Gateron Ink Red vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Ink Red and the Cherry MX Silent Red mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Ink Red is distinguished by its lower actuation force, making it ideal for individuals with a lighter typing style. Known for its smooth and satisfying feel, the Ink Reds produce a crispy and clacky sound profile while being effortless to type on. In contrast, the Cherry MX Silent Red maintains a slightly heftier feel compared to the MX Red but operates silently, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments. With a significantly quieter sound profile, the MX Silent Red provides a satisfying typing experience with a muted and thocky feel. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and Cherry MX Silent Red switches differ in terms of sound profile and feel. The proprietary INK blend housing of the Gateron Ink Red is known for its pointed and higher-pitched sound profile, resulting in a satisfyingly clacky typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon housing of the Cherry MX Silent Red produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a duller and rounder typing sound. This contrast in sound profiles can significantly impact the overall typing experience for users of these switches.
In terms of bottom housing, the Gateron Ink Red's proprietary INK blend provides a unique sound profile that is characterized by a thin and higher-pitched tone. In comparison, the Cherry MX Silent Red's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, resulting in a rounder and less sharp typing experience. The bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, so the material used can greatly influence the overall typing experience for users.
While the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Ink Red and Cherry MX Silent Red switches may differ in material and sound profile, both switches aim to provide a smooth and satisfying typing experience. The Gateron Ink Red's INK blend top housing offers a pointed and high-pitched sound profile, whereas the Cherry MX Silent Red's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. Despite these differences, both switches are designed to minimize sound and provide a pleasant typing experience for users. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile and feel.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, it is evident that they both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, resulting in a light and responsive typing experience. However, where they differ is in their bottom out force. The Gateron Ink Red has a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a slightly heavier typing feel compared to the Cherry MX Silent Red, which has an unknown bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Cherry MX Silent Red, while those who prefer a more substantial push feel may lean towards the Gateron Ink Red. Regardless, both switches offer a smooth and quiet typing experience for users.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of typical travel distances for mechanical keyboard switches. While the difference between the two distances may seem minimal, it can have an impact on the feel and responsiveness of the keys. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the Cherry MX Silent Red a popular choice in gaming keyboards. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Gateron Ink Red with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Red switch has a chirpy and slightly clacky sound profile, adding a unique acoustic signature to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch offers a muted and thocky sound, significantly reducing noise levels for a quieter environment. Both switches provide different auditory experiences, with the Ink Red being more distinct and the MX Silent Red focusing on minimizing sound.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Red switch provides a silky and polished typing experience, enhancing smoothness and reducing resistance when typing. In contrast, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch is described as having a textured feel, which may provide a different tactile feedback compared to the smoother feel of the Ink Red. While the Ink Red offers a refined and gentle typing experience, the MX Silent Red may appeal to those who prefer a bit of friction in their switches.
Overall, the Gateron Ink Red and Cherry MX Silent Red switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Red provides a more crisp and clacky sound with a silky smooth typing feel, ideal for those looking for a tactile and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red offers a quieter sound profile and a textured feel, catering to individuals in noise-sensitive environments who prefer a bit of friction in their keystrokes. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel, but rest assured that both switches deliver a high-quality typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a lighter typing style and enjoy the crisp and clacky sound profile, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are in a noise-sensitive environment and prioritize a quieter typing experience, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision between the two switches should be based on your personal preferences regarding typing feel, sound profile, and environment considerations. Make sure to consider these factors carefully before making your choice to ensure the best typing experience for your needs.
Mentioned in this article
