Gateron Ink Red vs. Durock Piano

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two linear switches stand out: the Gateron Ink Red and the Durock Piano. The Gateron Ink Red is known for its lower actuation force, making it ideal for those with a lighter typing style. Its smoothness, crisp and clacky sound profile, and effortless typing experience have garnered praise from users. On the other hand, the Durock Piano shines with its proprietary material blend, resulting in one of the most pleasant linear switches to type on. Users appreciate the gliding push feel and deep, creamy sound signature it offers. The Ink Red is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Silky', 'Chirpy', 'Mild', and 'Polished', while the Piano is described as 'Bassy', 'Frictionless', and 'Silky'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Red Linear

Durock Piano Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

$6.70

$5.57 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron Ink Red and the Durock Piano differ in terms of their housing materials. The Ink Red features Gateron's proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housing. The top housing of the Ink Red offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. In contrast, the exact details of the blend used for the top housing of the Durock Piano are unknown, but it is said to provide a uniquely satisfying and deep sound profile. Thus, while both switches offer unique sound profiles, the Ink Red leans towards a higher-pitched clacky sound, while the Piano emphasizes a deeper and more satisfying sound.

On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing, both switches utilize their proprietary blends. The bottom housing of the Ink Red contributes to its pointed and high-pitched sound profile. Similarly, the exact details of the POM blend used for the bottom housing of the Piano are undisclosed, but it is known to provide a satisfying and deep sound profile. Therefore, while the bottom housing of both switches contributes to the overall sound production, the specific characteristics of each blend may result in variations in terms of pitch and depth.

It's worth noting that if the top and bottom housings are different for a given switch, as is the case with the Ink Red and the Piano, the qualities of each housing material will be split between the bottom and the top of the switch. When pressing down on either switch, the bottom housing will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will play a greater role in producing the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the specific materials and blends used in the top and bottom housings differ between the Ink Red and the Piano, the overall user experience may still yield similar results in terms of sound production and tactile feedback.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to note. The actuation force of the Gateron Ink Red is 45 grams, while the exact actuation force of the Durock Piano is not available. However, both switches fall within the medium range in terms of actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the Gateron Ink Red requires 60 grams of force, while the Durock Piano requires a slightly heavier 63.5 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gateron Ink Red may be the better choice as it requires less force both for actuation and bottoming out. This lightness can prove beneficial for extended typing or gaming sessions, as it reduces fatigue and strain on the fingers. On the other hand, individuals who seek a more substantial and forceful typing experience may prefer the Durock Piano. With its slightly heavier bottom out force, it offers a stronger push feel, resulting in a more pronounced keystroke.

While the actuation forces of the two switches are within the same range, the Durock Piano does require a slightly heavier force for bottoming out. However, it is important to note that both switches offer a similar typing experience due to their medium actuation forces. Therefore, individuals who are accustomed to typing on one of these switches can expect similar results when switching to the other.

Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Red and the Durock Piano depends on personal preference. Some may prioritize a lightweight typing experience, making the Gateron Ink Red the ideal option. Others may prefer a heavier and more forceful typing feel, leading them to opt for the Durock Piano. Regardless, both switches offer reliable performance within their respective actuation force ranges, providing satisfying typing experiences for users.

Travel distance

The Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. When pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel a consistent 4 mm of travel distance. Therefore, both switches will provide similar results in terms of the distance you feel when pressing down on a key. Neither switch is shorter or longer than the other in terms of travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch is known for its neutral sound profile, which makes it suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. It offers a moderate actuation force requirement and generates a moderate sound while typing. However, what sets the Ink Red apart is its unique chirpy characteristic, which adds a slight squeak to the sound profile. On the other hand, the Durock Piano linear switch is described as bassy, providing a deeper and richer sound profile with a lower frequency range, reminiscent of bass tones. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles, and the final sound also depends on factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Red offers a silky, mild, and polished typing experience. The switch is exceptionally smooth, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. With its middle-ground qualities, it provides a gentle and approachable typing experience suitable for most users. The Durock Piano switch is also silky to the touch, providing an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience. Its frictionless nature minimizes any sense of resistance or friction while pressing the keys, ensuring a fluid travel. Both switches excel in terms of feel, offering a smooth and refined typing experience.

In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Red and Durock Piano linear switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Red provides a satisfyingly smooth and slightly chirpy sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes. Additionally, it offers a silky, mild, and polished typing feel with reduced friction. On the other hand, the Piano switch stands out with its deep and creamy sound signature, characterized by a lower frequency range. Its silky and frictionless feel provides an effortless typing experience. While each switch has its unique qualities, users can expect similar smoothness and overall pleasant typing experiences from both options.

Conclusion

Bringing it all together, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, there are a few factors to consider. If you prefer a lighter typing style and a switch with lower actuation force, then the Gateron Ink Red would be a great choice for you. These switches are known for their satisfyingly smooth feel, crispy and clacky sound, and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize a pleasant typing experience characterized by a gliding push feel and a deep, creamy sound signature, the Durock Piano switch would be more suitable. These switches are also known for their proprietary material blend, which enhances their overall smoothness. When it comes to sound, the Ink Red offers a neutral and chirpy sound profile, while the Piano offers a bassy sound profile. In terms of feel, the Ink Red provides a silky, mild, and polished experience, while the Piano offers a frictionless and silky feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on your personal preferences and the typing experience you are seeking.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Red Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn more

Durock Piano Linear

$6.70

$5.57 per 10

Learn more