Gateron Ink Yellow vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Yellow and Gateron Type A both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Ink Yellow is a linear switch known for its shorter travel distance, providing a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. It offers a smooth and clacky feel, making it appealing to those who enjoy a more polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Type A, part of Sillyworks' "Project Rehash," is a linear switch that stands out for its innovative design and factory lubing techniques. It is favored by those seeking a medium-weight switch with a deeper sound signature. While both switches share a 'Neutral' classification, the Ink Yellow is described as 'Clacky' and 'Mild,' while the Type A leans more towards being 'Subdued.' Ultimately, the choice between these switches boils down to personal preference and typing style. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Yellow and Gateron Type A switches both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Ink Yellow switch features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which gives it a pointed and high-pitched sound profile described as clacky. In contrast, the Type A switch utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. While the Ink Yellow top housing creates a thin, higher-pitched sound, the Type A top housing absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound overall.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the Ink Yellow and Type A switches also play a crucial role in their overall sound profiles. The INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Yellow switch contributes to its pointed and high-pitched sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Type A switch enhances its deeper and fuller sound profile. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, providing a tactile feedback when pressed down.
Overall, the different housing materials of the Gateron Ink Yellow and Gateron Type A switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. While the INK blend top housing of the Ink Yellow switch creates a clacky sound, the nylon top housing of the Type A switch produces a deeper and fuller sound. Similarly, the bottom housings of these switches contribute to their overall sound experience, with the INK blend bottom housing emphasizing a high-pitched sound and the nylon bottom housing offering a rounder sound. Regardless of the housing material, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, it is evident that the Type A is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Ink Yellow. The Type A switch has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the Ink Yellow switch has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Type A switch would be the better choice. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Ink Yellow switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, we can see that the Ink Yellow has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Type A has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Ink Yellow has a shorter travel distance compared to the Type A. The shorter travel distance of the Ink Yellow may be preferred by those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Type A may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more substantial keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and 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 Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70 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
The Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, offering a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This sound is crisp, bright, and percussive, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a more tactile auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch has a more subdued sound signature, producing a dampened sound when pressed. While not completely silent, it offers a more subtle sound compared to most switches. When it comes to feel, the Ink Yellow provides a mild typing experience with a polished finish. This switch offers a gentle feel with smooth key travel, thanks to either the materials used or factory lubing. The Type A's feel qualities are unknown, but based on the information available, it can be speculated that it may offer a unique typing experience with its innovative design and factory lubing techniques. Ultimately, if you enjoy a clacky sound and a smooth, polished feel, the Gateron Ink Yellow may be the ideal choice for you. However, if you prefer a more subdued sound and a potentially innovative typing experience, the Gateron Type A could be worth considering. Both switches offer quality characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, providing a different yet satisfying result depending on your preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force and typing experience. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a shorter travel distance for a laptop-like typing experience with a smooth and clacky sound, the Ink Yellow is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a sound signature leaning towards the deeper side of the spectrum, the Type A is the ideal choice for you. Both switches offer a neutral sound profile, but if you prefer a more subdued sound and a typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel, the Type A is the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the kind of typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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