Gateron Beer vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Beer, a tactile switch, and the HMX Xinhai, a linear switch. The Beer switch is noted for its translucent green design inspired by a Tsingtao beer bottle, offering a unique visual appeal. Known for its stepped tactility, the Beer switch provides a lighter touch compared to other tactile switches, along with a characteristic clacky sound. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch stands out for its use of a PA12 top housing for softer acoustics and a POM stem for a crisp, high-pitched resonance. With a blend of bouncy and creamy characteristics, the Xinhai offers a different typing experience. While these are general pointers for choosing between the two switches, diving deeper into their specific features and characteristics will help you make the best decision for your preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
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 Gateron Beer and the HMX Xinhai both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that utilize RGB lighting, making them visually appealing. However, the Xinhai differs with its nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Beer's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with this material.
Despite the differences in their bottom housing material, both the Gateron Beer and the HMX Xinhai offer unique sound profiles due to their respective housing materials. The split between the qualities of the top and bottom housings means that the switch's overall sound and feel will be influenced by both materials. The Beer's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to the sharp and crisp sound when bottoming out a key, while the Xinhai's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile in the same scenario. This showcases how the choice of housing material can impact the typing experience and sound of a keyboard switch.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Beer and the HMX Xinhai share polycarbonate top housings, their differing bottom housing materials result in unique sound profiles. The stiffer polycarbonate material in the top housing creates a clear and resonant sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the softer nylon material in the Xinhai's bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller typing experience. Both switches offer distinct characteristics based on their housing materials, showcasing how material choice can influence the overall sound and feel of a keyboard switch.
Weight
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 38 grams compared to the HMX Xinhai linear switch with a force of 37 grams, but both switches fall within the light category. When it comes to bottom out force, the Beer switch requires 50 grams of force, while the Xinhai switch requires 45 grams, making the Xinhai switch slightly lighter in terms of bottom out force. In terms of weight, the Beer switch may be preferred for those who enjoy a slightly heavier actuation force, while the Xinhai switch would be better suited for those who prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force. Ultimately, both switches provide a light typing experience, but the slight differences in actuation and bottom out force may cater to different preferences for typing or gaming purposes.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.4 mm. When comparing and contrasting the two switches, it is evident that in terms of travel distance, both provide a similar experience for users. This means that whether you choose the Beer tactile switch or the Xinhai linear switch, you can expect a consistent key feel as they both have an equal travel distance. This similarity ensures that users will have a familiar typing experience regardless of which switch they choose, making it a matter of personal preference rather than a significant difference in travel distance.
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 Xinhai has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai 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
In terms of sound, both the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch are described as having a clacky sound signature, producing sharp and snappy sounds when pressed. This means that users can expect a crisp, bright, and percussive sound with either switch. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is known for being easy-to-press and offering a gentle resistance during key presses. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Beer switch boasts a stepped tactility, providing a more subtle feel compared to other tactile switches. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch is described as bouncy and creamy, offering a spring-like feedback sensation with a smooth and buttery typing experience. This means that users can expect a lively feel with a rebound effect when pressing the keys, coupled with a silky sensation while typing.
Overall, while the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch may have similar clacky sound signatures, they offer different tactile and typing experiences. The Beer switch provides a lightweight and easy-to-press feel with a stepped tactility, while the Xinhai switch delivers a bouncy and creamy typing experience. Depending on personal preference for typing feel and sound, users can choose between these two switches to enhance their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a light bottom out force and a subtle tactility with a characteristic clacky sound, the Gateron Beer tactile switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with an even lighter bottom out force, a bouncy and creamy feel, along with a clacky sound profile, then the HMX Xinhai linear switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for.
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