Gateron Ink Red vs. Keygeek Keygeek Raw
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Red and Keygeek Raw stand out as popular linear options. The Gateron Ink Red, known for its lower actuation force, is favored by those with a lighter typing style. With a smooth and satisfying feel, along with a crispy and clacky sound profile, the Ink Reds are effortless to type on. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw switches are admired for their unique material blend, combining Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon for a creamy yet lightweight experience. While the Ink Red is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Silky', 'Chirpy', 'Mild', 'Polished', the Keygeek Raw falls under 'Textured', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Subtle'. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct advantages and characteristics worth considering when choosing the best switch for your needs. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Red and Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profile. The Gateron Ink Red features a proprietary INK blend top housing that provides a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound, often described as clacky. In contrast, the Keygeek Raw switches utilize a Nylon & UPE blend top housing exclusive to their brand. While both housing materials aim to enhance the typing experience, the Ink Red's top housing may offer a sharper sound compared to the Keygeek Raw's blend.
When it comes to the bottom housing of these switches, the Gateron Ink Red and Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches again showcase their unique materials. The INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Red provides a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, similar to its top housing. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw switches feature a UMPE & Si blend bottom housing exclusive to their brand. These differences in bottom housing materials can affect the overall feel and sound of the switch, influencing the typing experience for users.
Overall, while the Gateron Ink Red and Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches have different housing materials, they both aim to enhance the typing experience in their own way. The unique qualities of each housing material contribute to the overall sound profile and feel of the switches, providing users with a choice between a sharper, clacky sound with the Ink Red or a different sound profile with the Keygeek Raw switches. Ultimately, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience, with the housing materials playing a crucial role in shaping the overall feel and sound of the switches.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Keygeek Raw has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 57.5 grams compared to the Ink Red's 60 grams. Both switches fall into the medium range in terms of actuation and bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gateron Ink Red would be the better choice, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the Keygeek Raw with its slightly heavier bottom out force may provide a better typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Keygeek Raw linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of typical travel distances for keyboard switches, with the Ink Red being on the longer end and the Keygeek Raw being slightly shorter. Gamers who value quicker response times may prefer the Keygeek Raw with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Ink Red with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
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 Gateron Ink Red linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. They also have a chirpy quality that sets them apart from other switches, adding a unique acoustic signature to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw linear switch also provides a neutral sound profile, making it versatile for various users and settings. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch offers a silky smooth typing experience with minimal resistance, thanks to its polished finish. This makes typing effortless and enjoyable, especially for those who prefer a lighter touch. Additionally, the Ink Reds have a mild feel, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. In contrast, the Keygeek Raw linear switch provides a textured feel out of the box, with noticeable friction when pressed. This can be preferred by users who enjoy a bit of tactile feedback in their typing experience. The Keygeek Raw switches also offer a mild feel that is comfortable and suitable for a wide range of users.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Ink Red and Keygeek Raw linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Ink Red excels in providing a smooth and effortless typing experience with a crispy and clacky sound profile, ideal for those with a lighter typing style. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw switches offer a textured feel and a unique material blend for a creamy yet lightweight typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, you should consider your typing style and preferences. If you prefer a switch with a lower actuation force and a smooth, crispy feel, the Gateron Ink Red is the way to go. On the other hand, if you value a unique material blend, a creamy yet lightweight typing experience, and the opportunity to hand-lube your switches, the Keygeek Keygeek Raw might be the better option for you. Both switches offer a moderate sound profile, making them versatile for various settings. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to personal preference and what characteristics you prioritize in your typing experience.
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