Ink Red
This linear switch, distinguished by its lower actuation force, is perfect for those with a lighter typing style. We find the Ink Reds are satisfyingly smooth, have a crispy and clacky sound profile, and are effortless to type on.
$7.50
$7.35
10 switches/order
FREE Shipping on orders over $49.00 and free returns on all orders.
Orders ship from California and arrive within 2-5 days.
Weight
Light
Heavy
Depth
Shallow
Regular
Technical data
| Switch type | Linear |
| Switch brand | Gateron |
| Manufacturer | Gateron |
| Top housing material | Proprietary INK blend |
| Bottom housing material | Proprietary INK blend |
| Mount type | PCB (5-pin) |
| Stem construction | Standard |
| Stem material | POM |
| Spring | Gold-plated |
| Actuation weight | 45g |
| Bottom-out weight | 60g |
| Factory lube status | Yes, factory lubed |
| Pre-travel distance | 2.00 mm |
| Total travel distance | 4.00 mm |
The technical data of a switch can be hard to understand. Our goal here is to demystify how these specs affect feel and sound. We hope this helps you discover whether or not a switch might be a good fit.
Actuation: 45g
A switch's actuation force, or force required to trigger a keystroke, on the Gateron Ink Red requires 45g of force. This is lighter than 77% of other switches' actuation force in our selection.
A switch's actuation force is based on the entire switch design.
Bottom-out: 60g
Bottoming out, or pressing all the way down, on this Gateron Ink Red switch requires 60g of force. With a lighter bottom-out than 55% of switches in our selection, the Gateron Ink Red is considered mediumweight.
A switch's bottom-out force is dependent solely on its spring weight.
What matters more: Actuation or Bottom-out Force?
If you prefer to bottom-out when you type, bottom-out force is the more relevant measurement. If you do not, then actuation force is more relevant.
Factory Lubed
The Gateron Ink Red is factory lubed. This is done to reduce friction and improve the feel of the switch. Other effects include reduced noise and if a tactile switch, slightly decreased tactility. Choosing a factory lubed switch saves you time and energy from having to lube the switch yourself. Factories have drastically improved the lubing process over the years, meaning more and more factory-lubed switches are great to use out-of-the-box.
Top and Bottom Housing: Proprietary INK blend
Proprietary INK blend is the Gateron Ink Red's top and bottom housing material. The proprietary INK blend by Gateron is characterized by a pointed and relatively high-pitched, yet not overly sharp, sound profile. This satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound is often described as being clacky.
Mount type: PCB (5-pin)
The Gateron Ink Red is a PCB (5-pin) mount switch. PCB-mount, or 5-pin, switches feature 2 extra alignment pins when compared to their 3-pin counterparts. This ensures alignment (i.e. switch won't rotate and will stay in place) if your keyboard does not feature a plate or if you choose not to use one. If your keyboard's PCB does not have holes for these alignment pins, you will need to trim them off before installing them.
Stem construction: Standard
The cross-shaped stem construction is the most standard as well as the most classic, as it is derived from the original Cherry switches.
Descriptors
When referring to a polished switch, this indicates a switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. This is due to either materials used and/or due to factory lubing. You can expect reduced friction and smooth key travel with these switches.
A silky switch refers to a switch that offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience. These switches enhance the overall smoothness of the typing feel and minimze resistance when pressing and releasing keys.
A mild mechanical keyboard switch offer a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. With these switches, the sound and feel will be approachable to most, as its qualities all stand in a safe, middle-ground zone.
A neutral switch has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile. This makes the switch suitable for most intents and purposes: whether or not you are a beginner or advanced, or if you are planning to use these at home or work.
A chirpy switch has a little squeak to them. This unique acoustic signature sets these switches apart from the rest.
Sound test
Try Gateron Ink Red switches before buying them
Pick 10 switches and we'll send them your way to try at home for 5 days.
How it works
First, pick 10 switches you want to try. Then, we'll send you those 10 switches to try at home for 5 days. You'll get to experience the switches and see how they feel. We'll also include a guide to help you pick your favorite switch and a preprinted return shipping label.
What comes in my try at-home box?
The 10 switches you choose will be installed on switch tester bases so you can type on them as you would on a normal keyboard. Your try at-home kit comes with a preprinted return shipping label.
How much does this try-before-you-buy program cost?
At just $15—shipping included—the try at-home program is the most cost-effective way to try switches before buying them. At less than half the cost of switch testers and with more than triple the variety to choose from, you can try before you buy without breaking the bank so you can be sure you're getting the right switch for your needs.
How do I buy the switches I want?
Send back the switches in your box using your prepaid label and purchase your favorite (or favorites)!
Everything that's included
First, try switches at home with shipping included both ways. After purchasing the switches you love most, know your switches come with a 30-day, hassle-free return or exchange policy. If you don't love your switches, we'll take them back—no questions asked.
