Gateron Glory Yellow vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Glory Yellow and Gateron Silent Ink Black are both compelling options, each catering to different preferences and environments. The Glory Yellow switch is celebrated for its heavier feel and smooth keystroke, providing an enjoyable typing experience with a satisfying travel distance. Ideal for users who appreciate a tactile sensation during their typing sessions, this switch excels in delivering a robust and engaging feel. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black switch is designed for those who require a quieter operation without sacrificing performance. Known for its silky, muted characteristics, this switch boasts a cushy, pillow-like bottom-out feel combined with minimal audio feedback, making it a perfect choice for office settings or shared spaces. While both switches offer a linear experience, the choice between the two ultimately hinges on whether you prioritize a more pronounced typing feel or a silent, unobtrusive sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Glory Yellow Linear

Gateron Silent Ink Black Linear

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

$8.50

$8.35 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Gateron Silent Ink Black, a distinct difference emerges between the two switches. The Glory Yellow features a nylon top and bottom housing, which is a classic switch housing material known for its ability to create a deep and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic properties enable it to absorb more sound, resulting in a dull, rounded auditory experience. In essence, when one types on the Glory Yellow, the comforting depth of sound is a hallmark of the nylon materials it employs, contributing to an overall tactile and auditory satisfaction.

Contrastingly, the Silent Ink Black switches utilize a proprietary INK blend for both their top and bottom housings. This material is designed to produce a higher-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. The pointed sound profile can be attributed to the unique characteristics of the INK blend, which diverges greatly from the qualities of nylon. When typing on the Silent Ink Black, the experience is different from that of the Glory Yellow; the sound is less subdued and more pronounced, invoking a more stimulated auditory response that many enthusiasts find appealing. The impact of this material on the sound produced upon key release is pronounced due to its high-pitched nature, creating a distinct contrast to the Glory Yellow’s overall sound profile.

Despite the differences in housing materials, users can expect that both the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Silent Ink Black will yield satisfying results, albeit in different acoustic tones. The influence of housing materials on sound will manifest differently in each switch, with the Glory Yellow's nylon having a dominating effect on creating a deeper sound during key presses, while the Silent Ink Black provides a clackier and lighter sound profile. If one were to use both switches in a keyboard, it would be possible to experience varying auditory sensations based on the mechanical characteristics of each switch, showcasing Gateron’s versatility in design while allowing for varied personal preferences in sound and feel.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in actuation force. The Glory Yellow requires an actuation force of 50 grams, making it the lighter option, which can be beneficial for those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black has a higher actuation force of 60 grams, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. The bottom out force for the Glory Yellow remains unknown, while the Silent Ink Black has a bottom out force of 70 grams, categorized as medium-heavy. This indicates that while the Glory Yellow may allow for quicker actuation, the Silent Ink Black offers a firmer feel not only when typing but also when bottoming out. Therefore, those seeking a lighter touch will find the Glory Yellow more suitable, whereas those who prefer a heavier, more substantial push should opt for the Silent Ink Black.

Travel distance

The Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equivalent in that regard. This means that users can expect a similar tactile experience when pressing down on either switch, as both require the same amount of downward movement to actuate. Since they share the same travel distance, typists and gamers alike will likely achieve similar results in terms of key response and feedback, regardless of which switch they choose. Ultimately, their equal travel distances contribute to a consistent performance, allowing for a seamless transition between the two switches.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch has a sound profile that can be characterized by a moderate acoustic signature, providing a more traditional mechanical keyboard sound that could be described as pleasant without being overly loud. In contrast, the Gateron Silent Ink Black is designed for a quieter experience, offering a muted sound that significantly reduces noise levels, making it an ideal choice for environments where discretion is key. The Silent Ink Black minimizes the typical sounds associated with mechanical keyboards, allowing for a more subdued typing experience that keeps the peace in shared spaces.

When it comes to feel, the Glory Yellow switch is recognized for its smooth keystroke and an enjoyable travel distance, which contributes to a satisfying typing experience. It delivers a good balance between resistance and ease of actuation. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black offers a luxurious tactile feel with its silky and polished characteristics, emphasizing an exceptionally smooth typing experience. The well-refined texture minimizes friction and enhances the overall keystroke motion, culminating in a plush bottom-out feel that can make long typing sessions more comfortable.

In conclusion, while the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch provides an enjoyable and classic mechanical feel along with a more pronounced sound profile, the Gateron Silent Ink Black focuses on delivering a quiet, smooth, and comfortable typing experience. If your priority is a standard acoustic experience with a satisfying tactile feedback, the Glory Yellow is the way to go. However, if you need a quieter environment, the Silent Ink Black excels with its muted acoustics and silky smoothness. Each switch offers unique benefits that cater to different preferences, ensuring that you'll find a satisfying typing experience with either option.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch ultimately depends on your typing environment and personal preferences. If you’re looking for a smooth keystroke that provides an enjoyable experience with a relatively lighter touch, the Glory Yellow would be the ideal pick. It's perfect for those who appreciate a satisfying travel distance and a lively, responsive feel, especially in gaming scenarios where quick actions are key. However, if you often find yourself typing in quiet environments or shared spaces where noise can be disruptive, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch is your best option. With its medium-heavy bottom-out force and muted sound profile, this switch ensures a silky and polished typing feel while significantly reducing audible feedback, making it suitable for late-night work sessions or open office settings. Ultimately, your choice should reflect whether you prioritize sound and tactile feedback or a lively and engaging typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Glory Yellow Linear

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Silent Ink Black Linear

$8.50

$8.35 per 10

Learn more