Gateron Ink Yellow vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Outemu Tom offer distinct typing experiences. The Ink Yellow is a linear switch with a shorter travel, providing a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. Known for its smoothness and clackiness, this switch is recommended for those looking for a 'Neutral', 'Clacky', 'Mild', and 'Polished' feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom is a tactile switch that lacks a specific standout feature. While the Tom's characteristics are not clearly defined, it offers a different typing experience compared to the Ink Yellow. If you're looking for a switch with a unique feel, the Tom might be worth considering. 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
55g
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
3.30 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 Tom, it is evident that they both offer unique sound profiles. The Ink Yellow's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a satisfying clacky sound, while the Tom's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. Both materials aim to enhance the overall typing experience by providing distinct auditory feedback. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the Tom switch allows for RGB lighting due to its translucency, adding an aesthetic element to the switch.
On the bottom housing side, the Ink Yellow's proprietary INK blend and the Tom's nylon offer different sound profiles as well. The INK blend bottom housing provides a higher-pitched and clacky sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the Tom switch produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The choice of housing material impacts the overall sound and feel of the switch, with nylon absorbing more sound for a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the INK blend.
Overall, the choice of housing material for a switch plays a significant role in the typing experience. Whether it's the top or bottom housing, both the Gateron Ink Yellow and Outemu Tom utilize different materials to create unique sound profiles. While the INK blend and polycarbonate offer sharp and crisp sounds, the nylon bottom housing of the Tom switch provides a deeper and fuller sound. Understanding the characteristics of each material can help users determine which switch best suits their preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, it is clear that the actuation force and bottom out force play significant roles in the typing experience. The Ink Yellow has a slightly heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Tom's 55 grams, making it slightly harder to trigger a keystroke on the Ink Yellow. However, the bottom out force of the Ink Yellow at 67 grams is higher than the unknown bottom out force of the Tom, potentially providing a more substantial typing feel on the Ink Yellow. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Tom may be a better option due to its lighter actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, we can see that the Ink Yellow has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Tom's 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances preferred by gamers for faster response times. The Ink Yellow may provide a slightly deeper press compared to the Tom, which could be preferable for those who enjoy a bit more feedback when typing or gaming. However, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance that can cater to those looking for a quick and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of the type of keypress feedback you prefer.
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 Tom 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for most users, providing a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound level. It also features a clacky sound, which is sharp and snappy, giving a crisp and bright sound when pressed. On the other hand, there is no specific information available regarding the sound qualities of the Outemu Tom tactile switch. When comparing these two switches, it is likely that the Ink Yellow will provide a more versatile sound experience given its neutral and clacky qualities.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Ink Yellow is described as offering a mild typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. This results in a gentle typing sensation that is approachable to most users, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This polished feel enhances the overall typing experience and makes it more enjoyable for long typing sessions. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available about the feel of the Outemu Tom tactile switch. However, based on the qualities of the Ink Yellow, it is likely that the Tom switch may not offer the same level of smoothness and refinement in feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch stands out for its neutral and clacky sound profiles, as well as its mild and polished feel. These qualities make it a versatile option for users looking for a balance between typing comfort and sound feedback. On the other hand, there is a lack of specific information available about the Outemu Tom tactile switch, making it difficult to directly compare the two switches. However, if a user is seeking a similar typing experience to the Gateron Ink Yellow, they may find it by opting for other switches with comparable qualities.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy linear switch with a shorter travel and a smooth, clacky typing experience similar to that of a laptop keyboard, the Gateron Ink Yellow would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with an unknown bottom out force and are looking for a unique typing experience, the Outemu Tom might be the switch for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference in terms of feel and sound. Choose the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences for a satisfying typing experience.
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