Gateron Ink Red vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Gold mechanical keyboard switches, one can immediately see the stark differences in their design and feel. The Gateron Ink Red is a linear switch known for its lower actuation force, making it ideal for those with a lighter typing style. This switch offers a smooth and satisfying typing experience, with a crispy and clacky sound profile that is effortless to type on. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold is a clicky switch that provides tactile feedback and an audible click with each key press. While the Gateron Ink Red is characterized as neutral, silky, chirpy, mild, and polished, the Outemu Gold does not have any specific categorizations. Each switch offers unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right 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
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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 Gold, it is clear that the INK blend top housing of the Ink Red creates a slightly higher-pitched and clacky sound profile compared to the polycarbonate top housing of the Gold, which produces a sharper and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate in the Gold's housing results in a more clear and resonant sound profile, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Ink Red's INK blend bottom housing is similar to the Gold's nylon bottom housing in that they both provide a fuller and deeper sound profile. The softer nylon material of the Gold absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the INK blend bottom housing.
In terms of functionality, the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Gold play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switches. The pointy and high-pitched sound profile of the INK blend top housing in the Ink Red is contrasted by the stiffer and crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing of the Gold. Similarly, the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Red offers a satisfying clacky sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the Gold results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. These differences in housing materials impact the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
Although the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Gold differ in terms of sound profiles and materials used, they ultimately share the same goal of enhancing the overall typing experience. While the INK blend top housing of the Ink Red may produce a slightly higher-pitched and clacky sound, and the Gold's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper sound profile, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience. Similarly, the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Red and the nylon bottom housing of the Gold may offer different sound profiles, but they both contribute to a fuller and more resonant typing sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch both have the same actuation force of 45 grams and bottom out force of 60 grams, making them equal in terms of weight. The actuation force is the force needed to trigger a keystroke, while bottom out force measures the pressure required to press the key all the way down. Both switches provide a medium resistance level, which is suitable for users who prefer a balance between light and heavy typing experiences. Those who like a lighter typing feel may find these switches ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming, while users who prefer a more substantial push feel may find the force of these switches to be adequate for a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, whether one chooses the Gateron Ink Red or the Outemu Gold switch will depend on their personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This similarity in travel distance can provide a consistent typing experience across different keyboards using these switches. Ultimately, whether you prefer the linear feel of the Gateron Ink Red switch or the clicky feedback of the Outemu Gold switch, the travel distance remains constant for both options.
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 Gold 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 and chirpy sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of typing environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold clicky switch's sound profile is unknown, so it's difficult to compare the two in this aspect. However, keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Red is known for its silky, mild, and polished typing experience, providing a smooth and refined feel with minimized resistance. This makes typing on the Ink Red switches comfortable and easy on the fingers. Unfortunately, there is no information available on the typing feel of the Outemu Gold clicky switch, so it's challenging to make a direct comparison in this regard.
Overall, if you are looking for a linear switch with a lower actuation force and a satisfyingly smooth feel, the Gateron Ink Red would be a solid choice. In terms of sound, the Ink Red offers a neutral and chirpy profile which may appeal to a wide range of users. However, if you prefer a clicky switch and enjoy the unique acoustic signature it brings, the Outemu Gold clicky switch could be worth exploring, although details on its sound and feel are unknown. Remember that personal preference plays a significant role in choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, so trying out different options may be necessary to find the perfect fit for your typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when making a decision between the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, consider your typing style and preferences. If you have a lighter typing style and prefer a smooth and crispy feel with a moderate sound profile, the Gateron Ink Red would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky switch with a bit of a unique acoustic signature, the Outemu Gold might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you prefer and what qualities are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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