Gateron Ink Yellow vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Cherry MX Silent Red mechanical keyboard switches, several key differences stand out. The Gateron Ink Yellow is a linear switch known for its shorter travel distance, offering a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. It is praised for its smoothness and clackiness, making it a popular choice for those seeking a balance between speed and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red is also a linear switch but is specifically designed to operate silently, making it perfect for those in noise-sensitive environments. Despite its quiet operation, it still maintains the satisfying typing experience and slightly heftier feel of the classic MX Red switch. While these general characteristics are helpful in determining which switch may be best for you, it's essential to further explore the nuances of each switch to make an informed decision based on your specific preferences and needs. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Both the Gateron Ink Yellow and Cherry MX Silent Red switches feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. While the Ink Yellow utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housings, the Silent Red switches employ nylon for their top and bottom housings. The INK blend in the Gateron switches is known for producing a relatively high-pitched and clacky sound, while the nylon material in the Cherry MX switches creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. This contrast in sound characteristics can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users of these switches.
Additionally, the difference in housing materials between the Gateron Ink Yellow and Cherry MX Silent Red switches extends to their tactile feel as well. The softer nature of nylon in the MX Silent Red switches absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound upon keypress. In comparison, the INK blend in the Gateron switches offers a more pointed and higher-pitched tactile feedback, giving users a distinct sensation when typing. These differing tactile experiences can cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, with some favoring the softer feel of nylon while others prefer the sharper feedback of the INK blend.
Despite the variations in housing materials between the Gateron Ink Yellow and Cherry MX Silent Red switches, both offer a satisfying typing experience with their unique sound profiles. While the INK blend in the Gateron switches provides a clacky and higher-pitched sound, the nylon material in the MX Silent Red switches offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. Whether you prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback or a softer typing experience, both switches cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to individual preferences regarding sound, feel, and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, it is evident that the MX Silent Red is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams, whereas the Ink Yellow is the heavier option with an actuation force of 60 grams. The bottom out force of the Ink Yellow is 67 grams, giving it a medium-heavy feel, while the bottom out force of the MX Silent Red is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may prefer the MX Silent Red due to its lower actuation force, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the heavier actuation force of the Ink Yellow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the Cherry MX Silent Red has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Gateron Ink Yellow. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for quicker response times. However, the difference of 0.2 mm between the two switches may not be noticeable to all users. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of the feel and response desired.
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 Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a clacky characteristic, providing a moderate actuation force requirement and a sharp, crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch produces a muted, thocky, low-pitched sound, significantly quieter than the standard switch, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. Both switches will give you a satisfying typing experience, but the Ink Yellow will offer a slightly louder and crisper sound compared to the silent operation of the MX Silent Red.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle and refined feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the contrary, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch is described as textured, meaning it may have noticeable friction when pressed. This difference in feel showcases the Ink Yellow as a smoother and more refined option compared to the potentially slightly rougher feel of the MX Silent Red.
Overall, if you prefer a slightly louder and crisper sound with a smoother feel, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch would be the way to go. However, if silent operation and reduced friction are more important to you, then the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch would suit your preferences better. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique characteristics, so you can expect a satisfying typing experience with either choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, consider your priorities in terms of typing experience and noise level. If you value a typing experience that is smooth and clacky with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Ink Yellow may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heftier feel with a silent operation and a significantly quieter sound profile, the MX Silent Red is worth considering. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
