Gateron Ink Red vs. Akko Rosewood

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Ink Red and the Akko Rosewood offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Ink Red, known for its lightweight actuation force, caters to typists who favor a softer touch, providing a smooth keystroke with a charmingly crisp and clacky sound profile. Its neutral and polished characteristics make it an appealing choice for those who prioritize speed and fluidity without sacrificing audio feedback. On the other hand, the Akko Rosewood distinguishes itself with its deep, thocky sound, enhanced by a factory-applied lubricant that creates a rich auditory experience right from the start. Ideal for individuals who enjoy a more tactile and resonant typing experience, the Rosewood offers a unique blend of performance and acoustic delight. Both switches have their merits, appealing to different typing styles and preferences; however, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Red Linear

Akko Rosewood Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red switches and the Akko Rosewood switches, it's evident that they diverge significantly in terms of their construction and resultant sound profiles. The Ink Red switches utilize a proprietary INK blend for both their top and bottom housings, producing a distinctive pointed sound that's characterized as relatively high-pitched and clacky. This high-pitched nature contributes to a unique typing experience that many users find satisfying. In contrast, the Rosewood switches are constructed with nylon for both the top and bottom housings. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, primarily because it is a softer plastic that can absorb sound effectively, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience.

The differences in sound profiles between these two materials can be attributed to their physical properties. Gateron’s INK blend is designed for a higher-pitched auditory feedback that appeals to users who enjoy a more pronounced and sharper keystroke sound. Typically, enthusiasts who prefer a clackier typing experience might gravitate towards the Ink Red switches. On the other hand, users who favor a more muted typing sound and a softer bottom-out feel may opt for the Rosewood switches. The characteristics of the nylon used in the Rosewood switches contribute to a cushioned typing experience that is notably different from the crisp feedback of the INK blend.

However, even with their distinct compositions, users can achieve somewhat similar results by considering the overall interaction between the top and bottom housings in both switch types. While the Ink Red's higher-pitched sound comes from the INK blend and is sharper, the Rosewood's nylon offers a rounder note that creates a softer ambiance. Ultimately, switching between these materials will greatly influence the acoustic and tactile sensations; however, users may find that they can still enjoy satisfying typing experiences from both, albeit characterized by different sound profiles and feedback sensations. Thus, those who appreciate diverse tactile sensations may want to experiment with both types to discover which aligns best with their preferences.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch, the differences in actuation force and bottom out force highlight distinct preferences for typists and gamers. The Ink Red switch requires an actuation force of 45 grams and bottoms out at 60 grams, making it a medium-weight option that provides a bit more resistance, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. In contrast, the Rosewood switch features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for users who value a softer touch that can lead to less finger fatigue during extended use. Overall, the Ink Red is the heavier switch, while the Rosewood is the lighter option, catering to different typing preferences and styles.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch feature an identical travel distance of 4 mm. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable tactile experience when pressing down on either switch, resulting in a uniform feel during typing or gaming. With both switches having the same travel distance, the overall responsiveness and actuation should also be similar, making them interchangeable in scenarios where performance characteristics related to travel distance are a key consideration.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch exhibits a versatile, albeit muted, profile characterized by chirpiness and a moderate tonal quality. This neutral sound makes it suitable for a wide range of environments, whether at home or in an office setting. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood switch stands out with its pronounced thocky acoustics, enhanced by a thin layer of factory-applied lubricant that deepens the acoustics and provides a satisfying auditory feedback out of the box. While both switches have distinct sound profiles, the Ink Red's chirpy nature may appeal to those who prefer a livelier sound in a quieter environment, while the Rosewood is likely favored by users who enjoy a deeper, more resonant tone.

In terms of feel, the Ink Red switches shine with an exceptionally silky, polished, and mild typing experience that many newcomers would find approachable. Their smoothness reduces any resistance that may be encountered, leading to effortless typing. The refined construction further enhances their overall performance, making them very user-friendly. On the other hand, the feel of the Rosewood switches is not detailed in the available information, leaving some ambiguity about their tactile feedback. However, if they are similar to the Ink Reds in linear action, one could assume they offer a relatively smooth experience as well, albeit with unique characteristics that may contribute to a distinct typing sensation.

In summary, the Gateron Ink Red switches provide a smooth, mild, and chirpy typing experience which can work well in various settings, appealing to those who favor neutrality with a hint of liveliness. On the other hand, the Akko Rosewood switches cater to users looking for a deeper sound with a thocky profile, providing a different auditory experience. While the Ink Reds are notable for their smooth feel and a more universally approachable sound, the Rosewoods' lack of detailed feedback leaves room for exploration, suggesting that those interested in both switches can expect unique yet enjoyable typing experiences, with the sound being influenced by various factors such as the keyboard build and keycap choice.

Conclusion

To sum up, your choice between the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch largely depends on your typing preference and the sound profile you enjoy. If you prefer a switch with a medium bottom-out force of 60 grams that provides a smooth, polished feel along with a slightly chirpy sound, the Ink Red is your go-to option. It suits those who enjoy a versatile switch that performs well whether you're working or gaming, making it an excellent fit if your typing style is lighter and you appreciate a bit of a customizable sound. On the other hand, if a lighter switch is more to your liking, the Akko Rosewood with a 50-gram bottom-out force may be the better choice for you. Known for its deep, thocky sound straight out of the box, along with its overall satisfying acoustic profile, the Rosewood is perfect for those who prioritize a richer auditory experience while typing without needing to modify it further. Ultimately, your selection should reflect your specific preferences for feel and sound; both switches offer a unique experience that caters to different typing styles and environments.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Red Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn more

Akko Rosewood Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more