Gateron Glory Red vs. Gateron Ink Yellow
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Red and the Gateron Ink Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Glory Red and the Gateron Ink Yellow offer distinct attributes that cater to different typing preferences, despite both being linear switches. The Glory Red is celebrated for its lightness and smooth keystroke, providing an enjoyable travel distance that enhances the overall typing experience, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize ease of use and prolonged typing sessions. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Yellow presents a shorter travel distance and a unique blend of smoothness with a noticeable clackiness, appealing to users who seek a typing feel that balances the familiarity of laptop keyboards with the satisfaction of a mechanical setup. While both switches deliver enjoyable experiences, they cater to different needs—whether it's the effortless glide of the Glory Red or the more tactile response from the Ink Yellow. 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
45g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
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
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron Glory Red switches utilize a nylon housing for both the top and bottom sections, which is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is largely attributed to nylon's softness, which absorbs sound better than harder plastics. As a result, users can expect a well-rounded auditory experience that minimizes sharp and jarring sounds when typing. This feature is particularly beneficial for those who prefer a typing experience that is more muted and refined, adding a level of comfort in prolonged use, as it reduces the fatigue often associated with higher-pitched switches.
In contrast, the Gateron Ink Yellow switches are housed in a proprietary INK blend, which introduces an entirely different sonic character to the typing experience. The INK blend material produces a pointed, high-pitched sound that can be described as clacky—offering a more vibrant and lively auditory feedback when keystrokes are made. This acoustic trait emerges partly from the unique properties of the INK blend, which does not absorb sound in the same way that nylon does. Consequently, individuals who enjoy audible feedback while typing will find the Ink Yellow switches more appealing due to their sharp and clear sound profile, which can enhance both the enjoyment and satisfaction of each keystroke.
Despite the differences in materials used for housing, the fundamental typing experience between the two switches remains influenced by the respective top and bottom housings. In the case of the Glory Red, the nylon provides a consistent and cohesive sound experience, whereas the dual INK blend housing of the Ink Yellow introduces a crisper sound at the moment of release. If one were to combine the strengths of both switches, they could achieve a hybrid experience: the softer, more muted qualities of the nylon housing would blend with the higher-pitched characteristics of the INK blend, allowing users to enjoy aspects of both sound profiles. Ultimately, whether opting for the more subdued Glory Reds or the more vibrant Ink Yellows, switching materials will lead to distinct auditory feedback and typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Glory Red linear switch to the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, we find notable differences in their actuation forces and bottom out forces that cater to varying preferences for resistance while typing. The Glory Red features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, while the Ink Yellow has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams. This means that the Glory Red is better suited for users who prefer a lighter touch, making it ideal for extensive typing sessions or gaming marathons, as it reduces finger fatigue. However, the Ink Yellow provides a more substantial feel with its heavier actuation force, which may be more appealing for those who enjoy a pronounced push-back while typing. As for the bottom out forces, the Glory Red’s bottom out force is unknown, while the Ink Yellow reaches a bottom out force of 67 grams, indicating a firmer feel when fully pressed down. In summary, if you prefer a lighter switch, the Gateron Glory Red is the way to go, while the Gateron Ink Yellow caters to those who like a heavier touch in their typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch differ slightly in their travel distances, with the Glory Red measuring 3.6 mm and the Ink Yellow at 3.5 mm. In this comparison, the Ink Yellow has the shorter travel distance, while the Glory Red offers a marginally longer distance. Given this difference, users seeking a more responsive experience may prefer the Ink Yellow due to its slightly shorter travel distance, which can facilitate quicker key presses, a characteristic often favored by gamers. Conversely, those who appreciate a bit more depth in their key presses might opt for the Glory Red. Ultimately, while both switches are close in travel distance, the subtle distinction can influence the tactile experience based on personal preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Glory Red has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Red for $4.19.
The Gateron Ink Yellow 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 Yellow 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 Gateron Glory Red linear switch is relatively quiet, providing a subdued experience that makes it suitable for quiet environments. This makes it a good choice for those who prefer minimal auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Yellow offers a more varied auditory experience; it presents a neutral sound profile along with a distinct clacky quality. The clackiness of the Ink Yellow contributes crisp, bright notes upon actuation, which can lend itself to a more dynamic typing experience. It's important to note that the overall sound experience can be influenced by the particular keyboard used and the keycaps selected.
When discussing the feel, the Gateron Glory Red is praised for its smooth keystroke and enjoyable travel distance, allowing for a comfortable and satisfying typing experience. The linear design ensures a consistent resistance throughout the keypress, making it friendly for gamers and typists alike. Alternatively, the Gateron Ink Yellow provides a milder, more approachable typing experience. It features polished characteristics that make every keystroke feel refined and smooth, while still maintaining a short travel distance that appeals to users transitioning from laptop keyboards. The Ink Yellow strikes a balance between tactility and gentleness, ensuring a pleasant interaction with the switch.
In summary, while the Gateron Glory Red and Ink Yellow linear switches cater to different sound and feel preferences, both offer unique and favorable qualities. The Glory Red provides a quieter, smooth experience ideal for more focused environments, while the Ink Yellow delivers an engaging clacky sound and a polished typing feel suited for a broader range of settings. Depending on personal preferences, both switches can provide satisfying results, whether aiming for silence or pleasing auditory feedback during use. Each switch shines in its own way, ensuring that newcomers have quality options to explore in their mechanical keyboard journey.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Glory Red and Gateron Ink Yellow switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you favor a smooth, lighter keystroke with an enjoyable travel distance, the Glory Red switch may be your best option, especially if you're a beginner or someone who enjoys a minimalist typing experience. This switch is likely to provide a more effortless typing feel that’s great for long typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, if you don't mind a medium-heavy bottom out force and prefer a more dynamic sound profile, the Ink Yellow switch could be a better fit. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate a balance between portability and feel, offering a pleasant clackiness that adds character to your keystrokes. Additionally, its polished finish provides a refined typing experience, making it suitable for both work and casual settings. In summary, consider your typing style, the sound you desire, and the pressure you’re comfortable with when selecting between these two linear switches.
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