Gateron Aliaz vs. Gateron Ink Box Pink
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Aliaz and the Gateron Ink Box Pink stand out as popular options to consider. The Aliaz switch is a tactile switch that is perfect for quiet environments like the office due to its silent design. With a medium-heavy weight, it offers a substantial feel to each keystroke, appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced typing feedback without the noise. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink is a linear switch known for its smoothness and lighter typing feel compared to other mechanical switches. While it produces a higher-pitched clack, it still maintains a silky and polished typing experience. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and benefits, making them suitable for different preferences and environments. 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
75g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Gateron Ink Box Pink both offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The polycarbonate top housing of the Aliaz creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, while the Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend top housing produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. Both materials provide a distinct sound experience that may appeal to different preferences in terms of typing feel and sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, the polycarbonate material used in the Aliaz switch once again offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. Similarly, the Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend bottom housing also provides a distinct sound profile that is characterized by a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound. The choice of housing material in the bottom of the switches can greatly impact the overall typing experience, as it affects the bottom-out sound and feel when typing on the keyboard.
Overall, while the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Gateron Ink Box Pink offer some differences in sound profile, they both contribute to a unique typing experience. Whether you prefer the sharper and crisper sound profile of the polycarbonate material in the Aliaz or the clacky sound of the INK blend in the Ink Box Pink, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience that caters to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel while typing.
Weight
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions and gaming. The Aliaz switch offers a stronger push feel, while the Ink Box Pink switch has a lighter touch. Both switches provide different experiences based on the weight preference of the user, with the Aliaz being the heavier option and the Ink Box Pink being the lighter option.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch, it is evident that the Aliaz has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Ink Box Pink's 3.6 mm. While both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Aliaz being on the higher end and the Ink Box Pink being slightly shorter, the difference in travel distance may be noticeable to users who are more sensitive to these variations. Those who prefer a more responsive key press may opt for the Ink Box Pink with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a deeper actuation feeling may find the Aliaz more to their liking. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences in typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The Gateron Ink Box Pink has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Box Pink for $7.65.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is known for its muted quality, offering a softer and quieter sound ideal for quiet environments like the office. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch produces a higher-pitched clack, giving off a sharp and bright sound when pressed. Both switches provide distinct sound profiles, with the Aliaz being more subdued and the Ink Box Pink having a crisper tone.
When it comes to feel, both the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch are described as providing a silky and polished typing experience. This means that both switches offer an exceptionally smooth feel, enhancing the overall typing experience by minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Whether you choose the Aliaz for a more pronounced tactile feedback or the Ink Box Pink for a lighter and smoother typing feel, you can expect a refined and sleek typing experience with either option.
In conclusion, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aliaz is best suited for those looking for a medium-heavy weight switch with a quieter typing experience, while the Ink Box Pink is preferred by those who enjoy a lighter typing feel with a higher-pitched clack. Ultimately, both switches provide a smooth and polished typing experience, ensuring that regardless of your preference, you'll achieve a satisfying typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you value a medium-heavy weight switch for a subtle typing feedback in a quiet setting like the office, the Aliaz would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and lighter typing feel with a higher-pitched clack for a more lively typing experience, the Ink Box Pink may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the specific requirements of your typing environment.
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