Gateron Ink Red vs. Outemu Dustproof Red

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Dustproof Red are two linear options that cater to different preferences and needs. The Ink Red is celebrated for its lighter actuation force, making it an excellent choice for those with a more delicate touch when typing. Users appreciate its silky smoothness and pronounced chirpy sound, which adds a delightful auditory element to the typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Red lacks specific standout features but can be appealing for users seeking a sturdy, no-frills switch that offers reliable performance in environments where dust might be a concern. Both switches serve their purposes well, with the Ink Red offering a more refined and engaging experience, while the Dustproof Red focuses on durability and practical usability. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Red Linear

Outemu Dustproof Red Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Dustproof Red switches, notable differences can be observed in their top housing compositions. The Ink Red utilizes a proprietary INK blend, which is engineered to create a pointed, high-pitched sound profile that is described as satisfying and clacky. This unique blend allows the switch to produce a sharp and vibrant acoustic response, appealing to users who prefer a more defined auditory feedback during key presses. In contrast, the Dustproof Red employs polycarbonate for its top housing, shaping a crisp and clearer sound profile. Polycarbonate's inherent stiffness contributes to its sharpness and resonant qualities, which can enhance the overall clarity and brightness of the sound, particularly important for setups that feature RGB lighting due to its translucency.

The differences extend to the bottom housing as well, where the Gateron Ink Red features the same proprietary INK blend found in the top housing, promoting a cohesive sound experience characterized by high-pitched and clacky tones. The Dustproof Red, on the other hand, opts for a nylon bottom housing, which is traditionally known for providing a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This choice absorbs more sound and essentially dampens the overall acoustic feedback, resulting in a more muted bottom-out sound. Consequently, the blends of both switches introduce distinct characteristics: the Ink Red aims for a lively auditory experience across both housings, while the Dustproof Red offers a rounded sound, especially noticeable during bottoming out.

Understanding that the top and bottom housing materials can influence the overall sound experience is crucial. For users seeking a cohesive sound, both switches can deliver satisfying results, albeit in different ways. The Gateron Ink Red’s uniform material in both housings ensures that the heightened, clacky sound remains consistent throughout the actuation and release process. Conversely, the Outemu Dustproof Red blends the crispness of its polycarbonate top with the dampened bottom housing of nylon, creating a balance between high-pitched auditory feedback and a fuller, softer sound upon bottoming out. Thus, while the distinct materials yield varied sound profiles, each switch presents opportunities for an enjoyable typing experience, catering to different user preferences.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, both have identical specifications regarding actuation and bottom out forces. Each switch features an actuation force of 45 grams, which indicates that they require the same amount of force to register a keystroke, making them suitable for users who prefer lighter switches that facilitate prolonged typing sessions and comfort during extended gaming. Additionally, both switches have a bottom out force of 60 grams, meaning they provide a similar tactile resistance when bottoming out. As a result, users will experience comparable feedback and typing sensations across both switch types, offering a balanced typing experience that appeals to a wide range of preferences. Since their specifications are equal, users can expect similar results in terms of performance and feel, making either switch an equally viable option.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, users will experience an equal distance from the top to the bottom, resulting in similar tactile feedback. With both switches exhibiting identical travel distances, users can expect a comparable feel and responsiveness when typing or gaming, making either choice a viable option for those seeking consistent linear switch performance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profiles of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, the Ink Red stands out significantly. The Ink Red provides a unique sound experience characterized by its neutral and chirpy qualities. The neutral aspect offers a balanced audio profile that caters to both beginners and more seasoned typists, making it versatile for various settings, from home to office. The chirpy sound adds a distinct character, giving feedback that many find enjoyable. In contrast, the sound profile of the Dustproof Red is unknown, leaving it ambiguous how it would compare; therefore, users may not experience the same auditory feedback that the Ink Red provides.

In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Red also has notable advantages. It is recognized for its silky, mild, and polished sensations, all contributing to an exceptionally smooth typing experience. The silky quality minimizes resistance, allowing for effortless key presses, while the mild characteristic provides a gentle touch suitable for most users. The polished nature further enhances this experience, ensuring smooth key travel and reducing friction. As for the Outemu Dustproof Red, no specific information is available regarding its feel, making it challenging to draw direct comparisons. Consequently, users may find that the Ink Red offers a refined tactile experience that the Dustproof Red may or may not provide.

In summary, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch excels in both sound and feel, offering a pleasant auditory signature and an exceptionally smooth typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Red lacks specific descriptive qualities in both categories. Although the Dustproof Red may still perform adequately, especially for users who prioritize durability or dust resistance over the nuanced feedback provided by the Ink Red, those seeking a well-rounded and satisfying mechanical typing experience would likely find the Ink Red to be the superior choice.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switches ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a typing experience that's not just smooth but also features a pleasantly crisp sound, the Ink Red is an ideal choice for you. Its characteristics, such as the silky feel and chirpy sound profile, cater to those preferring a lighter touch and enhanced responsiveness, making it perfect for both casual typing and extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, if you're looking for basic functionality without any frills, the Dustproof Red might be appealing. While it matches the Ink Red in force at 60 grams, it lacks the distinctive sound and feel attributes that could elevate your typing experience. Ultimately, if you desire a more refined keyboard interaction and unique auditory feedback, go for the Gateron Ink Red; however, if simplicity and durability suit your needs better, then the Outemu Dustproof Red may be the way to go.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Red Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Dustproof Red Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more