Gateron Ink Red vs. TTC Yunhai

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Ink Red and the TTC Yunhai are two linear options that cater to different typing preferences while both promising smooth, satisfying experiences. The Gateron Ink Red is renowned for its lighter actuation force and polished feel, making it ideal for users with a lighter typing style seeking a swift and airy touch. Its crispy, clacky sound profile adds a layer of auditory satisfaction that many typists appreciate. Conversely, the TTC Yunhai distinguishes itself through a deep, rounded sound profile, offering a unique typing experience that complements its incredibly light actuation force, making it a great choice for users who prefer a gentle, effortless feel. Both switches deliver impressive performance, but they appeal to different preferences in sound and tactile feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Red Linear

TTC Yunhai Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron Ink Red switch and the TTC Yunhai switch utilize distinctly different housing materials that significantly impact their auditory profiles. The Gateron Ink Red features a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housings, which are characterized by a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. This results in a clacky typing experience that is satisfying for many users. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai is constructed with nylon for its top and bottom housings, a material known for its softer properties. This softness leads to a deeper, fuller sound profile, effectively absorbing sound and creating a duller and rounder auditory experience. These fundamental differences in housing materials set the stage for contrasting sound profiles, with the Ink Red offering a sharper tone versus the Yunhai's more muted resonance.

Both switches also exhibit how the materials affect sound production. The Ink Red's INK blend allows for a more pronounced sound when both bottomed out and released, thanks to the characteristics of the material enhancing the higher frequencies. Conversely, the Yunhai, with its nylon housing, provides a deeper sound upon both pressing and releasing, likely resulting in a more subdued experience overall. This variance in sound output can influence user preference, with some favoring the clackiness of the Ink Red for tactile feedback, while others may prefer the rounded tone of the Yunhai for a quieter typing environment.

Despite these differences, the switches can evoke similar typing experiences due to the design and material choices made in their construction. If either housing type was harmed, the other type would amplify the resulting sound profile from the switch's mechanism. For example, while the Ink Red combines its proprietary blend throughout both housings to generate a clacky sound, the Yunhai’s nylon composition can still produce a range of sounds based on the keypress dynamics and its softer material. Ultimately, choosing between these switches largely hinges on user preference for specific sound profiles and tactile feedback, despite the underlying mechanical similarities they share.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, there are some notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gateron Ink Red boasts an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a more suitable option for those who prefer a softer touch, especially beneficial during long typing sessions or gaming marathons where fatigue matters. Therefore, if you're looking for a lighter switch that eases the strain during extended use, the Yunhai is the better choice. Conversely, if you favor a more substantial feel, the Ink Red's heavier actuation force might provide the satisfying push you're looking for. Overall, while both switches serve their purposes well, the Ink Red is heavier and might appeal to those who enjoy a firmer typing experience, whereas the Yunhai is lighter and offers a gentler press.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, a noticeable difference emerges. The Gateron Ink Red features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option, while the TTC Yunhai measures at 3.6 mm, signifying a shorter travel distance. This difference in travel distance can significantly affect user experience; the Ink Red's greater distance may provide a more substantial tactile feedback that some users find satisfying, especially those who prefer a more traditional and hearty depth when typing. On the other hand, the Yunhai's shorter travel distance appeals to gamers and those seeking quicker response times, aligning with the trend toward more responsive switches. Thus, if speed and quickness are your priorities, the TTC Yunhai would be the preferred choice, while those valuing deeper engagement might favor the Gateron Ink Red.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Gateron Ink Red linear switch offers a sound profile that can be characterized as both crispy and clacky, making it a delightful choice for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. This switch can also have a mildly chirpy quality, which sets it apart from many other linear switches. Its neutral sound makes it versatile enough for various environments, whether at home or in a professional setting. In contrast, while the TTC Yunhai linear switch is also known for being quiet, its sound profile is described as deep and rounded, providing a more subdued auditory experience. This difference suggests that typists seeking a gentle typing ambiance may prefer the Yunhai, whereas those who appreciate a more pronounced audio feedback might lean toward the Ink Red.

When it comes to feel, the Ink Red shines with its silky smoothness, promoting a typing experience that minimizes resistance. Its polished finish elevates the overall feel, making every keystroke feel refined and effortless. Additionally, the mild characteristics of the switch ensure an approachability that caters to various typing styles. On the other hand, the feel of the TTC Yunhai switch remains less documented, leaving a gap in understanding its tactile sensation. However, given its emphasis on a light actuation force, it can be surmised that the Yunhai also aims to deliver a smooth and gentle tactile experience akin to that of the Ink Red.

In conclusion, both the Gateron Ink Red and the TTC Yunhai linear switches cater to typists who favor light actuation forces, ensuring an effortless typing experience. The Ink Red offers a more pronounced sound that many might find enjoyable, coupled with its silky and polished feel, whereas the Yunhai switch could appeal to those who prefer a quieter and more rounded auditory profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will hinge on individual preferences regarding sound and tactile sensation, but both are designed to deliver a smooth and comfortable typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, choosing between the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch largely depends on your personal typing preferences and the context in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you have a lighter typing style and appreciate a medium bottoming-out force of 60 grams, the Ink Red would be an excellent choice, offering a smooth, polished typing experience that is both satisfying and versatile. Its unique chirpy sound profile can add a delightful auditory element to your typing, making it suitable for both home and office environments. On the other hand, if you favor an exceptionally light actuation force of just 50 grams and desire a typing experience that feels gentle and effortless, the Yunhai switch may be more appealing. Known for its deep, rounded sound, it excels in providing a uniquely calming auditory feedback while you type, perfect for those who prefer a quieter workspace or enjoy an understated typing experience. Ultimately, your choice should reflect how you engage with your keyboard—whether you prioritize a medium tactile response and a more versatile sound from the Ink Reds, or prefer the feather-light touch and soothing acoustics of the Yunhai switches.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Red Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn more

TTC Yunhai Linear

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

Learn more