Gateron Beer vs. Outemu Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the Outemu Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Beer and the Outemu Silver stand out as unique options with distinct characteristics. The Gateron Beer, with its captivating translucent green appearance inspired by Tsingtao beer bottles, offers a tactile typing experience that is both easy-to-press and clacky. Its stepped tactility provides a subtle feel that sets it apart from traditional round tactility switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver is a linear switch that lacks a distinct aesthetic feature but offers a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback. While the Beer switch is ideal for those who prefer a more tactile typing experience, the Silver switch is suitable for those who prioritize a smooth and silent keystroke. 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
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the Outemu Silver, it is evident that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness and clarity. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches ensures that users will experience a distinct sound and aesthetic quality when typing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Gateron Beer features a polycarbonate bottom housing while the Outemu Silver uses a nylon bottom housing. While both materials have their own unique qualities, such as the sharper sound profile from polycarbonate and the deeper sound profile from nylon, the bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. This means that users can expect a different typing experience between the two switches based on the material used in the bottom housing.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Beer and the Outemu Silver may come down to personal preferences in sound and typing feel. Both switches offer a distinct typing experience with their housing materials, whether it be the sharper and clearer sound profile from polycarbonate or the deeper and fuller sound profile from nylon. Ultimately, users looking for a switch with a particular sound and feel can make an informed decision based on the housing materials used in each component of the switch.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Beer is the lighter option compared to the Silver. The actuation force of the Beer at 38 grams is lighter than the Silver's 45 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Beer at 50 grams is also lighter than the Silver's 65 grams, allowing for a softer typing experience overall. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Beer switch for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. On the other hand, the Silver switch offers a heavier push feel, making each keystroke more pronounced and satisfying for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Both switches provide unique typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences for typing sensations.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the Outemu Silver linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Beer switch offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers who value speed. On the other hand, the Silver switch provides a deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, which some users may find more satisfying. Both switches offer unique benefits based on personal preferences, with the Beer switch catering to those who prioritize speed, while the Silver switch appeals to users who prefer a more substantial key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual typing or gaming preferences.
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 Silver 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 distinctive clacky sound signature, which is sharp, snappy, crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver linear switch's sound qualities are unknown. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard body and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is praised for being easy to press, requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force results in a gentle resistance during key presses, making typing effortless and comfortable while reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, the Beer switch offers a stepped tactility, providing a subtler feel compared to round tactility switches. On the contrary, the Outemu Silver linear switch's feel attributes are unspecified.
Considering the available information, it is evident that the Gateron Beer tactile switch excels in both sound and feel aspects with its clacky sound signature and easy-to-press, stepped tactile feel. While the qualities of the Outemu Silver linear switch remain unknown, if one desires a keyboard switch with a unique sound profile and lightweight tactile feedback, the Gateron Beer tactile switch would be a recommended choice. Ultimately, the right switch for you will depend on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a light switch with a unique sparkling design that offers a subtle tactile feel and a clacky sound profile, then the Gateron Beer tactile switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a linear feel and no distinct sound profile, then the Outemu Silver linear switch may be more suited to your typing style. Consider your typing preferences and the feel and sound you desire when making your decision between these two switches.
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