Gateron Ink Red vs. Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Ink Red and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear. The Ink Red is a linear switch that stands out for its lower actuation force, making it ideal for those with a lighter typing style. These switches are not only satisfyingly smooth but also produce a crisp and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear is also a linear switch and is known for providing a smooth, high-pitched typing experience. With its transparent polycarbonate top housing and UHMWPE bottom housing, these switches offer maximum RGB lighting customization. Additionally, the lightly lubed POM stem ensures minimal friction and a satisfyingly smooth keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide which switch is the perfect fit for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Double-staged stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches have distinct characteristics. The Ink Red's proprietary INK blend top housing offers a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. In contrast, the WS Aurora Clear features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also allows for enhanced aesthetics with its translucency, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting. While both materials contribute to a clear and resonant sound profile, each switch offers a slightly different tonal quality.
Turning our attention to the bottom housing, the Ink Red's proprietary INK blend and the WS Aurora Clear differ once again. The INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Red provides a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is characterized as clacky. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear incorporates UHWMPE as its bottom housing material. This newer material produces a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks when typing on switches with this housing. While both materials contribute to a distinct sound profile, the qualities they bring are slightly different.
In terms of overall impact, the difference in housing materials results in varying sound and feel when using the switches. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, meaning that the qualities of the INK blend bottom housing in the Ink Red and the UHWMPE bottom housing in the WS Aurora Clear will be more prominent during the keypress. Conversely, the top housing plays a larger role in the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches offer a satisfying clacky sound profile, albeit with their respective nuances.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, there are noticeable differences that may appeal to different preferences. The Ink Red has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the WS Aurora Clear's 53 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Ink Red requires 60 grams while the WS Aurora Clear is slightly heavier at 63.5 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Ink Red would be a suitable choice, as its lower actuation and bottom out forces allow for effortless keystrokes. This makes it ideal for individuals who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel and a stronger push, the WS Aurora Clear provides a medium-heavy option with slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces.
Although the two switches have different force requirements, they both fall within the medium range, meaning that the typing experience is relatively balanced and should not cause excessive fatigue. Therefore, individuals seeking a similar result in terms of force may choose either switch depending on their specific preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on the desired weight and feel during typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The Ink Red has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Aurora Clear has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Ink Red being slightly longer and the WS Aurora Clear slightly shorter. The Ink Red's 4.0mm travel distance offers a more traditional, deeper feel when pressing down on a key, which some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear's 3.8mm travel distance is slightly shallower, making it a favorable choice for those who prioritize faster response times, such as gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
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 Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear comes in at $8.00 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 and the WS Aurora Clear switches offer different qualities. The Ink Red is described as having a neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate sound that is suitable for most purposes. However, it also has a unique chirpy characteristic to it, giving it a slight squeak that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear has a high-pitched sound profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. If you prefer a sound that is more rich and bassy, the WS Aurora Clear may be the better choice for you.
In terms of feel, both switches offer a smooth typing experience. The Ink Red is known for its silky feel, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. It also has a mild characteristic, offering a more gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Additionally, it has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the WS Aurora Clear also has a buttery feel, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Like the Ink Red, it has a mild characteristic and a polished finish, enhancing the overall typing sensation.
Taking all the information into account, the Ink Red and WS Aurora Clear switches differ slightly in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a switch with a lower actuation force, a slightly chirpy sound, and a silky feel, the Ink Red is the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a higher-pitched sound and a buttery feel, the WS Aurora Clear would be a great option. While there may be some differences, both switches provide a smooth typing experience and are suitable for most users. Therefore, if you choose either switch, you can expect similar satisfying results in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you prefer a lighter typing style and a switch with a lower actuation force, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch would be an excellent choice. These switches are satisfyingly smooth and have a crispy and clacky sound profile, making typing effortless. Additionally, the Ink Reds are described as having a neutral or chirpy sound profile, which makes them suitable for various purposes and preferences.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and high-pitched typing experience with maximum RGB lighting customization, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch is the way to go. These switches have a transparent polycarbonate top housing and UHMWPE bottom housing, allowing for impressive lighting effects. The POM stem is lightly lubed, ensuring minimal friction and a satisfyingly smooth keystroke. With a high-pitched sound profile, the WS Aurora Clear offers a sharp and crisp sound when pressed.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Red and Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches boils down to personal preference. If you prefer a lighter typing style and a switch with a lower actuation force, the Ink Reds would suit you well. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth typing experience with a high-pitched sound and customizable lighting, the WS Aurora Clear switches would be an excellent fit. Consider your typing preferences, desired sound profile, and lighting customization options when making your decision.
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