Gateron Ink Red vs. Cherry MX Black
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the Cherry MX Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your typing style, two options that are worth considering are the Gateron Ink Red and the Cherry MX Black. The Gateron Ink Red is a linear switch that stands out for its lower actuation force, making it ideal for individuals with a lighter typing style. Known for their satisfyingly smooth feel and crispy, clacky sound profile, the Ink Reds offer an effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black is another linear switch that has been perfected by Cherry. With their new Hyperglide tooling, these switches provide a classic textured smoothness that many find comfortable. Typing on MX Blacks offers a familiar deep sound profile. While both switches have their strengths, it's important to dive deeper into their individual characteristics to determine which one is the best fit for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Red and the Cherry MX Black switches have distinct differences in terms of their housing materials. The Ink Red utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housing. This unique blend results in a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, described as clacky. On the other hand, the MX Black switches feature a nylon top and bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder tone. Therefore, when it comes to sound profile, the Ink Red will have a higher-pitched and clacky sound, while the MX Black will produce a deeper and fuller sound.
While the overall sound profiles differ, both the Ink Red and the MX Black switches aim to offer a satisfying typing experience. The INK blend in the Gateron Ink Red provides a thin and higher-pitched sound, which some users find more enjoyable and satisfying. Similarly, the nylon housing of the Cherry MX Black switches results in a deeper and fuller sound, offering a different but equally pleasing typing experience. Therefore, although the sound characteristics may vary, both switches aim to provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing feel.
In terms of how the housing materials impact the overall switch performance, there are some notable distinctions. The bottom housing, which is responsible for the bottom-out sound and feel, plays a significant role in determining the overall typing experience. For the Ink Red, the proprietary INK blend bottom housing contributes to the high-pitched and clacky sound that users appreciate. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the MX Black leads to a deeper sound profile. On the other hand, the top housing is more influential in the sound produced when a key is released. Therefore, although the housing materials differ, the switches aim to deliver a satisfying typing experience through a combination of bottom and top housing characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, it is evident that there are notable differences. The Gateron Ink Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to trigger a keystroke with a lighter touch. In contrast, the Cherry MX Black requires a heavier actuation force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Similarly, when it comes to bottoming out, the Ink Red exerts a force of 60 grams, while the MX Black requires 80 grams, making it even heavier in comparison. Both switches offer a medium to heavy bottom out force, providing a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, those looking for a lighter switch that allows for longer periods of typing or gaming might prefer the Gateron Ink Red, while individuals seeking a more substantial and heavy typing experience might opt for the Cherry MX Black.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience a similar distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and smooth keystroke experience, ensuring a satisfying typing or gaming experience. Thus, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance when using either the Gateron Ink Red or the Cherry MX Black switch.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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, the Gateron Ink Red and the Cherry MX Black offer different qualities. The Ink Red is known for its neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate sound that is suitable for most purposes. However, it also has a unique chirpy characteristic that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the MX Black has a low-pitched sound profile, which gives it a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. It offers a familiar deep sound that many users appreciate. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Ink Red and the MX Black also provide different experiences. The Ink Red is considered silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience. This switch minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys, resulting in enhanced smoothness. It also falls into the mild category, offering a gentle typing experience that most users will find approachable. Additionally, it is described as polished, indicating a sleek typing feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the MX Black is textured, meaning it has noticeable friction when pressed. Some users prefer this subtle texture, while others prefer a smoother typing experience. It is also classified as stiff, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom out compared to other switches.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Red and the Cherry MX Black switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Red provides a satisfyingly smooth typing experience with a crispy and clacky sound profile. It is perfect for those with a lighter typing style. On the other hand, the MX Black offers a classic textured smoothness, with a deep sound profile that many users find familiar. Both switches have their advantages, but it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you are looking for a smooth and effortless typing experience, the Ink Red may be a suitable choice. If you prefer a switch with noticeable friction and a mellow sound, the MX Black could be a good option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you have a lighter typing style and prefer a switch with a lower actuation force, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch would be the better choice for you. These switches are known for their smooth and effortless typing experience, with a crispy and clacky sound profile. They have a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, making them suitable for most intents and purposes. The Ink Red also offers a unique acoustic signature with a slight chirpy sound. In terms of feel, they are described as silky, mild and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier switch with a deeper sound profile, the Cherry MX Black linear switch would be more suitable for you. With Cherry's new Hyperglide tooling, these switches offer a classic textured smoothness while typing. They have a heavy bottom out force of 80 grams, requiring more force to actuate and bottom out compared to other switches. The MX Black switches are known for their low-pitched and mellow tone, providing a more bass-heavy sound experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Red and the Cherry MX Black switches depends on your personal preferences and typing style. Consider factors such as actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel to make an informed decision.
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