Gateron Beer vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Beer, a tactile switch, and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, a linear switch. The Beer switch is unique in its design, evoking the sparkling allure of a Tsingtao beer bottle with its translucent green color. It offers a refreshingly light typing experience with a stepped tactility that provides a subtle feel, accompanied by a characteristic clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° switch by Gateron is known for its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, delivering unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise. The Beer switch is ideal for those who prefer a tactile typing experience with a unique sound profile, while the Zero Degree 0° switch is perfect for those seeking a smooth and silent typing experience. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Beer and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° both feature polycarbonate top housings, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the Beer has a polycarbonate bottom housing as well, while the Zero Degree 0° features a nylon bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing on the Zero Degree 0° elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than polycarbonate. This results in a duller and rounder sound on the Zero Degree 0° compared to the Beer.
In terms of feel and sound, the bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressed down, while the top housing impacts the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the differences in housing materials between the Beer and the Zero Degree 0° will result in varying tactile experiences for users. The stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing of the Beer may provide a sharper feel upon bottoming out compared to the softer nylon bottom housing of the Zero Degree 0°. Additionally, the crisp sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing of both switches may create a more satisfying auditory experience for users who enjoy a higher-pitched sound profile.
Ultimately, when it comes to housing materials, the Gateron Beer and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° offer different sound profiles and tactile experiences due to their respective top and bottom housing materials. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches results in a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for RGB lighting setups. However, the choice of nylon for the Zero Degree 0°'s bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, giving it a distinct feel compared to the all-polycarbonate housing of the Beer. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users may find one switch more appealing over the other based on the housing materials used.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is evident that the Beer is lighter in terms of actuation force at 38 grams, while the Zero Degree 0° is slightly heavier at 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Beer is 50 grams, providing a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Zero Degree 0°, whose bottom out force is unknown. The actuation force of the Beer being lighter may appeal to those who prefer a more effortless typing experience for extended periods of time, such as for work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the heavier actuation force of the Zero Degree 0° may be more suitable for users who desire a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Both switches offer different levels of force which cater to the preferences of individuals, with the Beer providing a lighter touch and the Zero Degree 0° offering a potentially heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Gateron Beer tactile switch. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prefer faster response times, such as gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference, with the Gateron Beer offering a slightly shorter travel distance for a quicker response, and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° providing a slightly longer travel distance for those who prefer a deeper key press.
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 Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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 characteristic clacky sound signature, providing a sharp and percussive sound when pressed. On the other hand, information on the sound of the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is not provided, so it is difficult to compare the two in this aspect. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is described as being easy-to-press and offering a gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. Additionally, the Beer switch boasts a stepped tactility, providing a subtler feel compared to other tactile switches. On the other hand, information on the feel of the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is not available, making it challenging to directly compare the two in this aspect.
Overall, the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Beer switch is favored for its clacky sound signature and easy-to-press feel with stepped tactility, the Zero Degree 0° switch is praised for its innovative self-padding design, dual-rail structure, smoothness, stability, and noise-reducing properties. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches provide an excellent typing experience that can enhance your overall keyboard usage. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on your individual preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a keyboard switch that offers a unique and refreshing typing experience with a light actuation force and a subtle tactile feel, then the Gateron Beer tactile switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prioritize smoothness, stability, and reduced noise in your typing experience, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is the perfect choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for tactility, sound, and typing feel. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing needs and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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