Gateron Beer vs. Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch offer distinct features to cater to different preferences. The Gateron Beer switch stands out for its unique appearance, resembling the translucent green of a Tsingtao beer bottle, and its lightweight design. Known for its stepped tactility, this switch provides a more subtle tactile feedback compared to other switches, along with a characteristic clacky sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch is recognized for its silent operation due to its dustproof design. While the Beer switch is ideal for those who prefer a tactile and easy-to-press typing experience, the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch appeals to users seeking a quiet and smooth linear switch. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for RGB lighting as it is translucent. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches results in a clear and resonant sound profile. However, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean differs with its nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Beer's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall.
In terms of sound, the use of polycarbonate in both the top housings of the Gateron Beer and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean leads to similar qualities of sharpness, higher pitch, and crispness. This is attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate, resulting in a clear and resonant sound profile. However, the differences lie in the bottom housings of the switches. The Beer's polycarbonate bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition that absorbs more sound. These variations in housing materials ultimately impact the overall typing experience on each switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Beer and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean comes down to personal preference in sound and typing feel. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and clear sound profile, the difference in bottom housing materials introduces variations in sound depth and feel. The Beer may appeal to those seeking a crisper sound with a slightly sharper feel, thanks to its polycarbonate bottom housing, whereas the Dustproof Silent Ocean may be favored for its deeper, fuller sound achieved through its nylon bottom housing. Whether one prefers a sharper, higher-pitched sound or a deeper, fuller sound will determine which switch is the better fit for their typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, their actuation and bottom out forces are quite different. The Gateron Beer has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial push feel for users seeking a more forceful typing experience. The difference in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches caters to individuals with varying preferences, with the Gateron Beer being lighter and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean being medium-heavy. Overall, those looking for a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Gateron Beer, while those who prefer a heavier feel may opt for the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, slightly longer than the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. While the difference may seem minimal, it can impact the typing experience. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the slightly shorter travel distance of the Dustproof Silent Ocean, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing may lean towards the Beer tactile switch. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, catering to the growing demand for responsive and efficient keyboard switches.
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 Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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, which provides a sharp and snappy auditory feedback when pressed. This sound signature adds an extra level of satisfaction to the typing experience. On the other hand, information about the sound of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch is not available, so it is difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
As for feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, offering a gentle resistance during key presses that requires minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, the stepped tactility of the Beer switch provides a more nuanced typing experience compared to traditional round tactility switches. On the other hand, information about the tactile feel of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch is not provided, making it challenging to directly compare the two switches in terms of feel.
Overall, if you are looking for a switch with a distinctive clacky sound profile and a light and easy-to-press tactile feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch could be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you are specifically interested in a silent linear switch with dustproof capabilities, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch might be more suitable, even though information regarding its feel and sound is not available. Ultimately, both switches have unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them will depend on your personal typing preferences and priorities.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, consider your preference for the bottom out force. If you prefer a lighter touch and a unique tactile experience with a clacky sound signature, the Beer may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier touch and a silent typing experience, the Dustproof Silent Ocean could be more suited to your needs. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference in terms of feel, sound, and bottom out force, so choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
Mentioned in this article
