Gateron Ink Yellow vs. Gateron Type L

Overview

The Gateron Ink Yellow and the Gateron Type L are both linear mechanical keyboard switches boasting unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Ink Yellow is lauded for its shorter travel distance, providing a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. This switch offers a smooth and clacky feel, making it ideal for those seeking a pleasant typing experience. On the other hand, the Type L is a key component of Sillyworks' "Project Rehash," designed to combine classic travel distances with modern factory lubing practices. It stands out as the lightest in the series, requiring only 45g to bottom out, and produces a sound signature tending towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum. While the Ink Yellow leans towards clackiness and mildness, the Type L offers a more subdued and feathery feel that is easy to press. 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

Gateron Type L Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

$4.70 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Gateron Type L switches present interesting contrasts. The Ink Yellow's proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing is known for its pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, creating a clacky typing experience. In comparison, the Type L's nylon top and bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the Ink Yellow.

Despite their differences, both switches share the characteristic of having a unique sound profile based on their housing materials. The Ink Yellow's INK blend housing provides a thin and higher-pitched sound, while the Type L's nylon housing offers a deeper and fuller sound. These distinct qualities contribute to the overall typing experience and can appeal to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Overall, both switches demonstrate how different housing materials can significantly impact the sound and feel of a keyboard.

When considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall switch performance, it is important to note how the top and bottom housings contribute to different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing of a switch, influenced by the Ink Yellow's INK blend or the Type L's nylon material, plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. On the other hand, the top housing material, whether it is the INK blend or nylon, affects the sound produced when a key is released. By understanding these distinctions, keyboard users can better appreciate the nuances of each switch's construction and make an informed choice based on their preferences.

Weight

The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch showcase a notable difference in weight. The Gateron Ink Yellow has a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Type L features a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, resulting in a lighter touch overall. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Gateron Type L for extended typing or gaming sessions, while individuals who enjoy a more substantial push may opt for the Gateron Ink Yellow. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches boils down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force required for keystrokes.

Travel distance

The Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Type L linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Type L switch has a longer travel distance compared to the Ink Yellow switch. The shorter travel distance of the Ink Yellow switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Type L switch may provide a more substantial feel to those who prefer a deeper key press. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their travel distances, allowing users to choose based on their preference for responsiveness or depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Gateron Type L both fall under the neutral category, meaning they have a moderate actuation force requirement and sound profile suitable for various purposes. However, the Ink Yellow is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, while the Type L is subdued, offering a dampened and more subtle sound signature. The choice between the two would ultimately come down to personal preference and the overall sound profile you prefer in your typing experience.

Moving on to feel, the Gateron Ink Yellow is known for its mild and polished qualities, providing a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction and offers a sleek typing feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L is feathery and easy-to-press, offering an exceptionally light key press that requires minimal exertion and finger strain. Both switches offer different levels of tactile feedback and typing experience, catering to users who prefer either a more gentle and polished feel or a light and responsive touch.

Overall, both the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Gateron Type L have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the Ink Yellow offers a clacky sound and mild, polished feel, the Type L provides a subdued sound and feathery, easy-to-press feel. Depending on whether you prefer a sharper sound with a smooth typing experience or a more subdued sound with a light key press, you can choose the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience that would satisfy most users looking for a responsive and enjoyable mechanical keyboard switch.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you value a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth, clacky typing feel reminiscent of a standard mechanical keyboard, the Ink Yellow may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum, the Type L could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on which switch aligns best with your typing style and preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Yellow Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Type L Linear

$4.70 per 10

Learn more