Gateron Ink Yellow vs. Outemu Green
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Outemu Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Outemu Green mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct differences to consider. The Ink Yellow is a linear switch with a shorter travel distance, making it a great option for those seeking a typing experience that falls between a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. Known for its smoothness and clackiness, this switch is perfect for users looking for a neutral, polished feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Green is a clicky switch with no specific standout feature. While it may not have a defining trait like the Ink Yellow, it offers a different typing experience altogether. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Standard
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Outemu Green, one major difference is that the Ink Yellow uses a proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housing, while the Green has a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The INK blend in the Yellow switch provides a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, described as clacky, while the polycarbonate top housing in the Green switch creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing in the Green switch elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the INK blend used in the Yellow switch.
In terms of aesthetics, the use of clear polycarbonate in the top housing of the Outemu Green switch allows for better RGB lighting effects, as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visibility of the lighting. In contrast, the INK blend top housing of the Gateron Ink Yellow does not offer the same level of transparence and may not showcase RGB lighting as effectively. However, both switches provide unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, with the INK blend in the Yellow switch offering a slightly less sharp sound compared to the polycarbonate and nylon combination in the Green switch.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Outemu Green switches will ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. While the Ink Yellow provides a clacky sound with its INK blend housing, the Green switch offers a crisper and sharper sound due to its polycarbonate top housing. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing in the Green switch contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience. Both switches have their own unique qualities, but ultimately deliver satisfying typing experiences based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, there are noticeable differences. The Gateron Ink Yellow has a lighter actuation force of 60 grams, while the Outemu Green requires a heavier 65 grams to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Ink Yellow is 67 grams, which is lighter than the 80 grams needed for the Outemu Green. This means that the Ink Yellow switch offers a lighter typing experience compared to the heavier feel of the Outemu Green switch. For those who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the Outemu Green would be the better choice, while those who like a lighter touch may favor the Gateron Ink Yellow. Overall, the weight of the actuation and bottom out forces plays a significant role in determining the typing experience and comfort level for users.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Green clicky switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Ink Yellow falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Green offers a slightly more substantial depth, which may be preferred by those looking for a more tactile typing experience. Both switches provide a different feel due to their varying travel distances, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences for typing or gaming. Ultimately, whether you prefer the shorter distance of the Ink Yellow or the longer distance of the Green, each switch offers a unique typing experience that caters to different needs.
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 Green 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 switch offers a neutral and clacky experience. This means that the switch has a moderate actuation force requirement and produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Green switch's sound qualities are unknown. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
When looking at feel, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch provides a mild and polished typing experience. This translates to a gentle typing sensation with a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the feel of the Outemu Green switch is unspecified. If one is seeking a typing experience that falls between a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard, the Gateron Ink Yellow serves as a suitable choice due to its smoothness and clackiness, while still offering a comfortable and approachable feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Yellow and Outemu Green switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gateron Ink Yellow boasts a neutral and clacky sound profile, along with a mild and polished typing feel. On the other hand, the specifics of the Outemu Green switch remain unknown. For those seeking a typing experience that balances smoothness and clackiness, the Gateron Ink Yellow serves as a versatile option. Remember to consider other factors such as the keyboard's build and keycaps when determining the final sound and feel of a switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, it's important to consider your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience similar to that on a laptop but with a bit of clackiness, the Gateron Ink Yellow would be an excellent choice due to its medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams. On the other hand, if you enjoy a heavy and clicky typing experience with a bit more tactile feedback, the Outemu Green with its heavy bottom out force of 80 grams might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style.
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