Gateron Ink Yellow vs. Jerrzi Poseidon
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Jerrzi Poseidon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Jerrzi Poseidon mechanical keyboard switches, it is important to note that both are linear switches offering a smooth keystroke without tactile feedback. The Ink Yellow stands out for its shorter travel distance, making it ideal for users seeking a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. Known for its smoothness and satisfying clackiness, this switch is categorized as neutral, clacky, mild, and polished. On the other hand, the Poseidon switch lacks specific standout features but offers a straightforward linear typing experience. While the Ink Yellow may be preferred for its unique characteristics, the Poseidon may appeal to those looking for a simple and consistent switch option. However, let's delve deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Jerrzi Poseidon differ in terms of sound profile and feel. The Ink Yellow's proprietary INK blend top housing is known for its relatively high-pitched and clacky sound, providing a satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the Poseidon's POM top housing offers a deeper and more muted sound, creating a unique vibe. These distinctive sound profiles cater to different preferences, with the Ink Yellow leaning towards a sharper sound while the Poseidon provides a deeper tone.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the two switches also showcase differences in sound and feel. The Ink Yellow's proprietary INK blend bottom housing echoes the characteristics of its top housing, emphasizing a thin and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Poseidon's POM bottom housing contributes to a more subdued and deep sound, enhancing the typing experience with a quieter touch. This distinction in bottom housing materials again highlights the varying preferences of users, with the Ink Yellow focusing on a sharper sound and the Poseidon delivering a more muted tone.
Overall, while the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Jerrzi Poseidon utilize different housing materials for their top and bottom components, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience through their unique sound profiles. The Ink Yellow's INK blend housing offers a pointed and clacky sound, catering to those who prefer a sharper typing feel. In contrast, the Poseidon's POM housing produces a deeper and more muted sound, appealing to users looking for a quieter typing experience. Despite the differences in sound profiles, both switches ultimately offer a high-quality typing experience tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams. The bottom out force for the Ink Yellow is also heavier at 67 grams, while the bottom out force for the Poseidon is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Poseidon switch, as it requires less force to actuate, making it easier on the fingers during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Ink Yellow switch may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing experience. In general, the comparison between these two switches shows a clear distinction in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences for typing feel.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Ink Yellow and Jerrzi Poseidon linear switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0mm standard. The Ink Yellow has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5mm, while the Poseidon has a slightly shorter distance of 3.4mm. This makes the Poseidon the shorter option for those seeking a quicker response time, while the Ink Yellow offers a slightly deeper key press. Ultimately, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal and both will provide a similar typing experience in terms of key travel. It ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of how much key depth you prefer in your 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 Jerrzi Poseidon has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Poseidon for $3.59.
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. This means that you can expect a moderate actuation force requirement with a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, information about the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch sound profile is unknown. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch is influenced by factors like the keyboard's build and keycaps.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch provides a mild and polished typing experience. This translates to a gentle typing feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, details about the Jerrzi Poseidon switch's tactile feedback are not available. If the Poseidon switch has similar qualities to the Ink Yellow, one can expect a comfortable and refined typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Yellow and Jerrzi Poseidon switches offer distinct sound and feel profiles. If looking for a switch with a shorter travel distance and a mix of laptop and mechanical keyboard typing experience, the Gateron Ink Yellow may be the preferred choice. However, for those who are interested in the Jerrzi Poseidon switch and based on the available information, it may provide a typing experience that is either comparable or differs in its own unique way. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, typing experience, sound profile, and key feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smoother, clackier typing experience similar to a laptop keyboard, the Ink Yellow may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if the bottom out force is not a major factor for you and you prefer a different sound and feel that is not specified here, you may want to explore the Poseidon as an alternative option. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
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