Gateron Ink Red vs. Cherry MX Brown

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular choices are the Gateron Ink Red and the Cherry MX Brown. The Gateron Ink Red is a linear switch, known for its lower actuation force, making it ideal for those with a lighter typing style. With its satisfyingly smooth and effortless typing experience, the Ink Reds offer a crispy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Browns are tactile switches that provide a relatively light typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback. These switches are characterized by their subtlety, giving a textured feel while producing a low-pitched sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing preferences.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Red Linear

Cherry MX Brown Tactile

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

$4.00 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron Ink Red and the Cherry MX Brown switches have different housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Gateron Ink Red features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which is known for its satisfying thin and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. While both switches produce audible sound, the Ink Red's top housing creates a higher-pitched sound, while the MX Brown's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, producing a duller and rounder sound.

Similarly, the bottom housings of these switches also differ in material and consequently impact the switches' characteristics. The Gateron Ink Red's proprietary INK blend bottom housing has a pointed and high-pitched sound profile, similar to its top housing. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become more noticeable, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Hence, the Ink Red's bottom housing emphasizes a clacky sound, while the MX Brown's nylon bottom housing elicits a fuller sound.

In terms of sound production when releasing a key, the top housing material plays a crucial role. The Gateron Ink Red's INK blend top housing contributes to its satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound. Conversely, the Cherry MX Brown's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a different sound profile when letting go of a key. Therefore, while the sound produced when pressing down on the switches may differ based on their bottom housing, the top housing material has a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches offer distinct auditory experiences due to their unique housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, we find some similarities and differences. Both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning the force required to trigger a keystroke is identical for both switches. In terms of bottom out force, the Gateron Ink Red requires 60 grams of force, while the Cherry MX Brown requires 55 grams. This makes the Gateron Ink Red slightly heavier when it comes to bottoming out.

Considering weight, some individuals may prefer a lighter switch to allow for longer typing periods or extended gaming sessions. In this case, both switches provide a similar experience with their shared actuation force of 45 grams. However, for those seeking a more substantial typing feel, a heavier push may be desired. The Gateron Ink Red, with its bottom out force of 60 grams, offers a slightly heavier push compared to the Cherry MX Brown's 55 grams.

Ultimately, the Gateron Ink Red is the heavier option when it comes to bottoming out, while the actuation force remains the same for both switches. Depending on individual preferences and desired typing experience, either switch can be chosen to cater to different needs.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the key travel 4 mm from the top to the bottom. Therefore, both switches offer a similar tactile experience in terms of travel distance. The travel distance of 4 mm is considered average for mechanical switches and provides a comfortable keystroke for typists and gamers alike.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch offers a moderate and satisfyingly smooth sound profile. It has a neutral tone with a subtle chirp that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch offers a deeper and richer sound profile characterized by a lower frequency range. This results in a bass-heavy and mellow tone during key presses. Both switches provide distinct sound experiences, with the Ink Reds being more neutral and chirpy, while the MX Browns offer a bassier and low-pitched sound. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch delivers an exceptionally smooth typing experience. It is described as silky and polished, offering minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The switch is designed to enhance overall smoothness and reduce friction, resulting in a sleek typing feel. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch is known for its relatively lighter typing experience with a gentle tactility. While the MX Browns do not have specific descriptors regarding smoothness or texture, it can be inferred that they offer a smoother, friction-free typing experience compared to switches with noticeable friction. Overall, the Ink Red provides a smooth and refined typing experience, while the MX Browns offer a more gentle and textured feel.

Taking into account all the available information, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch have distinct subjective qualities. The Ink Red is ideal for those with a lighter typing style, offering smoothness, a crispy and clacky sound profile, and effortless typing. On the other hand, the MX Browns provide a relatively lighter typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback. While they have different sound and feel characteristics, they both cater to different typing preferences. If you prefer a smooth and clacky typing experience, the Ink Reds are a great choice. If you prefer a lighter typing experience with subtle tactility, the MX Browns will suit your needs. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prefer a lighter typing experience and want a switch with a lower actuation force, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch would be a great choice for you. It offers a satisfyingly smooth and effortless typing experience, perfect for those with a lighter typing style. Additionally, the Ink Reds have a crispy and clacky sound profile, which makes for a unique acoustic experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch is the way to go. These switches offer a relatively light typing experience and a more subtle sound profile characterized by bassy and low-pitched tones. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preference for typing feel and sound.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Red Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn more

Cherry MX Brown Tactile

$4.00 per 10

Learn more