Gateron Ink Red vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a multitude of options to choose from, each offering a unique typing experience. Two switches that stand out are the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Phoenix. The Gateron Ink Red is a linear switch, known for its lower actuation force and perfect for those with a lighter typing style. This switch is delightfully smooth, producing a satisfyingly crispy and clacky sound profile while remaining effortless to type on. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix is a clicky switch that boasts a one-of-a-kind under-skirt click mechanism. This feature makes it the most unique clicky switch available today, providing a crystalline and sparkling typing feel and sound profile. While the Ink Red offers a more neutral and silky typing experience, the Phoenix is characterized by its crunchy and polished nature. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your individual needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Phoenix switches both contribute to a satisfying sound profile, but there are notable differences in their characteristics. The Ink Red utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housing, which creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. This thin and clacky sound is well-regarded by users. On the other hand, the Phoenix features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate is particularly advantageous for those who plan to use RGB lighting in their setup.
While there are differences in their sound profiles, the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Phoenix share some similarities in terms of housing materials. Both incorporate polycarbonate as part of their housing, which enhances the sound quality of the switches. The clear housing of the Phoenix switch, indicative of its polycarbonate construction, allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects to shine through. Similarly, the Ink Red's proprietary INK blend provides a satisfying thin and clacky sound. Therefore, if you are seeking a switch with a high-pitched and resonant sound, either of these switches would deliver similar results.
When it comes to the impact of the housing materials on the overall switch experience, the top and bottom housings play distinct roles. The bottom housing has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down. This means that the choice of housing material in the bottom housing can greatly affect the tactile feedback and overall typing experience. Conversely, the top housing primarily affects the sound when a key is released. The combination of the top housing material and the weight of the switch can contribute to a satisfying and enjoyable sound when keys are released. So, understanding the characteristics of both the top and bottom housing materials is crucial in selecting the desired switch experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, we can observe some similarities and differences. The Ink Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Phoenix's actuation force is unavailable. However, they both have a medium bottom out force, with the Ink Red requiring 60 grams and the Phoenix 62 grams.
Considering weight, some users may prefer a lighter switch like the Ink Red for extended typing or gaming sessions, as it allows for more comfortable and prolonged use. On the other hand, those who desire a more substantial typing experience may prefer a switch with a heavier actuation force. Unfortunately, we do not have the exact actuation force for the Phoenix, so it is difficult to compare it precisely with the Ink Red. However, based on the provided information, it can be inferred that the Phoenix clicky switch might provide a slightly heavier actuation force compared to the Ink Red, given its higher bottom out force of 62 grams.
Overall, both switches offer a medium bottom out force, but while the actuation force for the Ink Red is known to be 45 grams, the exact actuation force of the Phoenix remains unknown. It can be assumed that the Phoenix might have a slightly heavier actuation force than the Ink Red, but without specific data, this comparison cannot be definitively determined.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, we can see that the Ink Red has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Phoenix has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Ink Red's 4.0mm travel distance falls into the more traditional range, providing a familiar depth for users. On the other hand, the Phoenix's 3.3mm travel distance is slightly shallower, catering to those who prefer shorter distances for quicker response times, which is particularly favored by gamers. The Ink Red offers a more substantial feel due to its longer travel distance, making it a suitable choice for individuals who desire that hearty depth when pressing down on keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with the shorter travel distance of the Phoenix offering a more responsive feel, while the longer travel distance of the Ink Red provides a more pronounced keystroke.
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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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 switch offers a crisp and clacky sound profile. It has a neutral sound overall, suitable for most purposes. However, what sets it apart is its chirpy characteristic, which adds a unique acoustic signature to the switch. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is described as crunchy, resembling the sound of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. Both switches provide distinct sound experiences, with the Ink Red offering a chirpy tone and the Phoenix giving a crunchy sensation.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Red switch provides a silky and polished typing experience. It offers an exceptionally smooth feel, minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys, and enhances the overall smoothness of typing. It is also described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most typists. The Ink Red switch achieves its polished feel through smooth and refined materials or factory lubing, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Outemu Phoenix switch is also described as polished, providing a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Therefore, both switches offer a polished feel that enhances the typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Red provides a crispy and clacky sound with a chirpy characteristic, perfect for those with a lighter typing style. It also offers a silky and polished feel, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Phoenix switch offers a distinct crunchy sound reminiscent of stepping on leaves, while also delivering a polished feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Thus, depending on personal preferences and typing style, both switches can provide satisfying results with their unique qualities.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you prefer a lighter typing style and a smooth, effortless typing experience, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch is the way to go. With its lower actuation force and satisfyingly smooth feel, these switches are perfect for beginners or advanced typists alike. The Ink Reds also offer a crispy and clacky sound profile, giving a pleasant auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, if you're seeking a unique clicky switch with a crystalline and sparkling type feel, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is the one for you. These switches feature an under-skirt click mechanism, making them the most unique clicky switches available today. With a crunchy sound profile reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves, the Phoenix switches provide a distinct typing experience. Both switches have a medium bottom out force of 60-62 grams, making them suitable for most intents and purposes. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches boils down to your preferred typing style and the specific sound and feel you desire.
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