Gateron Ink Red vs. Zuoce Lavender
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the Zuoce Lavender switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Red and Zuoce Lavender both stand out as top contenders in the linear switch category. The Ink Red is praised for its lower actuation force, making it ideal for those with a lighter typing style. Known for its smooth and satisfying feel, as well as a crispy and clacky sound profile, the Ink Reds are effortless to type on. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender switch is recognized for its exceptional smoothness right out of the box, thanks to its proprietary Ly blend. With a crisp and clacky sound signature, each keystroke on the Lavender is a uniquely satisfying experience. While the Ink Red offers a polished and chirpy typing experience, the Lavender provides an easy-to-press and clacky feel. 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
45g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
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
21mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and the Zuoce Lavender switches differ in terms of their sound profile. The Ink Red features a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a pointed and high-pitched sound, described as clacky. In contrast, the Lavender switch uses POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound. This disparity in sound profiles showcases how the choice of housing material can greatly impact the overall typing experience for mechanical keyboard users.
Similarly, the bottom housing of the switches offers a distinct sound profile as well. The Ink Red's proprietary INK blend bottom housing contributes to the switch's higher-pitched and clacky sound profile, while the Lavender's POM bottom housing creates a deeper and more muted sound. This difference in sound can influence the overall typing experience, as the bottom housing affects the sound and feel of pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing the key. These nuances in housing materials demonstrate how much attention to detail is paid in the design and construction of mechanical switches.
Overall, while the Gateron Ink Red and the Zuoce Lavender switches may have different housing materials, they both strive to provide a satisfying typing experience for users. The Ink Red's INK blend housing offers a higher-pitched and clacky sound, while the Lavender's POM housing creates a deeper and more muted sound. Despite these differences, both switches prioritize sound quality and tactile feedback, ensuring that users can enjoy a distinct and enjoyable typing experience regardless of their preference for sound profile. Whether you prefer a sharper, clacky sound or a deeper, more muted sound, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to a variety of typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch, it is clear that the Ink Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Lavender's 48 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Ink Red is heavier at 60 grams, while the Lavender's bottom out force is lighter at 53 grams. This means that while the Ink Red requires a lighter touch to activate a keystroke, it also provides a more substantial typing experience when fully pressed. On the other hand, the Lavender offers a slightly heavier feel when actuating a keystroke, but is lighter when fully pressed. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-light range in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on individual preferences for typing experience and the desired weight of the keys.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch, it is evident that the Lavender has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Ink Red has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Ink Red being more standard and the Lavender leaning towards the shorter end. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Lavender due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Ink Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Red 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 Red for $7.35.
The Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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 Red linear switch is known for its neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various typing environments and experience levels. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch offers a distinct clacky sound that adds an element of crispness and brightness to each keystroke. Both switches provide a satisfying auditory experience, with the Ink Red being more versatile and the Lavender offering a unique and percussive sound signature.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Red switch is praised for its silky and polished typing experience, characterized by smooth key travel and minimal resistance. The mild characteristics of the switch make it approachable to most users, providing a comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender switch is described as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance for effortless and comfortable typing. The light actuation force of the Lavender switch reduces finger fatigue during extended usage, enhancing the overall typing experience.
Overall, both the Gateron Ink Red and Zuoce Lavender linear switches offer a smooth and satisfying typing experience with their respective strengths in sound and feel. While the Ink Red provides a more neutral and versatile option, the Lavender stands out with its clacky sound and easy-to-press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound profile and typing experience, but users can expect similar levels of satisfaction and performance from either switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch, consider your typing style and preferences. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a switch that provides a neutral and mildly chirpy sound profile, the Gateron Ink Red may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize exceptional smoothness, easy-to-press keys, and a distinctive clacky sound signature, the Zuoce Lavender switch could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific feel and sound you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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