Gateron Ink Red vs. Outemu Milk Peach
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Milk Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Milk Peach are both linear switches that offer unique features. The Gateron Ink Red is ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing style, as it has a lower actuation force. Known for its smoothness, crispy and clacky sound profile, and effortless typing experience, the Ink Red switch is categorized as neutral, silky, chirpy, mild, polished. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Peach does not have any specific standout characteristics mentioned. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different types of users. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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 Milk Peach, we can see that the Ink Red features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which provides a relatively high-pitched and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Milk Peach utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which offers a sharper and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. While both materials result in a higher-pitched sound profile, the INK blend may offer a slightly less sharp sound compared to the polycarbonate.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Ink Red's proprietary INK blend bottom housing mirrors the sound profile of the top housing with a pointed and high-pitched sound. In contrast, the Milk Peach's nylon bottom housing brings a deeper and fuller sound profile to typing, thanks to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound profile of the Ink Red's bottom housing. Overall, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Milk Peach allow for a varied typing experience. While the INK blend housing of the Ink Red provides a unique clacky sound, the polycarbonate housing of the Milk Peach offers a crisper and sharper sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Milk Peach creates a deeper and fuller sound profile in comparison to the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Red. Whether you prefer a high-pitched, clacky sound or a softer, fuller sound, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch, we see that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Ink Red has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Milk Peach's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Ink Red is heavier in terms of bottom out force compared to the Milk Peach. The actuation force of both switches being the same means that users can expect a similar level of responsiveness when typing or gaming. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Milk Peach for its unknown bottom out force, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Ink Red with its higher bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch, it is clear that the Ink Red has a longer travel distance of 4 mm while the Milk Peach has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Ink Red falls on the more traditional side of travel distances, providing a deeper press, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. On the other hand, the Milk Peach offers a shallower press, making it ideal for gamers or individuals looking for faster response times. Both switches offer different experiences when it comes to key presses, with the Ink Red providing a longer travel distance for a more traditional typing feel, while the Milk Peach offers a shorter travel distance for quick and responsive typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Milk Peach 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 with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for various typing styles and environments. The switch also has a unique chirpy quality, giving it a slightly squeaky sound that sets it apart from others. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch does not have a defined sound profile available, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Ink Red is known for its silky smooth typing experience, thanks to its polished finish and reduced friction. This makes typing on the switch effortless and enjoyable, with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, the mild characteristics of the switch offer a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Conversely, the Outemu Milk Peach switch does not have specific feel descriptors available, making it challenging to comment on its tactile qualities.
Overall, if you are looking for a linear switch with a smooth and effortless typing experience, the Gateron Ink Red is an excellent choice. It offers a unique chirpy sound profile along with a polished and refined feel, making it a popular option among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Milk Peach switch are not as clearly defined, it may still provide a satisfactory typing experience, especially if paired with the right keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches may offer similar results in terms of sound and feel, depending on individual preferences and setup configurations.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prefer a lighter typing experience with a crispy sound profile and smooth feel, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. However, if you are looking for a switch with no specific bottom out force, sound profile, or feel preferences, the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch may also be considered. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing style and preferences. Choose the switch that best suits your needs and enjoy your mechanical keyboard experience.
Mentioned in this article
