Everglide Crystal Violet vs. Gateron Ink Box Pink
An in-depth look at the Everglide Crystal Violet and the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Everglide Crystal Violet and the Gateron Ink Box Pink, two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct advantages for different typing preferences. The Crystal Violet switch is renowned for its light operating force of 45g, providing a relaxed and stepped tactile typing experience that is gentle and comfortable. Not only does it offer a pleasant mellow sound profile leaning towards the lower-pitched spectrum, but it also utilizes ABS in its housing for an enhanced auditory experience. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink switch stands out with its smoothness and lighter typing feel compared to other mechanical switches. While it produces a higher-pitched clack sound, it is categorized as clacky and high-pitched. Both switches offer unique features and characteristics that cater to different preferences. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
ABS
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
ABS
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Everglide Crystal Violet and the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches offer distinct differences in sound profiles. The Crystal Violet employs an ABS top housing, a material commonly found in keycaps but relatively rare in switch housings. This results in a relatively low-pitched sound when typing, providing a quieter and more subdued typing experience. In contrast, the Ink Box Pink features Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. This sound is described as clacky, satisfying, and not overly sharp. Therefore, those seeking a more tactile and pronounced sound while typing may prefer the Ink Box Pink.
Similarly, the bottom housings of these switches also differ in material composition and their impact on the sound profile. The Crystal Violet utilizes an ABS bottom housing, mirroring the material used for its top housing. As a result, the switch continues to showcase a relatively low-pitched sound during bottom-out. Conversely, the Ink Box Pink utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, contributing to its distinct sound profile. The pointed and high-pitched sound characteristics are further enhanced by the properties of the bottom housing material. Consequently, the Ink Box Pink offers a cohesive and consistent sound experience throughout both the pressing and releasing of keys.
Overall, while both the Everglide Crystal Violet and the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches exhibit differences in their housing materials, they ultimately deliver unique sound profiles. The Crystal Violet, with its ABS top and bottom housings, offers a relatively low-pitched and subdued sound when typing. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink, featuring the proprietary INK blend in both top and bottom housings, provides a more pronounced and clacky sound experience. Therefore, the choice between these switches will depend on the desired level of sound expression and tactile feedback one seeks during typing sessions.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch, there are some noticeable similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the Crystal Violet requires 45 grams of force, while the Ink Box Pink requires 50 grams. This slight difference means that the Crystal Violet is slightly lighter when it comes to the initial trigger of a keystroke. However, when looking at the bottom out force, the Crystal Violet has a force of 55 grams, while the Ink Box Pink has a force of 60 grams. This indicates that the Ink Box Pink requires slightly more force to fully press down on a key compared to the Crystal Violet.
Considering the weight of the switches, some individuals may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Crystal Violet, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing or extended gaming sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Ink Box Pink due to its slightly heavier actuation force.
It is worth noting that both switches fall within the medium-light to medium range of actuation and bottom out forces. This means that regardless of the specific switch chosen, users can expect similar results in terms of the force required for triggering keystrokes and fully pressing down on keys. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and the desired amount of force required for optimal performance.
Travel distance
The Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch have different travel distances. The Crystal Violet has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Ink Box Pink has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Crystal Violet is the longer option. 4.0 mm is a more traditional travel distance, offering a deeper key press experience. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink provides a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is preferred by gamers seeking faster response times. It's important to note that while the Crystal Violet offers a longer travel distance, it may feel too abrupt for some individuals who prefer a shallower key press. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Crystal Violet has an MSRP of $7.08 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Crystal Violet for $4.19.
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
The Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch is best known for its light operating force of 45g and its relaxed and stepped tactile typing experience. When it comes to sound, the Crystal Violet switches have a pleasantly mellow tone that leans towards the lower-pitched spectrum. This creates a subtle and non-intrusive auditory experience, thanks in part to the rare use of ABS in the switch housings. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is smooth and has a lighter typing feel. In terms of sound, the Ink Box Pink switches are described as clacky and high-pitched, resulting in a sharp and crisp sound when pressed.
When it comes to feel, the Crystal Violet switches are creamy and offer a smooth and buttery typing experience. They are mild, meaning they provide a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. The stepped characteristic of these switches adds to their mild feel, as they have two stages of tactile feedback with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink switches are silky and polished. They offer an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimized resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The polished finish of these switches results in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch have different subjective qualities. The Crystal Violet switches provide a relaxed and stepped tactile typing experience with a mellow sound profile. They have a creamy and mild feel, making them suitable for users looking for a smooth and gentle typing experience. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink switches offer a lighter typing feel with a clacky and high-pitched sound profile. They are silky and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with reduced friction. While these switches have distinct qualities, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel based on the descriptors provided.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prioritize a relaxed and stepped tactile typing experience with a gentle and comfortable feel, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch is the way to go. With its medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, it offers a creamy and mild typing feel, allowing your fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys. The Crystal Violet's low-pitched sound profile adds to its non-intrusive auditory experience, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether at home or work.
On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and lighter typing feel with a higher-pitched clack sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is the better choice. With a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, these translucent switches provide a silky and polished typing experience. The Ink Box Pink's clacky sound and lighter feel make it an option for those who enjoy a crisp and bright keystroke.
Ultimately, the decision between the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch comes down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and sound profile. Consider your priorities and choose the switch that aligns with your desired feel and auditory experience. Keep in mind that both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your overall typing satisfaction.
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