Bsun Cliff vs. Gateron Ink Red
An in-depth look at the Bsun Cliff and the Gateron Ink Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to personal preference and typing style. The Bsun Cliff tactile switch stands out with its medium tactility and crisp sound signature, making it an invigorating choice for users who appreciate tactile feedback and an auditory cue with each keystroke. This feature can enhance typing accuracy and satisfaction, especially for those who enjoy a more engaged typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch appeals to users who favor a smoother, quieter experience, thanks to its lower actuation force and effortless typing action. Characterized as neutral and silky with a mildly chirpy sound profile, the Ink Red is perfect for individuals with a lighter touch, providing a polished and satisfying feel as they type. While the Cliff is ideal for those seeking tactile feedback, the Ink Red caters to users who prefer fluidity and subtlety in their keystrokes. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your unique needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Bsun Cliff and Gateron Ink Red switches showcase distinct housing materials that influence their sound profiles in unique ways. The Bsun Cliff utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, recognized for its stiffer properties which yield a sharper and crisper sound. This material is ideal for environments where RGB lighting is a consideration, as its translucency allows light to pass through effectively, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switch. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Red's top housing employs a proprietary INK blend that produces a higher-pitched sound profile that is described as pointed and clacky. Although both switches exhibit elevated sound characteristics, the Cliff's material emphasizes a clearer sound, while the Ink Red's top housing leans toward a more pleasing, albeit slightly softer, high-pitched output.
In the lower housing, notable differences continue between the two switches. The Bsun Cliff features a nylon bottom housing, which inherently provides a deeper and fuller sound due to nylon's ability to absorb sound better than harder plastics. This results in a sound profile that is rounder and more muted compared to the brighter sound of the top housing. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red maintains a uniformity with its proprietary INK blend for the bottom housing as well. This consistency means that the Ink Red leverages the same higher-pitched, clacky tonal quality throughout its entire structure, creating a cohesive sound experience that lacks the depth found in the Bsun Cliff's nylon.
Ultimately, the differences between the Bsun Cliff and Gateron Ink Red reside in the materials used for their housings. While the Cliff's polycarbonate top and nylon bottom work together to produce a dynamic sound profile with contrasts of sharp top-end clarity and deeper undertones, the Ink Red's exclusive INK blend offers a more consistent auditory experience characterized by its elevated pitch. If someone were to use both switches in a typing experience, they would note that the Cliff provides a more nuanced sound range during the keystroke process, with the materials playing distinct roles depending on whether the key is pressed or released. The Ink Red, meanwhile, promises a uniform clackiness through both housings, appealing to users who prefer a consistent sound signature without the added depth contrast offered by the Cliff.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Cliff switch has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it light overall, which is ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Ink Red switch features a higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium-force switch. This means that the Ink Red provides a more substantial push feel, appealing to users who prefer a heavier typing experience. Ultimately, users favoring lighter switches may gravitate toward the Cliff, while those seeking a stronger tactile feedback should consider the Gateron Ink Red.
Travel distance
The Bsun Cliff tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Ink Red linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Cliff the shorter option, providing a more responsive feel that is often favored by gamers for faster keystrokes. In contrast, the Ink Red with its longer travel distance offers a more traditional typing experience, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial tactile response. Thus, if you value rapid response times, the Cliff may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a deeper keystroke typical of traditional switch designs, the Ink Red would likely be more satisfying.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Cliff has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cliff for $2.19.
The Gateron Ink Red has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Red for $7.35.
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 Bsun Cliff tactile switch is characterized by a crisp sound signature that adds a distinctive auditory pleasure to each keystroke. This switch is particularly known for its medium tactility, which contributes to a satisfying auditory experience as users receive both feedback and sound upon activation. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch offers a more varied acoustic profile that includes chirpy elements, presenting a blend of neutrality with a touch of squeak. This results in a crispy and clacky sound that can make typing feel more lively. Both switches, however, will exhibit sound variations depending on the keyboard build and the type of keycaps used, meaning that final sound experience can differ significantly depending on these external factors.
In terms of feel, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch stands out due to its invigorating feedback, providing a pronounced response upon actuation. Users will appreciate the moderate to firm actuation force, which returns a snappy, reactive sensation that enhances the overall typing experience. The Gateron Ink Red, on the other hand, excels in offering a silky feel that ensures a smooth typing experience with minimal resistance. The switches are described as mild and polished, indicating that they deliver a gentle and approachable typing experience while maintaining a sleek and refined key travel. This allows for effortless typing, catering to users who prefer a lighter touch.
In summary, the Bsun Cliff and Gateron Ink Red switches each deliver distinct sound and feel characteristics that will appeal to different preferences. The Cliff offers a crisp, invigorating tactile experience that many users enjoy for its feedback and sound, while the Ink Red switch promotes a silky, smooth typing sensation with notable ease and a touch of sonic character. Those looking for pronounced tactile feedback may gravitate towards the Cliff, while those who favor a smoother, lighter touch could find the Ink Reds more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, but both options promise a satisfying experience when paired with the right keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a more interactive experience that provides pronounced feedback and a moderately firm actuation force, the Cliff tactile switch is an excellent option. Its invigorating feel, combined with a medium tactile bump and a crisp sound signature, makes it particularly appealing for those who enjoy a tactile and engaging typing experience, especially if you're often typing long documents or programming. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and quiet typing experience with a lighter touch, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch is ideal. Its silky feel, mild actuation requirement, and smooth travel make it perfect for those who tend to type quickly or lightly, whether for casual use or gaming. The Ink Red's neutral yet crispy sound profile also makes it versatile enough for various environments, whether at home or in an office. Therefore, your choice should reflect how tactile feedback and sound play into your typing experience—lean towards the Cliff for that tactile satisfaction or select the Ink Red for effortless smoothness and versatility.
Mentioned in this article
