Gateron Ink Red vs. Outemu Lotus
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Lotus mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that they both fall into the linear switch category. The Ink Red is renowned for its lower actuation force, making it ideal for users with a lighter typing style. It offers a smooth and satisfying typing experience with a crisp and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Lotus doesn't have any standout features but is still a linear switch. While the Ink Red is categorized as neutral, silky, chirpy, mild, and polished, the Lotus lacks specific characteristics associated with it. If you prefer a lighter typing experience with a satisfying sound profile, the Ink Red may be the way to go. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
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
The Gateron Ink Red's proprietary INK blend top housing and bottom housing both contribute to a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, described as clacky. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus features a nylon top housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic material. However, the nylon bottom housing of the Lotus also contributes to this deeper sound profile, absorbing more sound than harder plastics. Overall, the Outemu Lotus offers a more rounded and duller sound compared to the sharper sound of the Gateron Ink Red.
In terms of material composition, the Gateron Ink Red utilizes its proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housing, providing a consistent sound profile characterized by a thin and higher-pitched tone. In contrast, the Outemu Lotus utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is absorbed by the soft plastic material. While the Ink Red maintains a sharper and more clacky sound, the Lotus offers a rounder and duller sound due to the properties of nylon.
While the Gateron Ink Red and Outemu Lotus both utilize different housing materials for their switches, the overall sound profiles they produce are notably distinct. The Ink Red's INK blend creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound that is often described as clacky, whereas the Lotus's nylon material produces a deeper and fuller sound with a more rounded tone. Despite their differences, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for sound and feel.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch have noticeable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Ink Red has a medium actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, whereas the Lotus has a light actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. The Ink Red provides a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Lotus, making it more suitable for those who prefer a bit more resistance when typing. On the other hand, the Lotus offers a lighter and smoother typing feel, which is ideal for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience. Both switches provide a satisfying keystroke, but the Ink Red is on the heavier side while the Lotus is on the lighter side. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This makes the Lotus switch shorter in travel distance compared to the Ink Red switch. The difference may seem minimal, but it can impact the typing experience significantly. Gamers who value rapid response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Lotus switch, allowing for quick key presses. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the longer travel distance of the Ink Red switch. Ultimately, both switches offer unique benefits depending on personal preferences, but the difference in travel distance can make a noticeable impact on typing or gaming performance.
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 Lotus 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 profile, suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus linear switch does not have a specified sound profile provided. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard layout and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Red switch is known for its silky, mild, and polished characteristics, providing a smooth typing experience with reduced friction and effortless key travel. Unfortunately, there is no description provided for the Outemu Lotus switch regarding its tactile feel.
Overall, based on the available information, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch seems to offer a more detailed description of its sound and feel qualities compared to the Outemu Lotus switch. If you are looking for a switch with a light actuation force and smooth typing experience, the Gateron Ink Red might be the better option based on the provided information. Remember to consider other factors such as personal preference and typing style when choosing the best switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Red and Outemu Lotus linear switches, consider your preference for bottom out force and typing style. If you prefer a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and a smooth, crispy typing experience, then the Gateron Ink Red may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and a gentle typing feel, then the Outemu Lotus could be the better option. Additionally, take into account the sound profile and feel of each switch, as these factors can greatly impact your overall typing experience. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences and needs.
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