Gateron Ink Yellow vs. Cherry MX Purple RGB
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between options that cater to different preferences and styles. The Gateron Ink Yellow switch stands out as an ideal choice for those seeking a typing experience that strikes a balance between the soft touch of a laptop and the traditional feel of a mechanical keyboard. Known for its shorter travel distance, the Ink Yellow switch delivers a smooth, clacky sound that many users find pleasantly engaging. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch offers a distinct tactile experience characterized by a medium-strength bump, making it a favorite among those who appreciate a more pronounced feedback during typing. Developed alongside keyboard enthusiast Glarses, this switch is designed for users who enjoy a refined typing sensation. While both switches have their unique advantages—smoothness and clackiness in the Gateron Ink Yellow versus a tactile response in the Cherry MX Purple RGB—it’s essential to dive deeper beyond these generalities to ensure you select the switch that perfectly suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
45g
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
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Yellow and Cherry MX Purple RGB switches, it becomes evident that they employ different materials, which results in distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Gateron Ink Yellow switches use a proprietary INK blend for both their top and bottom housings, contributing to a sound that is pointed and high-pitched, frequently described as clacky. This sound signature is largely due to the unique characteristics of the INK blend, which lends itself to a more pronounced and crisp auditory feedback when typing. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB utilizes nylon for its top and bottom housings, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound compared to Gateron’s INK blend, producing a sound that is duller and rounder. This disparity in material fundamentally alters the auditory experience of each switch type.
The differences in the housing materials impact not only the sound but also the overall typing experience. The INK blend in the Gateron Ink Yellow switches maintains a consistent high-pitched sound from both the top and bottom housings, giving users a lively typing experience that feels responsive. Conversely, the nylon material used in the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches introduces a plush quality to the keystrokes, particularly noticeable when bottoming out. Since the bottom housing contributes more to the bottom-out sound and feel, the nylon’s sound-absorbing properties result in a satisfying, muted feedback that many typists may prefer. Thus, while both switches have unique attributes, each leverages its housing material to create specific auditory and tactile characteristics.
Although both switch designs produce different sound profiles due to their varying materials, some typists may find similar satisfaction in both. If a user is accustomed to the more clacky nature of the Gateron Ink Yellow, they may find that the softer auditory experience of the Cherry MX Purple RGB offers a different kind of enjoyment without sacrificing performance. Additionally, both switches are engineered to reduce excessive rattling or unwanted noise, ensuring a pleasant experience overall. Therefore, even with contrasting materials, enthusiasts can achieve a certain level of satisfaction and performance with either switch, depending on their personal preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch to the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch, differences in actuation and bottom out forces become evident. The Ink Yellow features an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, classifying it as medium-heavy and appealing to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB has a lighter actuation force of only 45 grams, which makes it better suited for those seeking a lighter feel for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out force for the Cherry MX Purple RGB remains unknown, leaving some uncertainty regarding its overall resistance when fully depressed. Overall, the Gateron Ink Yellow requires more effort to actuate and bottom out than the Cherry MX Purple RGB, making it the heavier option, ideal for users who enjoy a firmer keystroke.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This indicates that the Ink Yellow switch provides a shorter travel distance, which can enhance responsiveness and speed, making it a potentially better choice for gamers seeking quicker key activation. In contrast, the MX Purple, with its more traditional 4 mm travel distance, offers a deeper feel that some users may prefer for a more tactile and substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on individual preferences for key actuation feedback; those favoring a snappier response might gravitate towards the Ink Yellow, whereas those who enjoy a cozier actuation might find the Cherry MX Purple more appealing.
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 Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
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 Yellow linear switch is notable for its clacky acoustic profile, delivering a crisp and percussive sound when pressed. This makes it enjoyable for users who appreciate auditory feedback while typing, offering an engaging experience that can enhance the overall enjoyment of using the switch. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch doesn't have specific sound characteristics outlined in the provided information, but generally, Cherry MX switches are known for having a more muted sound profile compared to clacky alternatives. Given these differences, users who prefer a more exciting audio feedback might lean towards the Ink Yellow, while those valuing a quieter typing experience may find the Cherry MX more suitable.
In terms of feel, the Ink Yellow switch provides a mild tactile experience combined with a polished finish. This results in a typing sensation that is approachable and smooth, appealing to a wide range of users, from beginners to seasoned typists who appreciate a balanced touch without overwhelming force. Meanwhile, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch features a medium-strength tactile bump, enhancing the typing experience with a noticeable feedback that is engaging but not overly pronounced. Thus, while both switches offer comfortable experiences, the Ink Yellow lends itself to a more refined smoothness, whereas the MX Purple enhances tactile feedback, making them distinct yet both satisfying choices depending on personal preference.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches hinges on priorities related to sound and feel. The Ink Yellow excels in delivering an engaging, clackier sound and a smooth typing experience, making it ideal for those who enjoy auditory feedback and a gently polished feel. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Purple RGB offers a satisfying tactile response with its distinct bump, catering to users who prefer noticeable tactile feedback without that clackiness. Ultimately, both switches can provide enjoyable typing experiences, yet their differences cater to different preferences, ensuring there's a solid option available for various typing styles.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch, your personal preferences and typing habits will greatly influence your choice. If you prioritize a smooth and relatively faster keypress with a clacky sound, the Ink Yellow switch would be a great fit. Its medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams and polished feel make it well-suited for those who appreciate a typing experience akin to both a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard, ideal for quick typing and casual use. On the other hand, if you enjoy a tactile feel with a defined bump and prefer slower, more deliberate keypresses, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch might be your go-to choice. This switch offers a refined tactile experience that is perfect for users who appreciate feedback during their typing sessions. Ultimately, your decision boils down to whether you seek a smoother and quicker linear switch or a tactile one that offers more pronounced feedback; both switches cater to different typing experiences, so consider what will make your typing experience the most enjoyable and effective for you.
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