Gateron Ink Yellow vs. Jerrzi Orange
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Jerrzi Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Jerrzi Orange both offer unique features to consider. The Gateron Ink Yellow is a linear switch known for its shorter travel distance, providing a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. This switch is praised for its smoothness and clackiness, making it a popular choice for those who value a polished feel while typing. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange stands out as a clacky linear option, offering a lightweight feel and delivering crisp, audible feedback with each keystroke. These switches are ideal for enthusiasts who enjoy a responsive and vibrant 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
60g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Jerrzi Orange, one key difference is the top housing material used. The Ink Yellow features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which is known for its pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials offer a satisfying sound, the INK blend leans towards a clacky sound while polycarbonate delivers a clearer and more resonant tone.
Another point of comparison is the bottom housing material of the switches. The Gateron Ink Yellow boasts a proprietary INK blend bottom housing, which again contributes to its pointed and high-pitched sound profile. In contrast, the Jerrzi Orange features a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder tone compared to the stiffer INK blend. This results in a different typing experience for users of each switch.
Despite these differences, it is important to note that the qualities of the housing materials ultimately impact the overall sound profile of the switches. Whether it is the top or bottom housing material, each contributes to the typing experience in its own way. While the INK blend and polycarbonate offer distinct sound characteristics, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and feel when using switches with different housing materials for the top and bottom. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Jerrzi Orange will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Jerrzi Orange linear switch which has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Ink Yellow switch is 67 grams, which is higher than the unknown bottom out force of the Orange switch. The difference in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches results in a slightly lighter typing experience with the Orange switch and a more substantial feel with the Ink Yellow switch. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Jerrzi Orange switch may be more suitable, while individuals looking for a more defined keystroke may lean towards the Gateron Ink Yellow switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Jerrzi Orange linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter travel distance range, making them ideal for those looking for faster response times, particularly gamers. The difference of 0.2 mm between the two switches may not be significant for most users, as they both offer relatively short travel distances compared to more traditional switches. Ultimately, the decision between the two would likely come down to personal preference in terms of how much depth and responsiveness one prefers in a switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Yellow 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 Yellow for $7.35.
The Jerrzi Orange has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $2.30.
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 comparing the sound of the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Jerrzi Orange linear switches, the Ink Yellow provides a more neutral and clacky sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange offers a subdued clacky sound, providing a more subtle and dampened typing experience. Both switches offer a satisfying auditory feedback, with the Ink Yellow being slightly sharper and percussive, while the Orange leans towards a more gentle and subdued tone.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Ink Yellow offers a mild and polished typing experience, with smooth key travel and reduced friction for a sleek typing feel. In contrast, the Jerrzi Orange switch provides a feathery and easy-to-press sensation, requiring minimal exertion from your fingers and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches offer a comfortable and responsive typing experience, with the Ink Yellow being more polished and refined in its feel, while the Orange focuses on providing a light and effortless typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Jerrzi Orange linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Yellow provides a neutral and clacky sound with a mild and polished typing feel, making it a versatile option suitable for various users. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange offers a subdued clacky sound with a feathery and easy-to-press feel, ideal for those who prefer a light and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience that each user is looking for.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Jerrzi Orange linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth, clacky typing experience that falls between a laptop and standard mechanical keyboard, the Ink Yellow may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clacky, lightweight switch with a vibrant and responsive feel, the Jerrzi Orange switch could be your ideal match. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so make sure to choose the one that aligns with your typing style and preferences.
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