Gateron Ink Red vs. Outemu Silent Green
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Silent Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Ink Red, a linear switch, and the Outemu Silent Green, also a linear switch. The Gateron Ink Red is favored for its lower actuation force, making it ideal for individuals with a lighter typing style. Known for its smooth and satisfying feel, the Ink Reds produce a crispy and clacky sound profile, making typing effortless. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Green doesn't have any specific standout features mentioned. The Ink Reds are categorized as 'Neutral', 'Silky', 'Chirpy', 'Mild', and 'Polished', while the Silent Green doesn't have any specific categories associated with it. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Silent Green, it is evident that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Ink Red features a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housing, known for its satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Silent Green utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. However, the use of polycarbonate provides the Silent Green with a more clear and resonant sound profile due to its stiffer nature, while the INK blend in the Ink Red offers a unique clacky sound.
While the housing materials for the top and bottom of the switches differ, both the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Silent Green aim to enhance the sound and feel of mechanical keyboards. The INK blend in the Ink Red contributes to a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, whereas the polycarbonate in the Silent Green creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the Silent Green's housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through due to its translucency, adding an aesthetic appeal. Overall, both switches deliver distinct sound profiles and tactile responses based on their respective housing materials.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is important to note the role of the top and bottom housings in each switch. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the choice of housing material in each switch plays a significant role in determining the overall sound profile and tactile feedback experienced by the user. Whether it be the INK blend in the Ink Red or the polycarbonate in the Silent Green, each housing material contributes to the unique characteristics and performance of the mechanical keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams and bottom out force of 60 grams, making them equal in terms of weight. The actuation force of 45 grams is considered light, making it easy to type for extended periods without fatigue. The bottom out force of 60 grams provides a satisfying tactile feedback and helps prevent accidental key presses. Both switches offer a good balance between lightness and tactility, making them suitable for both work and gaming. Ultimately, whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience will depend on personal preference.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Ink Red and Outemu Silent Green linear switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. Due to this similarity, when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you can expect to feel a consistent and familiar distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This means that in terms of travel distance, the user experience will be virtually identical when using either switch. Thus, whether you opt for the Gateron Ink Red or the Outemu Silent Green, you can be assured of a smooth and consistent typing experience with the same 4 mm travel distance.
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 Silent 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 or chirpy sound profile, depending on the specific switch. These switches are versatile and can be suitable for various typing environments. The Outemu Silent Green, on the other hand, has no specific sound description available. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Ink Red switch provides a silky, mild, and polished typing experience. These switches are known for their smoothness and refined finish, making typing effortless and enjoyable. The Outemu Silent Green switch, unfortunately, does not have any specific feel descriptions available.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch have their own unique qualities. While the Gateron Ink Red is praised for its smoothness and versatile sound options, the Outemu Silent Green lacks specific information regarding sound and feel. If you are looking for a linear switch with a lighter actuation force and a pleasing sound profile, the Gateron Ink Red would be a reliable choice. For a quieter typing experience, the Outemu Silent Green may also be worth considering, although more information on its sound and feel would be beneficial in making a comparison. Ultimately, it is essential to consider your personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these two switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, you should choose the Ink Red if you prefer a smoother typing experience with a lighter actuation force. The Ink Red is also great for those who enjoy a crisp and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Silent Green may be the better choice if you prefer a silent typing experience and do not mind a slightly heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel, actuation force, and sound profile. Choose the switch that best aligns with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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