Gateron Ink Red vs. Outemu Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Brown both offer unique qualities to consider. The Gateron Ink Red is a linear switch, known for its lower actuation force, making it a great option for those with a lighter typing style. This switch provides a smooth and satisfying typing experience with a crisp and clacky sound profile, making it effortless to type on. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown is a tactile switch, providing feedback to the typist with a slight bump upon actuation. While the Brown switch does not have any distinct characteristics mentioned, it is generally known for its tactile feedback. Both switches have their own advantages, but let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the best switch for your keyboard.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Brown, it is clear that the Ink Red utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housing, while the Brown features a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The INK blend in the Ink Red provides a pointed and high-pitched sound profile, described as clacky, while the polycarbonate top housing in the Brown produces a sharper and crisper sound. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing in the Brown creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the INK blend in the Ink Red, which absorbs more sound and results in a duller and rounder sound.
Aesthetically, the INK blend in the Gateron Ink Red may not offer the same translucent qualities as the polycarbonate top housing in the Outemu Brown, which is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting. The sound profile of the switches is also influenced by the top and bottom housing materials used. The top housing of a switch, such as the polycarbonate in the Brown, will have a greater impact on the sound when pressing and releasing a key, while the bottom housing, like the nylon in the Brown, will affect the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. While the INK blend in the Ink Red and the polycarbonate top housing in the Brown may produce similar high-pitched sound profiles, the nylon bottom housing in the Brown offers a different typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Brown comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience. The INK blend in the Ink Red provides a clacky and thin higher-pitched sound, while the polycarbonate and nylon housing materials in the Brown offer a sharper, crisper sound and a deeper, fuller sound, respectively. Additionally, the aesthetic appeal of the polycarbonate top housing in the Brown may be more attractive for those looking to showcase RGB lighting in their keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics based on their housing materials, providing users with a range of options to suit their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the Ink Red is lighter in both categories. The Ink Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Brown has an actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the actuation and bottom out forces for the Ink Red are lower compared to the Brown, making it the lighter option of the two. However, both switches fall under the medium category for actuation force, with the Brown being slightly heavier due to its higher force requirements. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Gateron Ink Red, while those who prefer a bit more resistance might opt for the Outemu Brown for a more substantial typing feel.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch have an identical travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, users can expect to feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. As a result, the typing experience and responsiveness provided by both switches will be very similar, making them equally suitable options for those who prioritize a consistent feel during use.
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 Brown 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, making it suitable for various typing styles and environments. It also has a unique chirpy sound that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Brown tactile switch is unknown. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Ink Red switch is praised for its silky smooth typing experience, thanks to its polished finish and reduced friction. This makes typing effortless and enjoyable, with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, the mild characteristics of this switch provide a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Unfortunately, there is no available information on the feel of the Outemu Brown tactile switch.
Overall, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch stands out for its smooth and effortless typing experience, along with a unique chirpy sound profile that adds character to your keystrokes. While the sound and feel of the Outemu Brown tactile switch remain unknown, based on the qualities of the Gateron Ink Red, you can expect a similarly satisfying typing experience with potentially different sound characteristics. It's important to consider your personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these two switches to find the one that best suits your needs.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, you should consider your typing style and preferences. If you prefer a lighter typing experience with smooth and effortless keystrokes, the Ink Red with its lower actuation force may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier tactile feedback and a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Outemu Brown switch might suit your typing needs better. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
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