Gateron Ink Red vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Ink Red and the Gateron Type L mechanical keyboard switches, it all boils down to your personal preferences and typing style. The Gateron Ink Red, a linear switch, is perfect for those who prefer a lighter actuation force and a smooth typing experience. This switch offers a crispy and clacky sound profile, making it satisfyingly responsive. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L, also a linear switch, stands out for being the lightest in its series, requiring only 45g to bottom out. This switch delivers a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum, providing an elegant typing experience. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
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 Gateron Type L, it is clear that the Ink Red utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housing, while the Type L opts for nylon for both components. The INK blend in the Ink Red is known for its relatively high-pitched and clacky sound profile, providing a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon housing in the Type L offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. Despite these differences, both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
In terms of sound characteristics, the INK blend housing of the Gateron Ink Red is noted for its pointed and high-pitched sound, creating a satisfying clacky typing experience. In contrast, the nylon housing of the Gateron Type L produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, offering a quieter and rounder typing feel. These variations in sound are largely attributed to the different materials used in the housing of each switch, with the INK blend providing a sharper sound compared to the more mellow tones of nylon.
While the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and the Gateron Type L may differ, both switches are designed to provide a unique typing experience. The top and bottom housing materials play a crucial role in determining the sound profile and feel of each switch. The split qualities between the top and bottom housing components ensure that users can enjoy a well-rounded typing experience with distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, whether one prefers the high-pitched clack of the INK blend in the Ink Red or the deeper sound of nylon in the Type L, both switches offer quality housing materials that contribute to an enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, we can see that the Type L is the lighter option while the Ink Red is the heavier. The Ink Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a medium typing experience. On the other hand, the Type L has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, which is considered light. Those looking for a lighter typing feel may prefer the Type L, as it requires less force to activate a key press. In contrast, the heavier forces of the Ink Red can provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference in terms of typing feel and force requirements. If similar results are desired, choosing either switch will provide a comparable typing experience in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting the travel distance of these two switches, they both offer a consistent typing experience with a standard 4 mm travel distance. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of key travel and feel when using either switch. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches makes it a matter of personal preference when choosing between them, as neither offers a shorter or longer travel distance than the other. Both switches provide a smooth and linear typing experience with a standard 4 mm travel distance.
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 Type L comes in at $4.70 per 10 switches.
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 provides a more neutral and moderate sound profile, with a slight chirpy characteristic that sets it apart. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L linear switch also offers a neutral sound profile but leans towards a more subdued and dampened sound when pressed. Both switches offer unique sound qualities that can be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Ink Red switch is praised for its silky smooth typing experience, along with a mild and polished feel that enhances overall typing comfort. In contrast, the Gateron Type L switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, requiring minimal effort to activate the keys and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Each switch offers a different typing experience suited to individual preferences and typing styles.
Overall, the Gateron Ink Red and the Gateron Type L linear switches provide distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Ink Red switch offers a crispy and clacky sound profile and a smooth typing experience, the Type L switch delivers a deeper and more subdued sound with a feathery and easy-to-press feel. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, so choosing between them will ultimately depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer quality and satisfying typing experiences that will suit a wide range of users.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, you should consider your typing style and preferences. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a smooth typing experience with a crispy sound profile, the Gateron Ink Red would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer an even lighter actuation force and a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum, the Gateron Type L would be a suitable option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on which switch aligns more closely with your typing preferences and needs.
Mentioned in this article
