Gateron Ink Red vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Ink Red and the SP-Star RedBlue. Both switches belong to the linear category, offering a smooth typing experience without any tactile bump or audible click. The Ink Red stands out for its lower actuation force, making it ideal for individuals who have a light typing style. This switch is known for its satisfyingly smooth keystrokes, accompanied by a crisp and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the RedBlue linear switches offer a medium-light typing experience, making them suitable for those who prefer a slightly firmer touch. These switches produce a relatively higher-pitched sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your own preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Red and the SP-Star RedBlue have contrasting housing materials. The Ink Red features a proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing, while the RedBlue uses polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Red provides a pointed and high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the RedBlue creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the RedBlue is translucent, making it ideal for utilizing RGB lighting. Meanwhile, the Ink Red does not specifically mention any aesthetic advantages of its INK blend top housing. It is important to note that if a switch features a clear housing, it is more likely to be made of polycarbonate. Therefore, the polycarbonate top housing of the RedBlue allows for a visually appealing experience when combined with RGB lighting effects.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches have similar qualities. The Ink Red's proprietary INK blend and the polycarbonate bottom housing of the RedBlue exhibit a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. This results in a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound, often described as clacky. Therefore, if you press down on either switch, you will experience similar sound and feel due to the shared qualities of the bottom housing material.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and the SP-Star RedBlue differ in their top housing, with the Ink Red using a proprietary INK blend and the RedBlue utilizing polycarbonate. The INK blend top housing provides a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, while the polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for RGB lighting effects. However, both switches share similar qualities in their bottom housing, resulting in a satisfying and clacky sound when pressed.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. The actuation force of the Ink Red is 45 grams, whereas the exact value for the RedBlue is unavailable. However, since the RedBlue is described as medium-light in bottom out force, it can be inferred that its actuation force may also be lighter than the Ink Red.
In terms of bottom out force, the Ink Red requires 60 grams of force, while the RedBlue has a bottom out force of 57 grams, making it slightly lighter. Both switches fall under the medium category, but the RedBlue leans towards the lighter side.
When it comes to weight, some individuals prefer lighter switches for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions, as it reduces strain and fatigue. In this case, the RedBlue switch would be the lighter option. On the other hand, some users prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, which is where the Ink Red switch would be a better fit due to its heavier bottom out force.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch has a higher actuation force and slightly heavier bottom out force compared to the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, which is lighter in both respects. However, since both switches fall within the medium range, the general typing experience might be similar despite the differences in force.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same 4 mm distance. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide similar results.
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 SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 has a unique and satisfying sound profile. It can be described as neutral, with a moderate sound profile that is suitable for both beginners and advanced users. Additionally, these switches have a chirpy quality to them, adding a distinctive acoustic signature that sets them apart from other switches. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch has a lower-pitched sound. It produces a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Similar to the Ink Red, the RedBlue switch is also neutral, providing a moderate sound profile suitable for various applications. Additionally, the RedBlue switch is described as thocky, meaning it produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Ink Red is known for its silky smooth typing experience. These switches are exceptionally smooth, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. They also offer a mild typing experience, which is more gentle compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. This makes the Ink Reds suitable for a wide range of users. Furthermore, the Ink Reds have a polished finish that contributes to a sleek typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Similarly, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch provides a mild and approachable typing experience. These switches are designed to offer a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of sound and feel. They also have a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. Like the Ink Reds, the RedBlue switches ensure reduced friction and smooth key travel.
To summarize, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch have distinct sound and feel characteristics. The Ink Red provides a satisfyingly smooth feel with a crispy and clacky sound profile. It is suitable for those with a lighter typing style who prefer a neutral switch with a chirpy sound. On the other hand, the RedBlue switch offers a medium-light typing experience with a lower-pitched, thocky sound profile. Both switches provide a mild and approachable typing experience and have a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel. Depending on your personal preferences and typing style, either switch can deliver a premium typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prefer a lighter typing experience and appreciate a crispy and clacky sound, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches have a medium actuation force and offer a smooth and effortless typing feel. Additionally, the Ink Reds have a unique chirpy sound profile, which sets them apart from other switches. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a relatively higher-pitched sound, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch would be a better fit. With a lower bottom out force, these switches provide a more gentle typing feel. They also have a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and smooth typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between Gateron Ink Red and SP-Star RedBlue switches depends on your preferences for actuation force, sound, and feel.
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