Gateron Ink Red vs. Bsun Jade Rosales
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the Bsun Jade Rosales switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Red and Bsun Jade Rosales offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Ink Red is favored for its lower actuation force, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a lighter touch while typing. Users often appreciate its smooth keystrokes combined with a crispy, clacky sound profile, providing an engaging auditory experience. In contrast, the Bsun Jade Rosales switches stand out for their meticulously refined design, which includes custom housings, stems, and unique lubrication techniques. This attention to detail results in an exceptionally smooth typing experience, appealing to enthusiasts who desire precision and quality in their keystrokes. While both switches are linear and designed for smooth actuation, their varying sound profiles and tactile feelings make them suitable for different users. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3X
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Custom Milky Material
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
20.5mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and Bsun Jade Rosales switches, one noticeable distinction is found in their top housing composition. The Gateron Ink Red utilizes a proprietary INK blend, which produces a sound profile described as pointed and relatively high-pitched, reminiscent of a clacky sound. In contrast, the Bsun Jade Rosales employs polycarbonate for its top housing, resulting in a sharper, clearer, and crisper sound profile. While both materials contribute to a higher-pitched audio experience, the sharper clarity of polycarbonate can enhance the overall auditory sensation, particularly in a setup designed for RGB lighting due to its transparent nature. Consequently, users may experience distinct nuances in sound when pressing keys, with the Ink Red often providing a slightly softer clack compared to the defined clarity of the Jade Rosales.
The bottom housing of both switches presents another differentiating factor, with the Ink Red utilizing the same proprietary INK blend, while the Jade Rosales features a Custom Milky Material. The Ink Red's bottom housing also contributes to the overall thin and high-pitched sound profile, ensuring consistency throughout the switch. On the other hand, the Custom Milky Material found in the Jade Rosales provides its unique tactile experience while further emphasizing the distinct qualities of the switch. The impact of each bottom housing is particularly significant during actuation, as it influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed.
When the differing materials of the top and bottom housings are considered together, the overall tonal experience can remain similarly elevated despite the variations in construction. Both switches maintain a high-pitched sound profile; therefore, users can expect a satisfying auditory feedback during actuation and release regardless of the housing differences. While the specifics of each product may lead to a unique feel and sound, the shared qualities of their higher-pitched profiles suggest that they can provide a comparable experience for enthusiasts who value those auditory sensations in their keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Bsun Jade Rosales linear switch, both exhibit the same actuation force of 45 grams, which means they require an equal amount of pressure to register a keystroke. However, their bottom-out forces differ, with the Ink Red reaching 60 grams while the Jade Rosales has a lower bottom-out force of 53 grams. This distinction makes the Jade Rosales feel slightly lighter overall, particularly when fully pressed down, which can be advantageous for users engaging in extended typing or gaming sessions, as it may reduce finger fatigue. In contrast, the Ink Red's higher bottom-out force provides a more tactile response that some users might prefer for a more substantial typing experience. Consequently, while the actuation forces are the same, the differing bottom-out forces suggest that the Ink Red may appeal to those who like a stronger push feel, whereas the Jade Rosales caters to those seeking a lighter touch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Bsun Jade Rosales linear switch, there is a clear distinction. The Ink Red boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the most traditional travel distance, appealing to users who appreciate a more pronounced depth in their keystrokes. In contrast, the Jade Rosales has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, catering to those who prefer faster response times, a trait often favored by gamers. This difference indicates that the Ink Red offers a more substantial feel while the Jade Rosales provides a quicker actuation, making each suitable for different user preferences. Therefore, if you value a more heartfelt keystroke, the Gateron Ink Red would be the ideal choice, whereas the Bsun Jade Rosales will appeal to those seeking quicker, more responsive feedback from their keys.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Bsun Jade Rosales has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jade Rosales for $5.39.
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 Ink Red linear switch presents a crisp and clacky auditory profile, contributing to an engaging typing experience that many users find satisfying. This switch has a distinctive chirpy quality that adds character while remaining neutral enough to be suitable for various environments, whether at home or in the office. In contrast, the sound profile of the Bsun Jade Rosales is unknown, leaving potential users to speculate on its acoustic properties until they have the opportunity to test these switches.
In terms of feel, the Ink Red linear switch excels with its silky, polished characteristics, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance upon key presses. Its mild nature lends itself well to all users, from beginners to those more seasoned, making it approachable and user-friendly. The Jade Rosales, on the other hand, also boasts a meticulously refined design aimed at creating overall smoothness, but without specific descriptors available, it’s difficult to make a direct comparison on how it would feel relative to the Ink Reds.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch is a solid choice for those seeking a smooth, lightly activated experience paired with a distinctive sound profile. The Jade Rosales has a promise of refinement and smoothness but lacks detailed sound and feel descriptors for a clear direct comparison. Overall, while both switches aim to deliver satisfying experiences, if you prefer clarity in sound and feel, the Ink Red may be the more predictable option at this time.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the Gateron Ink Red and the Bsun Jade Rosales linear switches ultimately hinges on your personal typing preferences and the experience you seek. If you favor a slightly heavier feel and enjoy a typing experience characterized by smoothness, a mild sound profile, and a touch of crispness, the Ink Red would likely suit you well. Its 60-gram bottom-out force makes it forgiving for all-day typing sessions, whether at home or in a professional setting. Its unique chirpy sound adds a playful element to your keystrokes, which might be appealing if you appreciate auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter, more effortless typing experience, the Jade Rosales with its 53-gram bottom-out force may be the better option for you. These switches are renowned for their ultra-smooth action, making them ideal for rapid typing without the tactile bumps annoyingly slowing you down. Given their precise engineering, the Jade Rosales can provide a refined experience that caters to those who want a quiet yet highly enjoyable typing feel. Ultimately, both switches offer unique advantages; your choice should reflect whether you lean towards a slightly more substantial feel of the Ink Red or the feather-light touch of the Jade Rosales.
Mentioned in this article
