TTC Gold Pink vs. Gateron Ink Red
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the Gateron Ink Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Gold Pink and the Gateron Ink Red. The Gold Pink switches are known for their incredibly light 37g actuation force, making them ideal for a fast and effortless typing experience. These switches are perfect for avid typists and gamers alike, providing a satisfying level of feedback with their clacky sound. On the other hand, the Ink Red switches offer a lower actuation force, catering to those with a lighter typing style. They offer a smooth and effortless typing experience, accompanied by a crispy and clacky sound profile. Both switches are categorized as polished, providing a refined and precise feel. However, let's delve deeper into the specifics of each switch to help you decide which one is the best fit for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Pink and the Gateron Ink Red have different housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Gold Pink features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is because polycarbonate is stiffer, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the Ink Red utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is not overly sharp. Both materials offer a satisfying thin and clacky sound, albeit with slightly different characteristics.
In terms of bottom housings, the Gold Pink utilizes a nylon material, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the Ink Red features Gateron's proprietary INK blend bottom housing, which also contributes to its clacky sound profile. Both bottom housings deliver a relatively high-pitched sound, though the specific qualities may vary.
It's important to note that the top and bottom housings play different roles in the overall switch sound and feel. The bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and the tactile feel when pressing down on a key. In contrast, the top housing has more influence on the sound when releasing a key. While the materials may differ, both the Gold Pink and the Ink Red aim to provide a satisfying typing experience, albeit with slight variations in sound characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Gold Pink switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, meaning it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Ink Red switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. This means that those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Gold Pink switch more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Gold Pink switch has a bottom out force of 45 grams, which is slightly heavier than its actuation force. On the other hand, the Ink Red switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it noticeably heavier than its actuation force. This indicates that the Ink Red switch provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel.
It is worth noting that while the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gold Pink switch differ, both forces are relatively light. Similarly, the actuation force and bottom out force of the Ink Red switch are in the medium range. Therefore, although there are differences in force requirements, users can expect similar results when typing or gaming on either switch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel the switch travel 4 mm from the top to the bottom. Both switches provide a consistent and satisfying key press experience with equal travel distances, ensuring that you'll get similar results in terms of tactile feedback and key responsiveness. So, whether you choose the TTC Gold Pink or the Gateron Ink Red, you can expect a comparable travel distance for a comfortable typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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
In terms of sound, the Gold Pink TTC switch is best known for its clacky sound profile. This provides a satisfying level of feedback, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. On the other hand, the Ink Red Gateron switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, meaning it falls somewhere in the middle and is suitable for most intents and purposes. Additionally, the Ink Red switch is described as having a chirpy sound, which sets it apart from other switches. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gold Pink TTC switch is described as being buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. This makes typing seamless and effortless, offering a uniform typing sensation. The Gold Pink switch is also considered mild, as it offers a gentle typing experience that is approachable for most users. Additionally, it is described as feathery, meaning it is exceptionally light to press and reduces finger fatigue. Furthermore, the Gold Pink switch is subtle, meaning it has a gentle resistance and is suitable for shared spaces.
Likewise, the Ink Red Gateron switch is also considered mild, offering a more gentle typing experience. The switch provides a smooth and silky typing feel, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The Ink Red switch, like the Gold Pink, is also polished, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, both the Gold Pink TTC switch and the Ink Red Gateron switch offer impressive qualities. The Gold Pink provides a light and lively typing experience with its clacky sound profile and varied feel descriptors such as buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished. On the other hand, the Ink Red switch offers a smooth and effortless typing experience, accompanied by a neutral sound profile. While there may be slight differences in sound and feel between the two switches, both will deliver similar results, providing a pleasant typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light and lively typing experience with a fast and effortless feel, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. With its light bottom out force of 45 grams and 37g actuation force, these switches are perfect for both rapid typing and gaming. They offer a satisfying level of feedback with their clacky sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly higher actuation force of 60 grams and a medium bottom out force, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch would be more suitable. These switches are known for their satisfyingly smooth feel and crispy, clacky sound. They are effortless to type on and are perfect for those with a lighter typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style, whether you prefer a lighter and more lively experience or a slightly heavier yet smooth and effortless feel.
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