maintaining consistency throughout the switch. Conversely, the T1's nylon bottom housing enhances the switch's sound profile by absorbing more sound and providing a deeper and fuller tone. This distinction in bottom housing materials showcases the different sound profiles that each switch can produce, catering to varying preferences for typing sound and feel.
In terms of functionality, the housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the Durock T1 demonstrate how the qualities of each material impact the overall typing experience. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a unique combination of sound profiles when pressing down and letting go of a key. While the polycarbonate top housing plays a significant role in the sound upon key release, the bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences based on their housing materials, catering to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, it is clear that they offer different experiences in terms of force required to type. The Beer tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the T1's unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Beer requires 50 grams, which is still lighter than the T1's 67 grams. This means that the T1 provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force. Individuals who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming may opt for the Beer switch, while those who enjoy a stronger push feel may lean towards the T1. Ultimately, the weight of the switch plays a crucial role in determining the typing experience based on individual preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Durock T1 tactile switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the T1 offers a slightly longer keypress compared to the Beer switch. The shorter travel distance of the Beer switch may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the T1. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 is known for its characteristic clacky sound, providing a sharp and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, reminiscent of rain falling on a window. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences, with the Beer switch delivering a crisper and brighter sound compared to the T1's more mellow and bass-heavy tone.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is highlighted for its easy-to-press design, offering minimal resistance during key presses and making typing effortless and comfortable. The stepped tactility of the Beer switch provides a subtle and engaging typing experience. In contrast, the Durock T1 tactile switch also features a stepped tactile feel, along with an accented and polished keystroke, providing a medium level of tactility without being overwhelming. Both switches offer a unique tactile typing experience, with the Beer switch emphasizing a lighter touch and the T1 providing a more pronounced tactile bump.
Overall, while the Gateron Beer tactile switch offers a distinct clacky sound and an easy-to-press feel with stepped tactility, the Durock T1 tactile switch provides a low-pitched, neutral sound with an accented and polished keystroke. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer their own unique qualities that cater to different typing styles. Ultimately, choosing between the Gateron Beer and Durock T1 tactile switches will depend on whether you prefer a sharper, crisper typing experience or a more mellow and medium-tactile feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Beer tactile switch or the Durock T1 tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter switch with a distinctive clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, the Gateron Beer may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a medium bump, low-pitched sound, and a polished finish for a smooth typing experience, the Durock T1 could be the ideal choice. Consider your typing habits, sound preferences, and desired typing feel when making your decision between these two tactile switches.
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