Gateron Ink Red vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Blue. 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 a reputation for being smooth and providing a crispy, clacky sound profile, the Ink Reds offer an effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue is a clicky switch that provides tactile feedback and audible clicks with each keystroke. While the Ink Red is categorized as neutral, silky, chirpy, mild, and polished, the Blue switch does not have specific categories associated with it. Each switch offers unique characteristics that may appeal to different users based on their preferences. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Blue switches offer different sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Ink Red features a proprietary INK blend top housing that creates a thin, high-pitched, and clacky sound. In contrast, the Blue switch's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. While both materials provide distinct sound characteristics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Blue switch is more likely to enhance RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Blue switch offers a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Ink Red's bottom housing.
However, despite the differences in housing materials, both the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Blue switches strive to provide a satisfying typing experience. The proprietary INK blend top housing of the Ink Red creates a pointed and high-pitched sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Blue switch offers a clear and resonant sound profile. In terms of tactile feedback, the nylon bottom housing of the Blue switch absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the Ink Red's bottom housing. Overall, both switches prioritize sound quality and tactile feedback to enhance the typing experience for users.
When considering the impact of housing materials on switch performance, it is essential to recognize how the top and bottom housings contribute to the overall sound and feel of a switch. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. While the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Blue switches offer contrasting housing materials for both the top and bottom, the overall goal remains the same: to provide a satisfying and high-quality typing experience for users, whether they prefer a clacky, high-pitched sound or a crisper, sharper sound profile.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Blue clicky switch with a higher actuation force of 50 grams. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Red is 60 grams, while the Outemu Blue bottom out force is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Gateron Ink Red would be the better option, allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions without as much strain. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience and don't mind a heavier push feel, the Outemu Blue may be a better choice. In terms of overall weight and force required, the Gateron Ink Red offers a more balanced medium force, while the Outemu Blue provides a potentially heavier actuation force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the key travels from the top to the bottom. Users can expect consistent feedback and keypress feel from both switches due to their equal travel distance. This makes them suitable choices for individuals looking for a consistent typing experience across different keyboard switches. In terms of travel distance, there is no significant difference between the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky 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 Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, suitable for most users and purposes. It also features a unique chirpy element, adding a subtle squeak that sets it apart. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch does not have a specific sound description available, so it's important to consider other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used to fully evaluate its sound.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Red switch provides a silky and polished typing experience, offering exceptionally smooth keypresses with reduced friction and a refined finish. Its mild characteristics make it approachable and comfortable for most users, striking a balance between various typing preferences. While there is no specific feel description available for the Outemu Blue switch, it is worth considering that clicky switches typically provide tactile feedback and auditory cues with each keypress.
Overall, both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Ink Red linear switch excels in offering a smooth and polished typing experience with a moderate sound profile, while the Outemu Blue clicky switch is likely to provide tactile feedback and a louder auditory experience. Depending on individual preferences for typing feel and sound, users can choose between these two switches to achieve their desired mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, consider your typing style and environment. If you prefer a lighter typing experience with smooth actuation and a moderate sound profile, the Ink Red may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more pronounced typing experience with a clicky sound and tactile feedback, the Outemu Blue switch could be a better fit. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable to you as you type. Choose wisely and enjoy the satisfying feel of your mechanical keyboard switch.
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