Gateron Ink Yellow vs. Cherry MX Red

Overview

When comparing the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Cherry MX Red mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both offer unique characteristics to consider. The Gateron Ink Yellow is a linear switch that provides a shorter travel distance, appealing to those seeking a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. Known for its smoothness and clackiness, this switch offers a pleasant feel and is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Clacky', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red is also a linear switch but is renowned for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, delivering a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. Categorized as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured', the MX Red offers a distinct typing feel compared to the Gateron Ink Yellow. 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

Cherry MX Red Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

$5.90

$4.00 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing material of the Gateron Ink Yellow, the proprietary INK blend, provides a unique and satisfying clacky sound profile that is relatively high-pitched but not overly sharp. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer plastic which absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Both switches offer distinct sound characteristics based on their respective housing materials, with the Ink Yellow producing a thinner and higher-pitched sound compared to the MX Red.

In terms of bottom housing, the Gateron Ink Yellow's proprietary INK blend offers a similar pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile as its top housing. This creates a cohesive sound experience throughout the keystroke. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red's nylon bottom housing contributes to the deeper and fuller sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience with a rounder and less sharp bottom-out sound. While both switches have different bottom housing materials, they both aim to provide a satisfying typing sound that complements the overall feel of the switch.

Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Cherry MX Red play a crucial role in shaping the sound profile and feel of these switches. The INK blend used in the Ink Yellow creates a distinct clacky sound that is slightly higher-pitched, while the nylon material in the MX Red results in a fuller and deeper sound profile. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, both switches are designed to offer a satisfying typing experience with unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences. Whether it's the pointy and high-pitched sound of the Ink Yellow or the deeper and fuller sound of the MX Red, both switches deliver a premium typing experience that enthusiasts can appreciate.

Weight

In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, it is evident that the Ink Yellow requires a heavier touch compared to the MX Red. The actuation force of the Ink Yellow is 60 grams, while the MX Red is lighter at 45 grams. The bottom out force of the Ink Yellow is also heavier at 67 grams, whereas the MX Red's bottom out force is unknown. For those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Gateron Ink Yellow would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming may find the Cherry MX Red more suitable. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on one's personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, it is evident that the Ink Yellow has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the MX Red's 4 mm distance. The difference may seem minimal, but it can have a significant impact on the overall typing or gaming experience. The shorter travel distance of the Ink Yellow can provide faster response times, making it a preferred option for gamers who value quick key presses. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the MX Red may offer a more substantial feel when pressing the keys, which can be preferred by those who appreciate a deeper keypress sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing/gaming style.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Its clacky nature provides a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, adding a crisp and bright auditory element to typing. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red linear switch produces a thocky, low-pitched sound that feels deeper and more satisfying in comparison. The MX Red offers a richer sound profile with a bass-heavy and mellow tone, providing a more robust auditory experience. Ultimately, the sound of both switches is influenced by various factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.

In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch offers a mild typing experience with a polished finish that enhances smoothness and reduces friction. This results in a sleek and refined typing feel that most users will find comfortable and approachable. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red linear switch is described as textured, meaning it may have noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may prefer this slight texture for added tactile feedback, while others may prefer a smoother typing experience without as much resistance.

Considering all the available information, both the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Ink Yellow provides a neutral and clacky sound with a mild and polished feel, the MX Red offers a thocky, low-pitched sound with a textured feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile, tactile feedback, and typing experience desired. Whether you prefer a smoother, more refined feel or a slightly textured, more pronounced typing experience, both switches can provide satisfying results based on your individual preferences.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a shorter travel distance, the Gateron 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 an unknown bottom out force, that offers a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, the Cherry MX Red switch might be more suitable, providing a robust typing experience with a thocky and low-pitched sound. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Yellow Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn more

Cherry MX Red Linear

$5.90

$4.00 per 10

Learn more