Gateron Ink Red vs. Outemu Green
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Green mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct differences to consider. The Ink Red is a linear switch, ideal for those who prefer a smoother typing experience with a lower actuation force. It offers a satisfyingly smooth feel, a crispy sound profile, and effortless typing, making it perfect for those with a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Outemu Green is a clicky switch that provides tactile feedback and an audible click with each key press. While the Green switch may not have a specific standout feature like the Ink Red, its tactile feedback and audible click can be appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
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 Green switches, one key difference is that the Ink Red features a proprietary INK blend top housing, while the Green utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Red produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky, whereas the polycarbonate top housing of the Green creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the Green switch that the Ink Red may not offer.
Another point of contrast between the two switches lies in their bottom housing materials. The Ink Red boasts a proprietary INK blend bottom housing, which also results in a thin and higher-pitched sound profile with a satisfying clacky sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Green utilizes a nylon bottom housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the INK blend material in the Ink Red.
Overall, while there are distinct differences in the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Green switches, the impact of these materials on the sound profile and feel of the switches is evident. Whether it be the sharper and crisper sound of the polycarbonate top housing in the Green switch or the deeper and fuller sound of the nylon bottom housing in the same switch, each material brings unique qualities to the overall typing experience. While the Ink Red may offer a clackier sound profile with its proprietary INK blend material, the Green switch provides a different typing experience with its polycarbonate and nylon housing materials.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Green clicky switch's heavier actuation force of 65 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Ink Red requires 60 grams while the Green needs 80 grams, making the Green switch heavier in this aspect as well. Those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Gateron Ink Red switch, while individuals looking for a more substantial typing experience may favor the Outemu Green switch. In both cases, users can expect similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces as they align with their preferences for lighter or heavier weight switches.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users will get a similar typing experience in terms of keypress feel and feedback. Whether you choose the Gateron Ink Red or the Outemu Green switch, you can expect the same level of key travel when typing.
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 Green 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch offers a neutral and chirpy sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Green clicky switch does not have a specific sound descriptor provided. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch is known for its silky, mild, and polished characteristics, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with minimal resistance. Conversely, there is no specific feel descriptor available for the Outemu Green clicky switch. Similar to sound, the feel of a switch can be affected by various factors, including lubrication and materials used.
Considering the subjective qualities of the Gateron Ink Red and the lack of specific descriptors for the Outemu Green, it is safe to say that the Ink Red linear switch offers a smoother typing experience with a more versatile sound profile compared to the Green clicky switch. However, without more detailed information on the Outemu Green switch, it is difficult to make a direct comparison. If you prefer a light typing style with a smooth and refined feel, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch may be the preferred choice. Remember to consider all factors, including personal preference and intended use, when selecting a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Ink Red linear switch or the Outemu Green clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your typing preference and style. If you prefer a lighter typing experience with a lower actuation force and smoother feel, the Gateron Ink Reds would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile and clicky typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, the Outemu Greens might be more suited to your liking. Whether you prioritize smoothness and ease of typing or enjoy the satisfying clicky sound of each keypress, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, it is important to consider what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for you when selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your typing needs.
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