Gateron Ink Red vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Dustproof 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 Dustproof Blue. The Gateron Ink Red is a linear switch that is ideal for individuals with a lighter typing style, thanks to its lower actuation force. Known for its smooth and satisfying typing experience, the Ink Red also offers a crisp and clacky sound profile that many users enjoy. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof 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', 'polished', the Dustproof Blue does not have any specific categorization. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and advantages, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and Outemu Dustproof Blue, one noticeable difference lies in their top housing materials. The Ink Red features a proprietary INK blend while the Dustproof Blue utilizes polycarbonate. The INK blend of the Ink Red produces a pointed and high-pitched sound profile, described as clacky yet not overly sharp. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Blue creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate in the Dustproof Blue allows for more clarity and resonance, especially when paired with RGB lighting.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials of the Ink Red and Dustproof Blue, a distinction can be made between the INK blend and nylon used, respectively. The INK blend of the Ink Red provides a thin, higher-pitched sound profile similar to its top housing characteristics. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Blue elicits a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound profile when typing on switches using nylon, offering a different typing experience compared to the INK blend bottom housing.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Ink Red and Outemu Dustproof Blue ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience. While both switches offer unique characteristics based on their housing materials, such as the INK blend and polycarbonate in the top housing, or nylon in the bottom housing, users can expect different sound profiles and feels when using these switches. Whether it's the clacky and high-pitched sound of the Ink Red or the sharper and crisper sound of the Dustproof Blue, each switch provides a distinct typing experience that may cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, it is clear that the Dustproof Blue is the heavier option. The Ink Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is on the lighter side of the spectrum. In contrast, the Dustproof Blue requires 50 grams of force to actuate and 65 grams to bottom out, making it slightly heavier than the Ink Red. However, both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, providing a good balance between lightness and heaviness. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference for typing feel and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equally responsive to keystrokes. The travel distance refers to the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom, providing tactile feedback to the user when pressing down on a key. Both switches offer a consistent typing experience with the same travel distance, ensuring efficient and comfortable typing. Whether opting for the Gateron Ink Red or the Outemu Dustproof Blue, users can expect similar results in terms of key 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 Dustproof 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, making it suitable for various typing styles and environments. Additionally, it has a chirpy characteristic that adds a unique acoustic signature to its sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch lacks a specific sound description, leaving its sound qualities unknown. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's build and keycaps.
When considering the feel of the switches, the Gateron Ink Red shines with its silky and polished typing experience. These switches provide an exceptionally smooth and refined feel, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. With a mild characteristic, the Ink Red offers a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. In contrast, the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch remains unspecified, leaving its tactile qualities unknown.
Overall, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch stands out for its smooth and satisfying typing experience with a crispy and clacky sound profile. Its lower actuation force and polished finish make it a preferred choice for those with a lighter typing style. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch lacks specific descriptions of its sound and feel qualities, making it difficult to compare directly to the Ink Red. Ultimately, if you are looking for a switch with similar characteristics to the Gateron Ink Red, you may find comparable results based on factors such as actuation force and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Ink Red linear switch or the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a smooth typing experience with a clacky sound profile, the Ink Red may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force and a clicky sound profile, the Dustproof Blue could be a better option. Consider how you like your switches to feel and sound when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so make sure to choose the one that best suits your typing needs.
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