Gateron Ink Red vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Gateron Ink Red and the Gateron Silent Ink Black. The Gateron Ink Red is a linear switch that is perfect for those with a lighter typing style. With a lower actuation force, it offers a satisfyingly smooth and effortless typing experience. Its sound profile is crispy and clacky, adding to the overall tactile satisfaction. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black is a silenced version of the Ink Black switch, making it ideal for environments that require quieter typing. It offers a cushion-like bottom-out feel and minimal audio feedback, providing a more serene experience. Both switches are categorized as 'Silky' and 'Polished', but the Silent Ink Black is also 'Muted'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and the Gateron Silent Ink Black are very similar. Both switches utilize Gateron's proprietary INK blend for their top and bottom housings. This commonality means that the sound profiles of the two switches are quite comparable. They both offer a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, which is described as satisfying and clacky. Whether you are using the Ink Red or the Silent Ink Black, you can expect a similar auditory experience when pressing down on the keys.
However, if there is any difference in the housing materials between the two switches, it will affect the bottom-out sound and feel, as well as the sound when releasing the key. The bottom housing plays a more significant role in determining the sensation when fully pressing down on the switch. So, if there are any variations between the two switches in terms of the bottom housing material, it could result in a subtle difference in the tactile experience.
On the other hand, the top housing has a greater influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. If there are any disparities between the top housing materials of the Ink Red and the Silent Ink Black, it may cause a slight variation in the sound that is emitted after the key is released. However, since both switches utilize Gateron's INK blend for their top housings as well, it is likely that the sound produced when releasing a key will be relatively similar between the two.
In summary, while the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and the Gateron Silent Ink Black may slightly differ, they share Gateron's proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housings. As a result, the overall sound profiles of these switches are largely comparable. The main distinction may lie in the bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing may have a more noticeable effect on the sound emitted when releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Gateron Ink Red requires a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, while the Silent Ink Black requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 60 grams. This means that the Ink Red switch will register a keystroke with a lighter touch compared to the Silent Ink Black. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Silent Ink Black is again slightly heavier, requiring 70 grams compared to the Ink Red's 60 grams. Therefore, the Silent Ink Black provides a more substantial typing experience, with a stronger push feel than the Ink Red. If one prefers a lighter switch for longer periods of typing or gaming, the Ink Red would be a suitable choice, while those seeking a heavier and more tactile typing experience may prefer the Silent Ink Black. Overall, both switches offer medium to medium-heavy forces, providing a satisfying typing experience depending on personal preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will offer a similar tactile experience when keys are pressed, as users will feel the same distance of movement from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the two switches. Whether using the Gateron Ink Red or the Gateron Silent Ink Black, users can expect a consistent and comfortable typing experience with the same level of key travel.
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 Gateron Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
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 switch is best described as having a neutral and chirpy sound profile. The neutral sound profile means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound level, making it suitable for most purposes. The ink red switch also has a unique acoustic signature with a little squeak to them, setting them apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch is described as having a muted sound. This means that it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both the Gateron Ink Red and Gateron Silent Ink Black switches offer a silky typing experience. This refers to a switch that offers an exceptionally smooth typing feel by enhancing overall smoothness and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, both switches are described as polished, indicating that they have a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This can be attributed to the use of high-quality materials and potentially factory lubing, which reduces friction and promotes smooth key travel. The overall feel of these switches is gentle and approachable to most, making them suitable for various typing styles.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch is ideal for those with a lighter typing style, offering a satisfyingly smooth feel and a crispy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch is perfect for environments that require quieter typing, featuring a pillow-like bottom-out feel and a muted sound profile. Both switches provide a silky typing experience and have a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. While their sound profiles differ, the Ink Red and Silent Ink Black switches share similar qualities in terms of feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences and the specific requirements of the user.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a lighter typing style and enjoy a crispy and clacky sound profile, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch is the perfect choice for you. With its medium actuation force and smooth typing experience, these switches are effortless to type on. On the other hand, if you require a quieter typing experience in your environment, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch is ideal. With its soft and cushion-like bottom-out feel and minimal audio feedback, these switches are perfect for situations where noise reduction is necessary. Overall, both switches offer a silky and polished typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Red and Gateron Silent Ink Black will depend on your typing style and the noise requirements of your environment.
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