Gateron Ink Yellow vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Outemu Blue. The Gateron Ink Yellow is a linear switch with a shorter travel, offering a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. Known for its smoothness and clacky feel, this switch is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Clacky', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue is a clicky switch with no specific standout feature. While each switch has its own unique qualities, determining which one is best for you ultimately depends 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
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Outemu Blue switches, it is clear that they have different characteristics. The Ink Yellow features a proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue switch uses polycarbonate for the top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing is also aesthetically pleasing for RGB lighting, as it is translucent and allows for vibrant colors to shine through.
Furthermore, the differences between the bottom housing materials of the Ink Yellow and the Blue switches also play a role in the overall sound profile. The Ink Yellow's bottom housing, made of the proprietary INK blend, contributes to the thin and higher-pitched sound profile of the switch. In contrast, the Blue switch utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is characterized by a duller and rounder sound. The choice of housing material for the bottom of the switch can significantly impact the sound and feel of the switch when pressed down.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Yellow and Outemu Blue switches showcase how different materials can influence the sound profile and typing experience of a mechanical keyboard switch. While the INK blend in the Ink Yellow provides a distinct clacky sound, the polycarbonate in the Outemu Blue creates a sharper and crisper sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Blue switch offers a deeper and fuller sound compared to the high-pitched profile of the INK blend in the Ink Yellow. Understanding the properties of each housing material is crucial for choosing the right switch that aligns with your preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch is on the heavier side compared to the Outemu Blue clicky switch. The Ink Yellow requires an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, while the Blue has an actuation force of 50 grams with an unknown bottom out force. This makes the Blue switch lighter in terms of actuation force. The Ink Yellow provides a more substantial typing experience with its medium-heavy force, making it ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Blue switch would be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Both switches provide different experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences for typing and gaming.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it is apparent that the Ink Yellow has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Blue has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Ink Yellow has a shorter travel distance compared to the Outemu Blue. The difference may seem minimal, but it can impact the typing experience significantly. Gamers might appreciate the Ink Yellow's shorter travel distance for quicker response times, while those looking for a more traditional typing feel might prefer the longer travel distance of the Outemu Blue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 offers a neutral and clacky typing experience. The neutral aspect provides a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile suitable for various settings, making it a versatile option for both beginners and advanced users. The clacky characteristic of this switch delivers a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, adding a crisp and bright element to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch lacks specific descriptors for sound qualities, indicating an unknown sound profile. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors like the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. The mild characteristic of this switch provides a gentle typing feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics, making it approachable for most users. The polished aspect indicates a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, the Outemu Blue switch does not have any specific descriptors for feel qualities, leaving its tactile feedback and overall typing experience unknown.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch stands out for its neutral and clacky sound profile, as well as its mild and polished feel. It offers a balance between typing experience found on laptops and standard mechanical keyboards, making it a popular choice for users seeking a smooth and clacky typing feel. While the Outemu Blue clicky switch lacks specific information on sound and feel qualities, it is important to consider individual preferences and the overall keyboard setup when choosing between these two switches to ensure the best typing experience based on personal preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth, clacky typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch would be a great choice for you. This switch offers a pleasant balance between a laptop and standard mechanical keyboard feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a lighter bottom out force and are not concerned about sound and feel descriptors, the Outemu Blue clicky switch may be the better option for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference for typing feel and sound.
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