Gateron Ink Red vs. Outemu Cream Pink
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Cream Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Cream Pink mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are linear switches, some distinct differences emerge. The Gateron Ink Red is favored for its lower actuation force, making it ideal for those with a lighter typing style. This switch offers a satisfyingly smooth typing experience, accompanied by a crispy and clacky sound profile, making it effortless to type on. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Pink does not have a specific standout feature but provides a reliable linear typing experience. It is important to consider that the Gateron Ink Red is categorized as neutral, silky, chirpy, mild, and polished, while the Cream Pink does not have specific attributes listed. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide which switch is right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Partial box
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 Gateron Ink Red and Outemu Cream Pink both offer unique housing materials for mechanical switches, with the Ink Red utilizing a proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housings, while the Cream Pink uses nylon for both components. The INK blend in the Gateron switch produces a higher-pitched and clacky sound profile, whereas the nylon material in the Outemu switch creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. While both switches offer different sound profiles due to their housing materials, they both provide a satisfying typing experience with their own distinct characteristics.
In terms of the top housing, the Gateron Ink Red's proprietary INK blend produces a relatively higher-pitched sound compared to the Outemu Cream Pink's nylon top housing, which creates a fuller and rounder sound. The difference in sound profiles can provide users with varying preferences when it comes to typing experience, as the INK blend offers a more clacky sound, while the nylon material provides a deeper tone. However, both switches excel in their own right, catering to different preferences in terms of sound and feel.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the qualities of the housing material largely impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. The Gateron Ink Red's INK blend bottom housing contributes to its high-pitched and clacky sound profile, while the Outemu Cream Pink's nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound. This distinction showcases how the choice of housing material can significantly alter the typing experience, with both switches offering unique qualities that make them stand out in the mechanical keyboard market.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, which has an actuation force of 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ink Red requires 60 grams, while the Cream Pink needs 65 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range for actuation force, but the Cream Pink is slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force, making it medium-heavy. This means that the Ink Red may be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the Cream Pink would be better suited for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance between the two switches, it can be noted that they both provide a consistent and smooth typing experience due to their identical travel distances. Users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and actuation force when using either switch. Therefore, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance.
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 Cream Pink 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
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch is known for its satisfyingly smooth feel, making typing effortless for users with a lighter typing style. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch does not have any distinct qualities mentioned. The Ink Red switch is described as having a crispy and clacky sound profile, with options for a neutral sound suitable for various intents and purposes, or a chirpy sound that sets it apart from other switches. The Cream Pink's sound profile is unknown, indicating that it may not have a unique sound characteristic. When it comes to feel, the Ink Red switch offers a silky and polished typing experience, minimizing resistance and enhancing smoothness. Additionally, it falls into the category of a mild switch, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Conversely, the feel of the Cream Pink switch remains unknown, suggesting it may lack the refined smoothness and reduced friction associated with polished switches. Overall, while the Gateron Ink Red offers a smooth and satisfying typing experience with distinct sound profiles to choose from, the Outemu Cream Pink's qualities remain a mystery, indicating that users may not get the same level of satisfaction and customization options.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, consider your typing style and preferences. If you have a lighter typing style and prefer a smooth and effortless typing experience with a slightly lower actuation force, the Gateron Ink Red would be a suitable choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly higher actuation force and do not mind the lack of distinct sound and feel descriptions, the Outemu Cream Pink may be the better option. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable to you while typing.
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