Gateron Ink Yellow vs. Bsun Taichi
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Bsun Taichi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two prominent contenders are the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Bsun Taichi, both celebrated for their linear characteristics. The Gateron Ink Yellow is appreciated for its shorter travel distance, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a typing experience that sits comfortably between a laptop and a traditional mechanical keyboard. Its smooth and mildly clacky feedback caters to users who enjoy a touch of auditory pleasure with each keystroke, epitomizing a polished and neutral typing feel. On the other hand, the Bsun Taichi switch stands out with its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, facilitated by a long-pole stem and extended springs, which provide unparalleled smoothness and stability. These features make the Taichi ideal for enthusiasts desiring a unique acoustic profile paired with solid performance. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right 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
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Bsun Taichi switches, one of the most noticeable differences lies in their top housing materials. The Ink Yellow utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend, which is designed to deliver a pointed and high-pitched sound profile that many users describe as clacky. This uniqueness stems from the specific blend of materials used, allowing for a satisfying auditory experience without an overly sharp note. In contrast, the Taichi switch features a polycarbonate top housing noted for its crisp and clear sound, emphasizing a more resonant and higher-pitched tone due to the stiffness of the material. While both switches aim for a similar auditory profile, the differences in material can lead to variations in how those sound characteristics are expressed.
The bottom housing materials present another area of contrast between these two switches. The Ink Yellow employs the same proprietary INK blend as its top housing, creating a cohesive sound signature that leans into the clackiness with a pointed, yet controlled sound profile. Conversely, the Taichi’s nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper, fuller sound, which mellowens the high-pitched characteristics introduced by its polycarbonate top. The softer nature of nylon effectively absorbs sound and minimizes sharpness, resulting in a more rounded acoustic experience. This difference in sound quality between the bottom materials suggests that users might feel a more significant variation in the overall sound produced when bottoming out the switches.
By considering the combined effects of both housing materials, we can deduce how each switch will perform as a whole. Although the Ink Yellow's top and bottom both prioritize a higher-pitched sound, the integration of more clacking tones across the housing allows it to produce a consistently sharp auditory experience. On the other hand, the Taichi’s distinct separation between the resonant top housing and the absorbent bottom allows for a richer but less sharp auditory feedback. Thus, while both switches can yield satisfying results, the nature of their sound profiles will diverge due to the materials used—highlighting how the marriage of top and bottom housings plays a pivotal role in the final auditory and tactile sensations of each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Ink Yellow features an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, indicating a medium-heavy resistance that may suit typists who favor a more substantial feedback while typing. In contrast, the Taichi switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, which makes it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons as it requires less effort to press. However, the bottom out force for the Taichi switch is unknown, leaving a gap in the comparison that prevents a complete analysis of its behavior under full keystroke pressure. Given the available data, the Ink Yellow is the heavier option, offering a firmer typing experience, while the Taichi's lower actuation force suggests it would appeal to users favoring a lighter touch. Those who prefer a balance between both may find the Ink Yellow's parameters more aligned with their preferences for tactile feedback and durability.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, we find that the Ink Yellow measures 3.5 mm while the Taichi has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that if you're looking for a more responsive key press, the shorter travel distance of the Ink Yellow may be more appealing, as it allows for quicker actuation—an important factor for many gamers. Conversely, for those who prefer a deeper, more tactile experience when typing, the Taichi's 3.6 mm travel distance offers a bit more depth, potentially providing a more satisfying keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding responsiveness versus keypress depth.
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 Bsun Taichi has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taichi for $2.25.
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 has a delightful acoustic profile characterized by a neutral yet clacky sound. This means that it produces a balanced volume that caters to a wide range of users, whether they're beginners or more experienced typists. The clackiness adds a crisp and bright quality, resulting in a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. In contrast, while specific descriptions for the Bsun Taichi linear switch's sound profile are limited, it is noted for its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound. The long-pole design contributes to this unique audio characteristic, which, while differing in pitch, also promises a distinct auditory experience, emphasizing the importance of board and keycap choice in achieving desirable sound.
When considering the feel of these switches, the Ink Yellow excels with its mild characteristics, offering a gentle and approachable typing experience that appeals to a broad audience. Its polished construction ensures smooth key travel, thanks to low friction and refined finishing, which enhances comfort during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Bsun Taichi switch lacks detailed feel descriptions but highlights unparalleled smoothness and stability due to its advanced engineering features such as the long-pole stem and extended springs. This implies that the Taichi likely provides a very satisfying typing experience, possibly rivaling the nuanced smoothness of the Ink Yellow while maintaining its unique charm.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Ink Yellow offers a smooth and mildly clacky experience suitable for most users, the Bsun Taichi showcases its distinct high-pitched sound and superior smoothness through innovative design. Both switches can provide satisfying experiences, albeit with differing auditory qualities. Thus, if you're looking for a switch that provides a gentle yet refined typing experience, you cannot go wrong with the Ink Yellow; meanwhile, if you’re intrigued by the greater auditory uniqueness and potential for smoothness, the Taichi might catch your interest.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, consider your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a typing experience that balances the feel of a laptop with that of a traditional mechanical keyboard, the Ink Yellow is likely your best bet. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 67 grams provides a satisfying resistance that can enhance your typing efficiency, making it suitable for both home and office environments. The Ink Yellow's smooth and clacky character, along with a neutral sound profile, appeals to a broad range of users, ensuring that whether you’re a beginner or an experienced typist, you'll appreciate its approachable nature. Conversely, if you are drawn to a more unique auditory experience and prioritize smoothness and stability, the Bsun Taichi might be more suitable for you. Its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound and refined design cater to those who prefer a distinct auditory feedback while typing. Ultimately, your choice will come down to the balance of sound, feel, and the typing experience that you most desire.
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