Gateron Ink Red vs. Gateron Mountain Top
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the Gateron Mountain Top switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Red and the Gateron Mountain Top mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes apparent that each switch offers unique benefits tailored to different preferences and environments. The Ink Red, a linear switch, is ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing style due to its lower actuation force. Known for its smoothness and crisp, clacky sound profile, the Ink Reds provide an effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Mountain Top linear switch is designed for office settings, offering a quiet yet tactile typing experience. With a focus on subtle sound and comfortable actuation, the Mountain Top switches are perfect for professional environments. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and Gateron Mountain Top switches offer distinct sound profiles due to their different compositions. The Ink Red's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a pointed and high-pitched sound that is described as clacky, while the Mountain Top's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound of the INK blend top housing.
Similarly, when it comes to the bottom housing of these switches, the differences in material are evident in the sound and feel of typing. The INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Red switch maintains the sharp and high-pitched sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Mountain Top switch contributes to a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a rounder sound compared to the clacky sound of the INK blend bottom housing.
Overall, while the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Ink Red and Gateron Mountain Top switches have different material compositions, they both contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The INK blend material of the Ink Red switch offers a sharper and high-pitched sound, while the nylon material of the Mountain Top switch provides a deeper and fuller sound. Despite these differences, both switches offer satisfying typing experiences with unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, it is evident that the Mountain Top switch is lighter in both aspects. The Gateron Ink Red has a medium actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Gateron Mountain Top boasts a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Mountain Top switch requires less force to register a keystroke and to bottom out, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Ink Red switch provides a slightly more substantial typing feel with its higher actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on the force required, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Ink Red has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Mountain Top. The difference may not seem significant, but for those who prefer a deeper key press, the Ink Red may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a quicker and more responsive key press, the Mountain Top with its shorter travel distance could be the way to go. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key feel.
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 Gateron Mountain Top comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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, both the Gateron Ink Red and the Gateron Mountain Top switches fall under the neutral category, offering a moderate sound profile suitable for various environments. However, the Ink Red switch is noted for its chirpy sound, adding a unique acoustic signature to its typing experience. On the other hand, the Mountain Top switch prioritizes quietness, providing a subdued sound signature ideal for office settings. Keep in mind that the sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Ink Red switch is praised for its silky and polished typing experience, offering exceptional smoothness and reduced friction when pressing and releasing keys. Its mild characteristics make it approachable and comfortable for most users. In contrast, the Gateron Mountain Top switch is described as bouncy and easy-to-press, providing a spring-like feedback and low-impact typing feel. Additionally, its subtle resistance and snappiness enhance the overall typing experience, especially for extended use in shared spaces or professional settings.
Overall, while the Gateron Ink Red and Mountain Top switches may have differing sound and feel profiles, they both excel in their respective attributes to cater to diverse preferences and environments. If you are looking for a smooth and polished typing experience with a crispy sound, the Ink Red linear switch is a great option. On the other hand, if you prefer a quiet and bouncy typing feel that is easy on the fingers, the Mountain Top linear switch is an excellent choice. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance and reliability, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for newcomers and enthusiasts alike.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, consider your typing style and environment. If you prefer a smooth and crispy typing experience with a moderate actuation force, the Ink Red would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you work in an office setting and prioritize a quiet yet light actuation switch, the Mountain Top would be more fitting. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences and the specific requirements of your typing environment.
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