Gateron Ink Red vs. Outemu Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Red mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that they both fall under the linear switch category. The Gateron Ink Red is known for its lower actuation force, making it ideal for individuals with a lighter typing style. The switch offers a satisfyingly smooth typing experience, emits a crispy and clacky sound profile, and is effortless to type on. In contrast, the Outemu Red does not have any specific standout features and is relatively neutral in its characteristics. While the Gateron Ink Red is characterized by neutrality, silkiness, chirpiness, mildness, and polish, the Outemu Red does not have any particular categories. Both switches have their own strengths and weaknesses, providing users with different typing experiences. However, let's delve deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide which switch is right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.10 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
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Red switches have distinct characteristics that impact the overall sound and feel of the keyboard. The Gateron Ink Red features a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, described as clacky. In contrast, the Outemu Red uses a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. While both materials offer high-pitched sound profiles, the INK blend may have a slightly softer tone compared to the polycarbonate.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Gateron Ink Red utilizes its proprietary INK blend, which provides a similar high-pitched sound profile as the top housing. On the other hand, the Outemu Red switches incorporate a nylon bottom housing, known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound profile compared to the INK blend. This contrast highlights how different housing materials can affect the overall typing experience and sound quality of a keyboard.
In summary, the choice of housing materials in keyboard switches plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of the keyboard. While both the Gateron Ink Red and Outemu Red switches offer high-pitched sound profiles, the materials used in their housings result in slightly different tones and experiences for the user. Whether it's the stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Outemu Red or the softer nylon bottom housing of the Gateron Ink Red, each material brings unique characteristics that cater to individual preferences in typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and overall typing style.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch are quite similar, with the Ink Red being slightly lighter. The Ink Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Outemu Red has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams. Both switches fall into the medium range in terms of force required. This means that users can expect a relatively light typing experience with a slight difference in feel between the two switches. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Gateron Ink Red, while those who enjoy a slightly firmer keystroke may prefer the Outemu Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch is the same, both measuring at 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent distance of 4 mm. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, you can expect similar results from both switches. Whether you choose the Gateron Ink Red or the Outemu Red, you can rely on a consistent travel distance of 4 mm for a smooth typing experience.
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 Red 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
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch is known for its smooth and satisfying typing experience, with a crispy and clacky sound profile that some may find unique and enjoyable. It is also characterized by a lower actuation force, making it ideal for those with a lighter typing style. On the other hand, the Outemu Red linear switch does not have specific characteristics known for sound or feel. In terms of sound, the Ink Red can be described as either neutral or chirpy, offering a moderate sound profile that suits various purposes. As for feel, it is known for its silky, mild, and polished qualities, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with reduced friction.
Given the information provided, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch offers a more defined and specialized sound and feel profile compared to the Outemu Red linear switch, which has unknown specifics in this regard. If you are looking for a switch with a lower actuation force and a unique sound profile, the Ink Red would be a great choice. However, if you prefer a more standard linear switch without specific characteristics in sound and feel, the Outemu Red could still provide a similar typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and actuation force.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, consider your typing style and preferences. If you have a lighter touch and prefer a smooth, crispy typing experience with a moderate sound profile, the Gateron Ink Red may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a slightly higher bottom out force and do not have specific sound or feel preferences, the Outemu Red linear switch could be a suitable option. Ultimately, both switches offer a reliable linear typing experience, so choose the one that best fits your individual needs and preferences.
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