Gateron Ink Red vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Red and the Cherry Nixie mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Ink Red stands out for its lower actuation force, making it an ideal choice for those with a lighter typing style. With a smooth and satisfying feel, along with a crispy and clacky sound profile, typing on the Ink Reds is effortless. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie switches are known for their substantial heft and textured typing experience, blending tradition with modern innovation through updated materials and springs. While the Ink Red is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Silky', 'Chirpy', 'Mild', 'Polished', the Nixie is categorized as 'Textured', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched'. 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
63.5g
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
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and the Cherry Nixie, it is apparent that both switches offer unique sound profiles due to their different housing materials. The Ink Red's proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing create a pointed and higher-pitched sound profile, resulting in a clacky typing experience. On the other hand, the Nixie's nylon top and bottom housing elicit a deeper and fuller sound, offering a rounder and duller typing experience. While the Ink Red provides a more sharp and satisfying sound, the Nixie delivers a softer and more absorbing sound.
However, despite their differences in sound profiles, both switches share similarities in how their housing materials affect the overall typing experience. The INK blend top and bottom housing of the Ink Red both contribute to the clacky sound profile, while the nylon top and bottom housing of the Nixie work together to create a fuller and deeper sound. This consistency in sound quality between the housing materials of each switch ensures that users will receive similar typing experiences regardless of which switch they choose.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Red and the Cherry Nixie will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. The Ink Red offers a sharper and more pointed sound, perfect for those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience. In contrast, the Nixie provides a softer and fuller sound, ideal for users seeking a more muffled and round typing experience. Both switches showcase the impact that housing materials can have on sound profiles, giving users the opportunity to choose the switch that best suits their typing preferences.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force compared to the Cherry Nixie linear switch, making it easier to trigger keystrokes at 45 grams versus the Nixie's 63.5 grams. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Ink Red requires a force of 60 grams, while the Nixie takes a heavier 80 grams to fully press down. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Gateron Ink Red for extended typing or gaming sessions, while those looking for a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Cherry Nixie with its heavier forces. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches provide different tactile experiences for users to choose from based on their preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it is evident that both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, users will experience a similar distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both the Gateron Ink Red and the Cherry Nixie offer the same tactile experience. Since both switches have an identical travel distance, users can expect to achieve similar results in terms of key press feel and overall typing experience. Overall, whether using the Gateron Ink Red or the Cherry Nixie, the travel distance of 4 mm provides a consistent and comfortable typing experience for users.
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 Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.19.
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 linear switch is known for its crispy and clacky sound profile, offering a satisfying experience for users who enjoy a bit of a chirpy sound. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is described as producing a thocky, low-pitched sound when pressed. The Nixie switches offer a deep, rich tone that is distinctive and satisfying for those who prefer a bass-heavy sound. Both switches provide unique auditory experiences, with the Ink Red leaning towards a chirpy profile and the Nixie offering a thocky, low-pitched sound. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard build and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch is characterized by its silky, mild, and polished typing experience. These switches are known for their smoothness and refined finish, reducing friction and providing effortless key travel. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is noted for its textured feel, which may appeal to users who prefer a bit of friction when typing. The Nixie switches offer a tactile experience with noticeable texture, adding a different tactile dimension to the typing feel compared to the smoothness of the Ink Red switches. Both switches offer distinct tactile experiences, with the Ink Red emphasizing smoothness and the Nixie providing a textured feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Red and Cherry Nixie linear switches each have unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Ink Red switches offer a crispy, chirpy sound profile and a smooth, polished typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Nixie switches provide a thocky, low-pitched sound and a textured typing feel, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience, ensuring a satisfying and enjoyable time spent typing on your mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you prefer a lighter typing experience with a lower actuation force, smooth keypresses, and a crispy sound profile, then the Gateron Ink Red may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier keypress with a deeper, more substantial thocky sound profile and a textured typing experience, then the Cherry Nixie may be the switch for you. Consider your typing style, sound preferences, and desired level of key weight when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and it's up to you to determine which one aligns best with your preferences.
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