Gateron Ink Red vs. Haimu Orange Sea
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the Haimu Orange Sea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, choosing the right switch can significantly enhance your typing experience, and two notable linear options to consider are the Gateron Ink Red and the Haimu Orange Sea. The Gateron Ink Red switches are favored for their lower actuation force, making them an excellent choice for users with a lighter typing style; they provide a satisfyingly smooth feel paired with a crispy, clacky sound profile that many find enjoyable. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea switches offer an impeccably smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature, appealing to those who prefer a more subdued auditory feedback. Both switches have their unique characteristics, with the Ink Red known for its cheerful chirpiness and the Orange Sea for its invigorating touch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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 extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Red and Haimu Orange Sea switches both incorporate distinct materials in their housing that significantly influence their sound profiles and overall typing experience. The top housing of the Ink Red is made from Gateron's proprietary INK blend, which contributes to its pointed and high-pitched sound. This sound profile is generally characterized as clacky, providing a satisfying auditory feedback during typing. In contrast, the Orange Sea utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, known for delivering a sharper and crisper sound. The unique properties of polycarbonate, particularly its stiffness and translucence, allow it to resonate sound effectively, making it a popular choice for those who appreciate RGB lighting aesthetics. While both switches aim for a higher-pitched sound, the materials they employ produce different nuances in auditory feedback.
Examining the bottom housings of these two switches reveals a stark contrast. The Ink Red uses the same proprietary INK blend as its bottom housing, maintaining the pointed sound profile that aims for a consistent auditory experience. This results in a notable emphasis on brightness and a clackiness that can resonate throughout the typing experience. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea features a nylon bottom housing, which is celebrated for its ability to absorb sound and create a deeper, fuller sound profile. This difference means that users will experience a rounder and less harsh auditory feedback when typing on the Orange Sea, as the softer nature of nylon tends to dampen the sound more effectively than harder materials.
When considering the interaction between the materials of the top and bottom housings, the varying characteristics of each switch allow for a diverse typing experience. The Ink Red's combination of proprietary INK blend in both the top and bottom contributes to a unified sound signature, ensuring that the high-pitched qualities are consistent throughout the keypress. Conversely, the Orange Sea's contrasting materials result in a blend of acoustic properties; while the polycarbonate top offers crispness and clarity when the key is released, the nylon bottom softens and deepens the auditory impact upon bottoming out. This separation of sounds allows typists to enjoy a layered experience, where the sound profile is split between high-pitched clarity and fuller depth. Ultimately, while both switches aim for pleasant auditory experiences, the materials utilized create distinctly different soundscapes.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Red and Haimu Orange Sea linear switches, there are notable differences in both the actuation and bottom out forces. The Gateron Ink Red has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming marathons. This means that users who find lighter switches more comfortable will likely favor the Orange Sea, while those who appreciate a stronger push will lean towards the Ink Red. Ultimately, if you're looking for a switch that offers a greater tactile heft, the Ink Red is the heavier option, while the Orange Sea stands out as the lighter switch.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch measures 3.6 mm. This makes the Ink Red the longer option, providing a more substantial travel distance compared to the shorter, more responsive Orange Sea switch. Those who favor a more profound keypress might appreciate the Ink Red's length, as it offers a more traditional feel, encouraging a deliberate typing experience. In contrast, gamers and users seeking rapid response times may prefer the Orange Sea, as its shorter travel distance facilitates quicker actuation. Ultimately, the choice between them will depend on individual preferences regarding depth and responsiveness in typing or gaming scenarios.
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 Haimu Orange Sea comes in at $2.79 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 linear switch presents a crispy and clacky profile, which adds an engaging auditory component to typing experiences. Users may appreciate the switch's neutral nature, making it suitable for various environments, whether it’s casual or professional. The Ink Reds can also exhibit a chirpy quality, lending a unique acoustic signature to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Haimu Orange Sea switch is characterized by a neutral sound signature without the additional chirpiness, which may appeal to those seeking a quieter typewriting environment. However, both switches' sound characteristics can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps, meaning users might achieve similar auditory results depending on their setup.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Red shines with a silky smoothness and mild feedback that makes it a delight for fast typists or those who favor a softer touch. The polished nature of these switches enhances their performance, minimizing friction and ensuring a seamless keypress experience. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea switches are invigorating and provide a more pronounced feedback. While these switches are not overwhelmingly tactile, they also aim to deliver an immersive typing sensation, sitting between the smooth and tactile experiences. The distinct feedback from the Orange Sea could be more engaging for users who enjoy a snappier feel while typing, contrasting the smooth and gentle experience provided by the Ink Red.
In conclusion, both switches offer unique qualities tailored to different typing preferences. The Ink Red delivers a delightful sound and an exceptionally smooth feel, making it ideal for light typers and those who enjoy a quieter yet engaging experience. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea is poised to satisfy users who prefer a more invigorating typing experience with pronounced feedback and a neutral sound. Depending on the desired typing experience, either switch can be a fitting choice, as they cater to different tastes and styles while still offering beneficial qualities that can be complemented by the right keyboard and keycap choices.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Red and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switches, consider your typing style and preferences. If you favor a smooth and effortless experience with a bit of auditory character, the Ink Red is an excellent choice. Its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams suits those who appreciate a balance of feedback without the strain of a heavier switch. Moreover, its clacky sound and silky feel can enhance your typing pleasure, especially if you often type for long periods or engage in gaming sessions where speed is essential. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and an invigorating typing experience, the Orange Sea might be the better option. With its accentuated tactile feedback and smoothness, this switch is ideal for those who enjoy a snappier response without the noise of a clacky switch. Therefore, your choice should align with whether you prioritize an overall smooth experience with an engaging sound or a light switch with a refreshing feel. Each switch offers unique advantages that cater to different types of users, so align your choice with your specific needs and preferences for the best satisfaction.
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