Gateron Ink Red vs. Outemu Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Red linear switch with the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, some key differences become apparent. The Ink Red is well-loved for its smoothness, lower actuation force, and crisp sound profile, making it ideal for those with a lighter typing style. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow does not come with any specific standout features. While the Ink Red is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Silky', 'Chirpy', 'Mild', and 'Polished', the Cream Yellow lacks any defined characteristics. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches present some key differences. The Ink Red features a proprietary INK blend top housing that provides a pointed and high-pitched sound profile, resulting in a satisfying and clacky typing experience. In contrast, the Cream Yellow utilizes a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition which absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile. This variation in sound profiles can significantly impact the overall typing experience for users.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Gateron Ink Red and Outemu Cream Yellow switches also showcase contrasting characteristics. The Ink Red boasts a proprietary INK blend bottom housing that contributes to the switch's high-pitched and clacky sound profile, enhancing the overall typing feedback. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow features a nylon bottom housing that adds to the switch's deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a more rounded and dull sound compared to the Ink Red. These differences in bottom housing materials can influence the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches when typing.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and Outemu Cream Yellow may vary, ultimately, they both play a crucial role in shaping the overall sound profile and typing experience of the switches. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience, albeit with distinct sound profiles influenced by their housing materials. Users can choose between the sharper and clacky sound of the Ink Red or the deeper and fuller sound of the Cream Yellow based on their personal preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have the same actuation force and bottom-out force of 45 grams and 60 grams, respectively. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke and the force felt when pressing the key all the way down. Both switches fall into the medium weight category, offering a balance between a light touch for extended typing sessions and a substantial push feel for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of weight and typing feel.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, the Ink Red has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Cream Yellow has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Ink Red is more traditional, providing a deeper key press feeling, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the 3.3 mm travel distance of the Cream Yellow offers a quicker response time, making it popular among gamers who prioritize speed. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference, with the longer travel distance of the Ink Red offering a more substantial feel and the shorter travel distance of the Cream Yellow providing a more rapid response.
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 Yellow 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 crispy and clacky sound profile, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a bit of auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch's sound profile is unknown, but remember that the sound of a switch also depends on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Ink Red is praised for its silky smooth typing experience, minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys, and a polished finish that enhances overall smoothness. The Cream Yellow's feel is not described, but it is safe to assume that it may offer a gentle and approachable typing experience, as tactile switches generally provide more tactile feedback compared to linear switches.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch excels in providing a satisfyingly smooth and crisp typing experience with a unique chirpy sound. The Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch may offer a gentler typing experience with an unknown sound profile, but both switches may cater to individuals with different preferences in sound and feel. Ultimately, it is important to consider your personal typing style and preferences when choosing between these two switches to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a linear switch with a lighter actuation force and a smooth typing experience, the Gateron Ink Red would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a tactile switch with a medium actuation force and a tactile bump for feedback, the Outemu Cream Yellow would be a great option. Consider your typing style, sound preference, and typing feel when deciding between these two switches. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for you.
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