Gateron Ink Yellow vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Cherry MX Speed Silver, both linear switches. The Gateron Ink Yellow is praised for its shorter travel distance, offering a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. Known for its smooth and clacky feel, this switch is ideal for those seeking a polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is renowned for its rapid response time, thanks to its linear action and low spring resistance. Popular among gamers for its instant triggering capability, this switch is perfect for situations where split-second decisions can make all the difference. 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
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches have unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profile. The Gateron Ink Yellow features a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a relatively high-pitched and clacky sound, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver utilizes a nylon top housing that creates a deeper and fuller sound. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly impact the typing experience for users, with the Gateron switch providing a sharper sound compared to the Cherry MX switch's more rounded tone.
In terms of bottom housing material, the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches again differ in their sound profiles. The Gateron switch's proprietary INK blend bottom housing contributes to its high-pitched and clacky sound, while the Cherry MX switch's nylon bottom housing adds depth and fullness to its sound profile. This difference in sound can affect how the switches feel and sound when pressed, with the Gateron switch offering a thinner and more pointed sound compared to the Cherry MX switch's rounder and fuller tone.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches play a crucial role in shaping their sound and feel. While the Gateron switch's proprietary INK blend creates a more pointed and higher-pitched sound, the Cherry MX switch's nylon housing produces a deeper and fuller tone. Despite these differences, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a clacky and sharp sound or a rounder and fuller tone, both switches deliver excellent performance with their distinct housing materials.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Cherry MX Speed Silver's lighter 30 grams. The bottom out force of the Gateron switch is also heavier at 67 grams, while the force for the MX Speed Silver is unknown. This means that the Gateron switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a greater push feel, while the Cherry MX switch offers a lighter touch ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. Both switches have their advantages depending on personal preference. Some may prefer the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron switch for a more tactile typing experience, while others may favor the lighter touch of the Cherry MX switch for long-term comfort. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual typing preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch is 3.5 mm, slightly longer than the 3.4 mm travel distance of the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch. Both switches offer a shorter travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, making them ideal for gamers seeking faster response times. Gamers who prefer a more responsive key press may opt for the MX Speed Silver, while those who prefer a slightly more substantial key press may lean towards the Ink Yellow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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 switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for various purposes. It also produces a clacky sound that is sharp and percussive, adding a satisfying auditory experience to typing. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch provides a thocky sound with a deep and rich tone, characteristic of its low-pitched nature. This results in a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to higher-pitched switches, enhancing the overall typing experience. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is subjective and can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, providing a gentle feel that is approachable to most users. The smooth and refined finish of the switch reduces friction and offers a sleek key travel, enhancing the overall typing comfort. On the contrary, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is described as textured, indicating noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may prefer this subtle texture for added feedback, while others may prefer a smoother and friction-free typing experience. Both switches offer unique feel characteristics that cater to different preferences.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch each offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Ink Yellow switch excels in providing a clacky sound and a mild, polished feel, while the MX Speed Silver switch offers a thocky sound and a textured feel. Choosing between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and intended use, as both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience depending on individual preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you are looking for. If you prefer a switch with a shorter travel distance and a smooth, clacky feel, the Gateron Ink Yellow may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and instant response, especially for gaming, the Cherry MX Speed Silver with its rapid linear action might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and intended usage to ensure the best typing experience possible.
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