Gateron Ink Red vs. Durock Medium Tactile

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Gateron Ink Red and the Durock Medium Tactile. The Ink Red is a linear switch, known for its lower actuation force, making it ideal for those with a lighter typing style. With a satisfyingly smooth feel and a crispy and clacky sound profile, typing on the Ink Reds is effortless. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile is a tactile switch that stands out for its unique flavor. It offers a pronounced yet balanced tactility and produces a jelly-like sound signature. Both switches are categorized as 'Mild' and 'Polished,' ensuring a comfortable typing experience. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on which switch is best suited for your needs.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Red Linear

Durock Medium Tactile Tactile

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and the Durock Medium Tactile differ in several ways. The Ink Red features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which creates a relatively high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. In contrast, the Medium Tactile utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing of the Medium Tactile is translucent, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting.

Moving on to the bottom housing, the Ink Red and the Medium Tactile offer distinct qualities. The Ink Red uses the same proprietary INK blend bottom housing as its top housing, resulting in a similar thin and higher-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Medium Tactile utilizes a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This leads to a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housing.

It is important to note that the impact of the housing materials on the switch's sound and feel is divided between the top and bottom housings. The qualities of the bottom housing, whether it is the INK blend or nylon, greatly influence the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. Conversely, the top housing material, whether it is the INK blend or polycarbonate, has a greater impact on the sound produced when a key is released. Therefore, while the housing materials of the Ink Red and the Medium Tactile differ, they both contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch, there are some noticeable differences. The Ink Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the actuation force for the Medium Tactile switch is unknown. Due to the lack of information, we cannot directly compare their actuation forces. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Ink Red requiring 60 grams and the Medium Tactile demanding 65 grams of force.

Considering weight is important for various reasons. Those who prefer a lighter feel might opt for the Ink Red, as it enables them to type comfortably for longer periods of time. This is particularly beneficial for individuals using their keyboards for work or engaged in extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience might prefer the Medium Tactile switch. With a bottom out force of 65 grams, it provides a stronger push feel, making each keystroke feel more significant.

While the specific actuation force of the Medium Tactile switch remains unknown, it is safe to assume that it falls within the medium or medium-heavy range due to its higher bottom out force compared to the Ink Red. Both switches offer their own unique advantages, allowing users to tailor their typing experience according to their preferences.

Travel distance

The Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar experience in terms of the distance you feel when pressing down on a key. Users can expect a consistent feel and response from both switches due to their equal travel distance. Whether you choose the Gateron Ink Red or the Durock Medium Tactile, you can rely on a comfortable typing experience with a 4 mm travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Red switch is known for its neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of purposes. The switch provides a crisp and clacky sound, which adds to the overall satisfaction of using it. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile switch has no specific sound description provided, so we can't make any definitive comparisons. However, it is important to note that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Red switch offers a silky and polished typing experience. It is exceptionally smooth, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The switch falls into the mild category, providing a more gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. This smoothness is attributed to the use of high-quality materials or factory lubing. Conversely, the Durock Medium Tactile switch offers an accented feel, meaning it provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming. It also falls into the mild category, which ensures a safe and comfortable typing experience. Like the Gateron Ink Red, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is also described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish.

In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch is recommended for those with a lighter typing style who prefer a neutral sound profile and a silky, polished feel. It provides a satisfyingly smooth typing experience with a crisp and clacky sound. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch offers a pronounced yet balanced tactility, but without a specific sound or feel description provided, we can't make a direct comparison. However, if you prefer a mild and polished tactile switch, the Durock Medium Tactile may provide similar results to the Gateron Ink Red in terms of sound and feel. Remember that the choice of keyboard and keycaps can also influence the overall sound and feel of the switches.

Conclusion

In closing, if you prefer a lighter typing style and a smoother typing experience, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch would be a great choice for you. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, it offers a moderate actuation force that is suitable for both beginners and advanced typists. The Ink Reds are known for their satisfyingly smooth feel and crispy and clacky sound profile. Additionally, if you enjoy a switch with a neutral sound profile or a unique chirpy sound, the Ink Red has got you covered.

On the other hand, if you're looking for a tactile switch with a more pronounced tactility and a slightly heavier bottom out force, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is worth considering. With a bottom out force of 65 grams, it falls under the medium-heavy category in terms of actuation force. The Medium Tactile switches from Durock offer a balanced tactility and a jelly-like sound signature. These switches also have a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. If you prefer a switch with a mild feel, or if you're interested in trying out an accented or stepped switch, the Durock Medium Tactile is a good fit for you.

Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch depends on your personal preferences in terms of typing style, feel, and sound. Consider factors such as actuation force, smoothness, tactility, and sound profile to make an informed decision. Whether you prioritize a lighter typing style and smoothness, or a tactile typing experience with a pronounced tactility, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Red Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn more

Durock Medium Tactile Tactile

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn more