Gateron Ink Red vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Red and the HMX SU are two linear options that cater to different typing preferences and styles. The Ink Red is celebrated for its lower actuation force, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. This switch offers a satisfyingly smooth feel, accompanied by a crispy and clacky sound profile that adds a fun auditory element to your typing sessions. In contrast, the HMX SU stands out with its full PA12 housing and T5 stem, which together create a subtle but relatively deep sound profile. While the Ink Red is ideal for typists looking for a polished and airy sensation, the HMX SU appeals to those who enjoy a more muted yet rich auditory feedback. Both switches have their unique strengths, and your choice will ultimately depend on your personal preferences and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T5
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and the HMX SU switches, a distinctive difference lies in the composition of their top housings. The Ink Red utilizes a proprietary INK blend that elevates its sound profile to one that is pointed and high-pitched, described as “clacky.” This material’s unique properties contribute to a lighter sound when keys are struck, making it appealing for those who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback. In contrast, the HMX SU features a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper, more resonant sound due to nylon’s softer qualities. While the Ink Red offers a sharper auditory experience, the HMX SU’s nylon top results in a fuller and rounder acoustic profile.
Examining the bottom housings reveals a similar trend of contrasting materials. The Ink Red again adopts its proprietary INK blend, reinforcing that high-pitched, clacky sound, while the HMX SU employs nylon which absorbs sound better and generates a duller tone. This difference is significant since the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out feel and sound of the switch. Thus, users who prefer a pronounced sound upon actuation may gravitate toward the Ink Red, while those seeking a more subdued and warm auditory experience might opt for the HMX SU. The materials dictate not just the acoustic properties but also the emotional responses evoked during typing.
Ultimately, while both switches can provide satisfying typing experiences, the nuances of their housing materials create a unique character for each. Users who mix and match keycaps or utilize certain typing techniques will find that their choices can bridge the differences in sound profiles. If a user desires a blend of both auditory responses, they might achieve a compromise by selecting mixed configurations or experimenting with different key feedbacks on their chosen keyboard. Through this exploration, one can attain an experience that combines the sharpness of the Ink Red with the fullness of the HMX SU, leading to interesting and personalized outcomes in acoustic performance.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, both switches feature the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning they will require the same effort to trigger a keystroke. However, they diverge when it comes to bottom out forces; the Ink Red bottom out force is 60 grams, while the SU's is lighter at 50 grams. This difference suggests that while both switches offer a similar initial responsiveness, the Ink Red provides a more substantial feeling at the bottom of a keystroke, making it suitable for users who prefer a heavier push feel. In contrast, the lighter bottom out of the SU makes it a better option for those who favor a softer touch and may be more comfortable for prolonged use during typing or gaming sessions. Therefore, if you value a lighter feel, the HMX SU may be the better choice, while the Gateron Ink Red offers a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX SU linear switch features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference in travel distance can significantly influence the typing experience; the Ink Red offers a more traditional, deeper feel which some users may find more satisfying. In contrast, the HMX SU's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers or those seeking quicker key presses for enhanced responsiveness. If you prefer the greater depth and tactile feedback of the longer travel distance, the Ink Red would be the better choice. However, if you're looking for less travel and quicker actuation, the SU may be more suitable for your needs. Overall, the two switches cater to different preferences, with the Ink Red being the longer option and the HMX SU being the shorter.
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 HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
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 stands out with its crispy and clacky profile that provides a unique auditory signature, often adding a lively atmosphere to your typing. This switch exhibits some chirpiness, which can be charming and engaging for typists who enjoy a bit of acoustic character in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the HMX SU switch has a more subtle, relatively deep sound profile thanks to its full PA12 housing. While specific descriptors for the SU's sound aren't provided, the deeper sound typically evokes a more solid feel compared to the more bright and pronounced sound of the Ink Reds. Ultimately, the choice between these two will come down to personal preference regarding the type of sound experience you desire.
In terms of feel, the Ink Red switch excels with its exceptionally smooth and polished typing experience. It is characterized by a silky action that minimizes resistance during key presses and releases, making it particularly suitable for those who type lightly or for extended periods. The mild characteristics of the Ink Red further contribute to an approachable typing experience, allowing users of all skill levels to enjoy its performance. Unfortunately, there is no available description of the feel of the SU switch, leaving an unknown in this comparison. This lack of information makes it difficult to assess how the SU's tactile feedback might contrast with the exceptionally smooth and refined feel of the Ink Red.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Ink Red switch is celebrated for its delightful sound and its smooth, polished feel, the HMX SU switch offers a deeper, more subdued auditory signature that could appeal to those avoiding excessive noise. The smooth and silky typing experience of the Ink Red is a significant highlight, although we lack detailed information about the SU switch's feel and tactile feedback. Selecting between these two will depend heavily on whether the user prefers a more vibrant typing sound and smoothness or seeks a deeper, potentially quieter switch experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a smoother typing experience with a bit more resistance, the Ink Red would be a great choice due to its medium 60-gram bottom-out force, silky feel, and slightly chirpy sound profile that adds a unique character to your keystrokes. This makes them suitable for both beginners and experienced typists looking for a versatile option that works well in both home and office environments. On the other hand, if you're someone who enjoys a lighter touch with less resistance while typing, the HMX SU, with its lower 50-gram bottom-out force, might be more appealing. The subtle and deep sound profile adds a satisfying acoustic characteristic while still providing a smooth feel. Ultimately, choosing one over the other is about what feels best for you; the Ink Red caters to those who appreciate a bit more feedback, while the SU is perfect for those who prefer a lighter and less intense typing experience.
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