Gateron Ink Red vs. Outemu Dustproof Purple
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Dustproof Purple. The Gateron Ink Red is a linear switch known for its lower actuation force, making it ideal for those who have a lighter typing style. This switch offers a smooth and satisfying typing experience, with a crispy and clacky sound profile that is enjoyable for many users. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple is a clicky switch that provides a tactile and audible click with each keystroke. While the Ink Red is categorized as neutral, silky, chirpy, mild, polished, the Dustproof Purple does not have any specific categorization. When deciding between these two switches, consider your typing preferences and whether you prefer a linear or clicky feel. 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
55g
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
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 Dustproof Purple, the main difference lies in their top housings. The Ink Red features a proprietary INK blend, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile without being overly sharp. On the other hand, the Dustproof Purple utilizes polycarbonate, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials offer a satisfying sound experience, the INK blend leans towards a thinner and clacky sound, while the polycarbonate delivers a more clear and resonant tone, especially when paired with RGB lighting for a visually appealing effect.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Ink Red maintains its proprietary INK blend material, which contributes to the same high-pitched and clacky sound profile as its top housing. In contrast, the Dustproof Purple employs a nylon bottom housing, known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This difference in material affects the overall sound produced by the switches, with the Ink Red offering a consistent sound experience throughout both top and bottom housing, while the Dustproof Purple delivers a combination of sharper tones from the polycarbonate top and richer tones from the nylon bottom.
In terms of functionality, the choice between the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Dustproof Purple impacts the overall sound and feel of the switches. With the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key and the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, the combination of materials in each switch contributes to a unique typing experience. While the Ink Red maintains a consistent tone with its INK blend throughout, the Dustproof Purple offers a contrasting blend of polycarbonate and nylon for a varied sound profile. Ultimately, both switches provide satisfying sound experiences, but the choice between thinner and clacky or sharper and fuller tones depends on individual preference.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, it is evident that the Ink Red is lighter in both aspects. With an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, the Ink Red provides a smoother and easier typing experience compared to the Dustproof Purple. The Dustproof Purple, on the other hand, has a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it slightly heavier and more substantial when typing. While both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, the Ink Red offers a lighter touch for those who prefer a gentler typing experience, while the Dustproof Purple caters to individuals who enjoy a more pronounced push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users can expect a similar tactile experience in terms of travel distance. Whether you opt for the Ink Red or the Dustproof Purple, you can be assured of a consistent feel when typing or gaming.
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 Purple 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, making it suitable for a wide range of users and purposes, with a slight chirpy character that sets it apart. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch does not have any specific sound descriptors provided. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch is known for its silky, mild, and polished attributes, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This makes it appealing to a broad range of users, offering a comfortable and refined typing feel. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available regarding the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch offers a satisfyingly smooth typing experience with a crispy and clacky sound profile, making it a great choice for those who prefer a lighter typing style. While the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch may also provide a unique typing experience, its specific sound and feel qualities remain unknown. If you are looking for a similar typing experience to the Gateron Ink Red, you may want to consider switches with a neutral sound profile and a smooth, polished feel. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preference and typing style.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, it all boils down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a smooth typing experience with a satisfying sound profile, the Gateron Ink Red would be the way to go. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky and tactile typing experience with a slightly heavier actuation force, the Outemu Dustproof Purple may be more suitable for you. Consider your typing habits and environment in making your decision, as both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice is yours to make based on what feels best for you.
Mentioned in this article
