Gateron Ink Yellow vs. HMX SU

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Ink Yellow and HMX SU linear switches offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Ink Yellow is renowned for its unique short travel, striking a perfect balance between the tactile feedback of a traditional mechanical keyboard and the more subtle feel of a laptop keyboard. This switch is characterized by a neutral yet mildly clacky sound profile, making it ideal for those who appreciate a smoother typing experience without sacrificing auditory enjoyment. On the other hand, the HMX SU switch stands out with its full PA12 housing and a T5 stem, delivering a deeper and subtler sound that can provide a more refined ambience for typists seeking a less intrusive auditory experience. While both switches are linear and offer smooth operation, they cater to different typing styles and preferences in terms of sound profile and travel distance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Yellow Linear

HMX SU Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Yellow and HMX SU switches, distinct differences emerge that influence their sound profiles and overall typing experiences. The Ink Yellow's proprietary INK blend top housing produces a distinctive higher-pitched sound, characterized by a "clacky" profile that many users appreciate for its satisfying auditory feedback. This proprietary material is designed to enhance the sound produced during key releases, making it particularly appealing for those who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic experience. In contrast, the HMX SU's nylon top housing offers a different auditory quality. Nylon, being a softer plastic, results in a deeper and fuller sound profile that tends to absorb more sound, creating a more rounded acoustic experience. Consequently, this shift in housing materials reflects a divergence in user experience, appealing to different preferences for auditory feedback while typing.

The bottom housings of these switches also exhibit notable differences that further distinguish their performance. The Gateron Ink Yellow utilizes the same proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, which reinforces its high-pitched, clacky characteristics. This material ensures that the bottom-out sound remains sharp and pronounced, catering to users who enjoy tactile feedback in their keystrokes. Conversely, the HMX SU's nylon bottom housing again introduces a softer, more muted sound profile, which can enhance a quieter typing experience. This difference in bottom housing materials is pivotal, as it primarily affects the feel and sound when the key is fully depressed, illustrating how sound characteristics are influenced by both the top and bottom housings.

Despite these differences, both switches can produce compelling typing experiences with unique sound profiles. If a user is drawn to the Ink Yellow for its peak sharpness and clacky sound, they might experience a similar height of auditory feedback when sampling the HMX SU—though it will inherently be less pronounced due to the softer nylon materials. Someone looking for a balanced transition might find that typists can adjust their typing technique to exploit the characteristics of both switch types effectively. In this regard, understanding the contributions of each housing material allows users to tailor their preferences and achieve satisfying results, regardless of the specific switch design.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, there are notable differences. The Ink Yellow has a medium-heavy actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, appealing to users who favor a softer touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. As such, while both switches come with their respective actuation and bottom out forces, the Ink Yellow is heavier, providing a sturdier feel, whereas the HMX SU is lighter, catering to those who enjoy a more effortless keystroke.

Travel distance

Comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch reveals a slight discrepancy, with the Ink Yellow measuring 3.5 mm and the SU at 3.6 mm. This makes the Ink Yellow the shorter option between the two. While both switches are relatively close in distance, this 0.1 mm difference means that users of the Ink Yellow may experience a slightly quicker response time, aligning with gamer preferences for shorter travel distances. Conversely, the HMX SU, with its longer travel distance, may offer a more pronounced keystroke feel, appealing to those who favor a more substantial depth while typing. Therefore, depending on personal preference for responsiveness or depth, the choice between these two switches can significantly impact the overall typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch offers a unique auditory experience by combining a neutral and clacky profile. It delivers a balanced level of sound, making it suitable for various environments, whether at home or work. The sharp and percussive quality of the clacky nature adds an enjoyable snap when the keys are pressed, creating a more engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX SU linear switch is characterized by a relatively deep sound profile, which can create a subtle ambiance during typing. While the specifics of the SU's sound profile are not extensively detailed, it contrasts with the Ink Yellow's clackiness by leaning towards a softer and arguably more muted auditory experience.

When examining the feel of each switch, the Ink Yellow shines with its mild and polished characteristics. The mildness provides a more gentle typing experience, easily approachable for beginners and advanced users alike. The polish reflects a smooth and refined key travel, likely due to quality materials or factory lubing, contributing to an overall comfortable experience. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch has not been extensively detailed regarding its feel, leading to an unknown comparison in this aspect. Therefore, it is difficult to determine how the SU would stack against the Ink Yellow's smooth and user-friendly characteristics.

Overall, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch distinctively stands out with its engaging sound profile and refined smoothness, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a balanced typing experience. The HMX SU linear switch, while also appealing in its subtle sound, lacks detailed information on its feel, leaving some uncertainty. For users who prioritize a clacky auditory feedback with a smooth touch, the Ink Yellow would likely fulfill their desires, while those who appreciate deeper, muted sounds may find the SU appealing as well. Ultimately, both switches will cater to different preferences, inviting users to explore the qualities that align best with their typing style.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch largely hinges on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound, as well as your intended use. If you favor a typing experience that blends elements of both a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard, the Ink Yellow is an excellent choice due to its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 67 grams, which offers a satisfying resistance while typing. This switch's smoother action combined with its clacky sound profile makes it ideal for those who appreciate a more tactile feedback along with an audible confirmation of each keystroke, whether you're typing extensively at work or enjoying some casual gaming at home. Conversely, if you prefer a lighter touch, the HMX SU switch, with its 50 grams of actuation force, is designed for effortless key presses, making it suitable for fast typists or gamers who require quick, responsive actions without the strain of heavier switches. Its subtle sound profile doesn't compromise your environment, which is encouraging for those working in quieter settings. Ultimately, your selection should be guided by whether you prioritize a moderately-weighted, tactile experience (Ink Yellow) or a lighter, faster response rate with a more subdued sound (HMX SU).

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Yellow Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn more

HMX SU Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more