Gateron Ink Red vs. HMX Lucky

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Red and HMX Lucky both present compelling options for users who prefer a linear typing experience. The Ink Red is celebrated for its lower actuation force, making it an ideal choice for those with a lighter typing style. It offers an incredibly smooth feel combined with a crispy, clacky sound profile that many find enticingly satisfying. In contrast, the HMX Lucky switches feature softer nylon housings, providing a neutral and deeply enjoyable typing experience, albeit without a distinct sound profile. Those who prioritize a gentle tactile sensation and a lighter weighted switch may lean towards the Lucky. Ultimately, both switches cater to unique preferences in feel and sound, making either option a worthy consideration. 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 Ink Red Linear

HMX Lucky Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and HMX Lucky switches, we see distinct differences that impact their sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Gateron Ink Red utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housings, which contributes to a pointed and high-pitched sound that many users find satisfying. This clacky sound profile stems from the rigidity of the INK blend, which provides a crisp auditory feedback when typing. In contrast, the HMX Lucky switch features nylon housing for both its top and bottom sections. Nylon's softer characteristics inherently produce a deeper, fuller sound. This difference in material properties can significantly influence the auditory experience, with the Lucky switch providing a rounder sound overall due to nylon's sound-absorbing qualities.

The impact of each housing material is especially pronounced when considering their top and bottom housings. The Gateron Ink Red's INK blend top housing is designed to enhance the sound that occurs upon key release, ensuring a sharp and lively acoustic response. While the bottom housing also affects the sound and feel at bottom-out, it tends to reflect the overall clackiness that the INK material brings. In contrast, the HMX Lucky's nylon top housing will allow for a smoother experience during release, but the deeper tone of the nylon will shine more during the act of bottoming out. This means that users who prefer a more subdued sound profile might gravitate towards the Lucky switch, whereas those who favor an engaging and high-pitched typing sound may favor the Ink Red.

Overall, while both switches cater to different auditory preferences, their materials evoke unique sound profiles and tactile experiences. A user who enjoys the engaging clackiness of the Gateron Ink Red will find the clear, high-pitched feedback appealing for dynamic typing. Conversely, the HMX Lucky, with its nylon housing, will resonate with those who appreciate a softer and fuller sound. Ultimately, even though the materials differ, both switches can deliver satisfying typing experiences—albeit in very different sonic landscapes—highlighting how housing materials play a crucial role in shaping our interaction with mechanical keyboards.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Ink Red linear switch to the HMX Lucky linear switch, notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces highlight their varying feels during use. The Ink Red features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, classifying it as a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Lucky switch offers a lighter experience, with an actuation force of just 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. This significant difference means that typists and gamers who prefer less resistance and a more effortless keystroke would likely gravitate towards the HMX Lucky. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a heavier feel may find the Gateron Ink Red more satisfying. Therefore, while the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches differ, they cater to distinct preferences, with the Lucky being the lighter option and the Ink Red being the heavier one.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch, the Ink Red measures 4 mm, while the Lucky has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference of 0.2 mm indicates that the Ink Red provides a more traditional depth, potentially appealing to users who favor a more substantial feel when pressing down on keys. In contrast, the slightly shorter travel distance of the Lucky switch may cater to gamers seeking quicker response times, as shorter distances allow for faster actuation. Ultimately, if you prioritize responsiveness and a snappier experience, the HMX Lucky linear switch would be the better choice, whereas those who enjoy a heartier keypress might prefer the Gateron Ink Red.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch exhibits a distinctive crispy and clacky sound profile, characterized by its chirpy nature, while still maintaining a neutral tone overall. This makes it versatile, accommodating various environments and user preferences, whether you are at home or in a professional setting. On the other hand, the HMX Lucky linear switch lacks specific sound descriptors, leaving its acoustic signature largely unknown. However, the Ink Red's engaging sound is likely to appeal to those who appreciate a bit of character in their typing experience.

When it comes to feel, the Ink Red switch offers a silky and polished typing sensation, which minimizes resistance and friction, resulting in a smooth and refined key travel. It’s a mild switch, striking a balance that ensures comfort for both casual and avid typists, making it highly approachable for anyone. In contrast, the feel of the Lucky switches is not explicitly detailed, leaving questions about their tactile feedback and overall typing experience unanswered. While the Ink Red provides a clear advantage in tactile quality, the Lucky may still be enjoyable in its own right, depending on individual user preferences.

In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch stands out with its engaging sound profile and exceptional silky feel, making it a great choice for users seeking a satisfying typing experience. The HMX Lucky’s attributes are not explicitly available, but it is suggested to deliver a deeply satisfying experience, albeit with less specificity in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a switch with known qualities, the Ink Red is a solid option, while the Lucky could be an intriguing alternative for those seeking something different, though its characteristics remain largely a mystery.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch ultimately depends on your typing style and preferences. If you gravitate towards a more traditional typing experience that combines a satisfying sound profile with a medium bottom-out force, the Ink Red will likely serve you well. Its smooth and polished feel, along with a chirpy sound that adds character, makes it suitable for both home and work environments, especially if you prefer a bit more heft in your keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter, effortless touch, the Lucky might be the better choice for you. With its lighter bottom-out force and neutral feel, it caters to those who appreciate a softer typing experience and might even offer more agility for fast-paced typing sessions. Ultimately, consider the balance between force and sound that appeals to you personally, as both switches offer unique advantages that can enhance your overall typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Red Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn more

HMX Lucky Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more