Gateron Ink Red vs. TTC Silent Red

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, there are a variety of options to consider. Two popular choices are the Gateron Ink Red and the TTC Silent Red, both of which are linear switches. The Ink Red is best known for its lower actuation force, making it ideal for those with a lighter typing style. Its satisfyingly smooth feel and crispy, clacky sound profile add to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Red is the go-to switch for individuals seeking a noiseless typing experience. With a muted sound profile, these switches are perfect for office or shared living spaces. The Silent Red also offers a consistent and smooth feel from top to bottom, with a padded bottom-out feel for maximum comfort. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Red Linear

TTC Silent Red Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

$5.28

$4.38 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and TTC Silent Red switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Ink Red's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a satisfying, thin, and higher-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. In contrast, the Silent Red's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a clearer and more resonant sound. However, both switches offer a similar characteristic in terms of a relatively high-pitched sound.

Moving to the bottom housing, the Ink Red and Silent Red switches diverge again. The Ink Red utilizes its proprietary INK blend bottom housing, which contributes to the switch's pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. Conversely, the Silent Red employs a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a relatively softer plastic, absorbs more sound, thus creating a duller and rounder sound. These differences highlight how the bottom housing material greatly impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch.

It's important to note that the impact of the top and bottom housing materials will vary depending on the specific switch. However, in general, the bottom housing will have a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will predominantly affect the sound when releasing a key. Regardless of these distinctions, both switches provide unique and desirable sound characteristics, making them suitable options for individuals seeking a specific sound profile for their mechanical keyboard setup.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, it is clear that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the force required to trigger a keystroke is identical for both switches, resulting in a similar typing experience in terms of sensitivity. However, there is a difference in the bottom out force. The Ink Red has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is considered medium, while the Silent Red has a slightly higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it medium-heavy.

For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, where they can type for longer periods without fatigue, the Ink Red may be the more suitable option due to its lower bottom out force. Its lighter force requirement allows for a smoother typing flow, making it ideal for users who spend extended periods typing or gaming. On the other hand, for those who prefer a more substantial push feel and a greater tactile feedback while typing, the TTC Silent Red with its higher bottom out force would be a better choice. The extra resistance from the higher force can provide a more satisfying typing experience for users who enjoy a more pronounced tactile response.

Overall, while both switches share the same actuation force, the difference in bottom out force between the Gateron Ink Red and TTC Silent Red linear switches offers users options for finding the perfect balance between lightness and a more substantial typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, it becomes clear that there is a slight difference between the two. The Ink Red has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Silent Red has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that the Ink Red has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Silent Red.

In terms of preferences, a travel distance of 4.0mm is more traditional and provides a deeper key press experience, which some may find more satisfying. On the other hand, a travel distance of 3.7mm is slightly shorter, which can be advantageous for gamers who value faster response times. The shorter travel distance allows for quicker actuation, giving gamers an edge in competitive gaming scenarios.

Ultimately, the choice between the Ink Red and Silent Red switches will depend on individual preferences and specific use cases. If you prioritize a deeper key press and a more substantial feel, the Gateron Ink Red with its 4 mm travel distance may be the better option for you. However, if you prioritize faster response times and a more responsive typing or gaming experience, the TTC Silent Red with its shorter 3.7 mm travel distance may be a more suitable choice. Regardless of the choice, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, albeit with slight differences in travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Red and TTC Silent Red switches have different characteristics. The Ink Red is described as having a "crispy and clacky" sound profile, which means it produces a distinct and satisfying sound when typing. Additionally, it is mentioned that the Ink Reds can have a slight squeak, giving them a unique acoustic signature. On the other hand, the Silent Red is known for its "muted" sound profile, which means it produces softer and quieter sounds compared to regular or clacky switches. The Silent Reds are specifically designed to minimize noise, making them a great option for office or shared living spaces. It is important to note that the sound of these switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.

In terms of feel, both the Ink Red and Silent Red switches offer a smooth typing experience. The Ink Red is described as "silky" and "polished," indicating that they provide an exceptionally smooth feel when typing. These switches have a refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel, which enhances the overall typing experience. They are also considered "mild," providing a gentle typing sensation that most users would find approachable and comfortable. Similarly, the Silent Red switches are also described as "buttery" and "polished," signifying that they offer a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. These switches provide a seamless and effortless typing sensation with uniform feedback. As with the sound, the typing feel can also be influenced by factors such as lubing and materials used in the switches.

Based on the available information, the Gateron Ink Red and TTC Silent Red switches have different subjective qualities. The Ink Reds are known for their crisp and clacky sound profile, while the Silent Reds offer a muted and quieter typing experience. Both switches provide a smooth feel, with the Ink Reds being described as silky and polished, and the Silent Reds as buttery and polished. The Ink Reds have a lower actuation force, making them suitable for those with a lighter typing style. In conclusion, if you prefer a switch with a louder and clackier sound, along with a slightly lower actuation force, the Gateron Ink Reds would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quieter and more muted typing experience, the TTC Silent Reds would be the ideal option. However, it is important to consider personal preferences and other factors such as keyboard board, keycaps, and lubing, as they can all contribute to the overall typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you have a lighter typing style and prefer a switch with a lower actuation force, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch is the way to go. These switches are satisfyingly smooth, have a crispy and clacky sound profile, and are effortless to type on. On the other hand, if you prioritize a silent typing experience and want a switch that minimizes noise, the TTC Silent Red linear switch is the perfect choice. These switches have a muted sound profile, making them ideal for office or shared living space use. Additionally, both switches offer a smooth and consistent feel, with the Ink Red described as silky, mild, and polished, and the Silent Red described as buttery, mild, and polished. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal preferences regarding actuation force, sound profile, and overall typing feel.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Red Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn more

TTC Silent Red Linear

$5.28

$4.38 per 10

Learn more