Gateron Ink Red vs. Outemu Ocean
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Ocean. The Gateron Ink Red is a linear switch known for its lower actuation force, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing style. This switch boasts a smooth feel, a satisfyingly crispy sound profile, and an effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean is a tactile switch that lacks specific identification beyond being categorized as a generic tactile switch. Tactile switches like the Outemu Ocean provide a tactile bump during actuation, offering feedback to the typist. In general, if you prefer a smooth and light typing experience, the Gateron 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 right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Ocean differ in terms of their housing materials. The Ink Red features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a pointed, high-pitched, and clacky sound profile. In contrast, the Ocean uses a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate makes the Ocean more visually appealing for those who enjoy RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Ink Red's bottom housing maintains a similar sound profile to its top housing, offering a consistently thin and clacky sound experience. In comparison, the Ocean's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound.
Although the top housings of the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Ocean differ in material, both contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Red produces a distinct clacky sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Ocean creates a sharper and crisper sound. Aesthetically, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes the Ocean a visually appealing choice, especially for users who want to showcase RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the Ocean contributes to a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer material that absorbs more sound. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
When it comes to deciding between the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Ocean based on housing materials, it ultimately boils down to personal preference. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Red delivers a satisfying thin and higher-pitched clacky sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Ocean offers a sharper and crisper sound. If you prioritize aesthetics and RGB lighting, the Ocean's translucent polycarbonate top housing may be more appealing. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Ocean provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, distinguishing it from the consistently clacky sound of the Ink Red's bottom housing. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different sound preferences and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Red linear switch to the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, it is evident that the Ink Red is lighter in terms of actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Ocean's 55 grams. The bottom out force for the Ink Red is also lighter at 60 grams, while the Ocean's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Ink Red would provide a lighter typing experience overall. The actuation force of a switch is crucial for triggering keystrokes efficiently, while the bottom out force measures the pressure needed to fully press a key. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Ink Red for longer typing or gaming sessions, while others may opt for the heavier actuation force of the Ocean for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on the individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of these two switches, it can be said that they provide a similar tactile experience in terms of how far the keys travel when pressed. This means that users can expect consistent results in terms of key feel and responsiveness from both switches. Overall, while there may be differences in other aspects of the switches, such as actuation force or sound, the travel distance remains the same, ensuring a familiar typing experience regardless of which switch is chosen.
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 Ocean 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, making it suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. It also has a chirpy characteristic that sets it apart with a unique acoustic signature. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch is unknown, but the sound of a switch is influenced by various factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch provides a silky smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. It also offers a mild and polished feel, making it approachable to most users. Conversely, the feeling of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch is not specified, leaving us without information on its tactile characteristics.
Overall, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch is known for its smoothness and satisfying feel paired with a crispy and clacky sound profile, making it an ideal choice for those with a lighter typing style. While the sound and feel qualities of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch remain unknown, it's important to consider personal preferences and usage needs when selecting a mechanical keyboard switch. If you prefer a similar typing experience to the Gateron Ink Red, you may consider trying the Outemu Ocean tactile switch to see if it meets your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a smoother and lighter typing experience with a moderate sound profile, the Gateron Ink Red would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile feedback in your typing experience, the Outemu Ocean switch might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what you prioritize in a keyboard switch before making a decision.
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