Gateron Ink Red vs. Outemu Spring Breeze
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Spring Breeze present two distinct options for users to consider. The Gateron Ink Red is a linear switch, which is ideal for those with a lighter typing style due to its lower actuation force. Known for its smoothness and satisfyingly crisp sound profile, the Ink Reds are effortless to type on. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze is a clicky switch that offers a different typing experience. Although not categorized with specific characteristics, the Spring Breeze provides a tactile feedback and audible click that some users prefer for a more traditional typing feel. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, making them suitable for different preferences and needs. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 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
Nylon
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 Spring Breeze switches both offer unique characteristics to enhance the typing experience. The Ink Red's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, while the Spring Breeze's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. This contrast in sound profiles can result in a different typing feel for users, with the Ink Red being described as clacky and the Spring Breeze offering a smoother, rounder sound.
In terms of bottom housing, both switches continue their distinct sound profiles. The Ink Red's INK blend bottom housing contributes to the high-pitched and satisfying sound of the switch, complementing the top housing's characteristics. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder bottom-out sound. This difference in sound between the two switches can appeal to different preferences, with the Ink Red providing a sharper, more pronounced typing experience and the Spring Breeze offering a softer, more muted sound.
Overall, the top and bottom housing materials play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch. While the Gateron Ink Red and Outemu Spring Breeze switches have contrasting housing materials, they both aim to enhance the typing experience for users. Whether you prefer the clacky feel of the Ink Red's proprietary INK blend or the smoother typing experience of the Spring Breeze's nylon housing, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch. The Ink Red requires 45 grams of force to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out, while the Spring Breeze needs 40 grams to actuate and 55 grams to bottom out. Both switches fall within the medium weight range, with the Ink Red feeling slightly heavier than the Spring Breeze. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Spring Breeze, as its actuation and bottom out forces are lower. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may prefer the Ink Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When pressing down on a key with either of these switches, the distance traveled from the top to the bottom will be the same. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of key travel with both switches. Whether you choose the Gateron Ink Red or the Outemu Spring Breeze, you can rely on a 4 mm travel distance to provide a tactile feedback while typing.
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 Spring Breeze 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 crisp and clacky sound profile, making it satisfying to use for many typists. Its neutral sound profile is suitable for a wide range of users, whether they are beginners or advanced typists. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch lacks a defined sound description, making it harder to evaluate its sound profile accurately. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be affected by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and choice of keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch is described as offering a silky smooth typing experience. The mild characteristics of this switch make it approachable and comfortable for most users. The polished finish of the switch contributes to a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch does not have a specific feel description available, making it difficult to compare directly to the Gateron Ink Red. However, based on the lack of information, it is likely that the typing experience may not be as refined and smooth as the Ink Red.
Overall, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch stands out for its smooth and satisfying typing experience, crisp sound profile, and versatility in catering to different typing styles. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch lacks detailed descriptions of its sound and feel, making it harder to make a direct comparison. If you are looking for a reliably smooth and pleasant typing experience, the Gateron Ink Red would be a solid choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, consider the typing style and preferences of the user. If you prefer a lighter typing experience with a smooth key press and a crispy sound profile, the Ink Red would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a slightly lighter bottom out force and a clicky sound profile, the Spring Breeze may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to personal preference and what feels best for your typing needs.
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