Gateron Ink Red vs. Outemu Silent Yellow Jade
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade mechanical keyboard switches, there are some distinct differences to consider. The Gateron Ink Red is a linear switch, ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing style due to its lower actuation force. Known for its smooth feel and crisp, clacky sound profile, the Ink Reds are effortless to type on. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade is a tactile switch that offers a quiet typing experience with a satisfying "thocky" sound. With a unique translucent jade yellow housing and a punchy tactile bump, these switches provide tactile feedback for those who prefer 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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Nylon
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
Both the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Ink Red's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a clacky and high-pitched sound, while the Silent Yellow Jade's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound. In terms of bottom housing, the Ink Red's INK blend produces a thin and higher-pitched sound, while the Silent Yellow Jade's nylon bottom housing results in a duller and rounder sound. This contrast showcases how different housing materials can significantly impact the overall sound of a switch.
Despite their differences, the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches both demonstrate the importance of housing materials in creating a unique typing experience. The INK blend used in the Ink Red results in a pointed sound profile, whereas the nylon material in the Silent Yellow Jade offers a more rounded sound. While the INK blend may provide a clacky sound, the nylon material absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper typing experience. These variations highlight how housing materials can influence the overall feel and sound of a switch, catering to different preferences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and typing experience. Both switches offer distinct characteristics based on their housing materials, with the INK blend providing a sharper sound and the nylon material offering a fuller sound. Whether you prefer a clacky and high-pitched typing experience or a deeper and rounder sound, these switches showcase how housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall feel and sound of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch is lighter compared to the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch in terms of actuation force, with 45 grams versus 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ink Red is still lighter at 60 grams compared to the Silent Yellow Jade's 65 grams. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range of forces, making them suitable for different preferences. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Ink Red for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may appreciate the heavier bottom out force of the Silent Yellow Jade for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch is 4 mm, while the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Ink Red has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Silent Yellow Jade, making it more suitable for those who prefer a deeper key press. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow Jade offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to individuals looking for a faster response time, such as gamers. Both switches are within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Silent Yellow Jade leaning towards the shallower end. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for key depth and responsiveness.
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 Yellow Jade 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, suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. The sound is described as both satisfyingly smooth and crispy with a clacky sound profile, providing an enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch offers a unique "thocky" sound with a quieter tactile typing experience. The sound of each switch will be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Red switch is known for its silky smooth typing experience, making it a pleasant option for those who prefer minimal resistance when typing. With a mild and polished feel, these switches offer a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone suitable for most users. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches offer a punchy tactile bump for a more pronounced typing feel. While specific descriptors for the feel of this switch are not provided, the tactile nature of the switch suggests a more tactile typing experience compared to the linear nature of the Gateron Ink Red.
Overall, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Red provides a smooth and satisfying typing experience with a neutral sound profile, while the Silent Yellow Jade offers a quieter, tactile typing experience with a unique "thocky" sound. Depending on your preference for linear or tactile switches, as well as your desired sound profile and typing feel, either switch can provide a great typing experience. Whether you choose the Ink Red or the Silent Yellow Jade, you can expect quality switches that will enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a lighter typing experience with a smooth and crisp feel, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a quieter typing experience with a tactile bump and a unique "thocky" sound, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch would be the better option. Consider your preferences in terms of sound and feel when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade will come down to your personal typing style and preferences.
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