Gateron Ink Yellow vs. Bsun Kiki Red

Overview

When looking at the Gateron Ink Yellow and the BSUN Kiki Red mechanical keyboard switches, it is important to consider the unique characteristics that each switch offers. The Ink Yellow is a linear switch with a shorter travel distance, providing a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. Known for its smoothness and clackiness, this switch is ideal for those who appreciate a neutral and polished typing feel. On the other hand, the Kiki Red linear switch from BSUN offers a finely-tuned typing experience with a high-pitched, clacky nuance that is not overly loud. With features such as all-POM housings and Ly stems for smooth actuation, these switches are perfect for enthusiasts who value subtlety in auditory feedback and finesse in performance. 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 Yellow Linear

Bsun Kiki Red Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

$4.70

$3.83 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Bsun Kiki Red both offer unique sound profiles that contribute to the overall typing experience. The Ink Yellow's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a pointed and high-pitched sound that is described as clacky, while the Kiki Red's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly influence the typing experience for users who prefer a specific type of sound feedback.

Similarly, the bottom housing materials of the Ink Yellow and Kiki Red switches also play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the keystrokes. The INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Yellow switch delivers a thin and higher-pitched sound, contributing to its clacky sound profile. In contrast, the POM bottom housing of the Kiki Red switch creates a more muted and deeper sound. These differences in sound profiles between the bottom housings can affect the overall typing experience and user preference.

Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Gateron Ink Yellow and Bsun Kiki Red switches result in distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. While the Ink Yellow switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound with its proprietary INK blend housing, the Kiki Red switch provides a deeper and more muted sound with its POM housing. Users looking for a specific sound feedback experience can choose between these switches based on their individual preferences.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch to the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch, it is evident that they have significant differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Ink Yellow has a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, while the Kiki Red has a lower actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Ink Yellow provides a medium-heavy typing experience, requiring a more substantial push, while the Kiki Red offers a lighter touch, making it easier to type for longer periods without fatigue. The weight difference between the two switches makes the Ink Yellow a heavier option and the Kiki Red a lighter option, catering to different preferences in typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether you prefer a lighter or heavier typing experience.

Travel distance

The Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Although the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, with the Kiki Red being slightly longer, the shorter travel distance of the Ink Yellow may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. The 0.1 mm variation in travel distance may not be significant for most users, as both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular in the market. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of the feel and response during typing or gaming.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, both the Gateron Ink Yellow and Bsun Kiki Red linear switches are described as having a clacky sound profile. This means that both switches produce a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, giving a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory feedback. While the specific sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, users can expect a similar clacky sound from both switches.

Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. This means that users can expect a more gentle typing feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics, with a smooth and refined finish resulting in a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the Bsun Kiki Red switch is described as creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press. This indicates that users can expect a smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal resistance, enhanced smoothness, responsiveness, and gentle key presses. While there are some differences in the feel of the switches, both provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.

Overall, while the Gateron Ink Yellow and Bsun Kiki Red linear switches may have some differences in their sound and feel characteristics, users can expect a satisfying typing experience from either switch. Whether you prefer a slightly shorter travel with a clacky sound profile or a finely-tuned typing experience with smooth and buttery key presses, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch or the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch, you should base your decision on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a shorter travel distance, the Ink Yellow may be the better choice for you, especially if you enjoy a smooth and clacky typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a lighter bottom out force and a finely-tuned, medium-light weighting for a subtly clacky typing experience, the Kiki Red may be more appealing to you. Additionally, if you are looking for a switch with a neutral sound profile and a mild, polished typing feel, the Ink Yellow could be a great option. Conversely, if you prefer a switch with a clacky sound profile and a creamy, frictionless, or snappy typing feel, the Kiki Red might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to your individual preferences and typing style.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Yellow Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Kiki Red Linear

$4.70

$3.83 per 10

Learn more