TTC Gold Pink vs. Gateron Ink Box Black

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Gold Pink and the Gateron Ink Box Black. The Gold Pink is a linear switch with a 37g actuation force, making it one of the lightest switches available. This switch is perfect for those who prioritize a fast and effortless typing experience, making it ideal for rapid typing sessions or competitive gaming. The Gold Pink also offers a satisfying level of feedback with its clacky sound, providing a lively and enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black is also a linear switch known for its smooth and creamy feel. It offers a unique sound signature reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. The Black Ink switch is categorized as clacky, high-pitched, silky, and polished. Both switches have their own distinct qualities and advantages, however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

TTC Gold Pink Linear

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

$4.80

$4.28 per 10

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

Comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Pink and the Gateron Ink Box Black, there are distinct differences in their characteristics. While the Gold Pink utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, the Ink Box Black employs Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Pink creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. This makes it ideal for those who prefer a clear and resonant sound, especially when using RGB lighting. In contrast, the INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Black produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, which is described as clacky but not overly sharp.

Moving on to the bottom housing, the Gold Pink features a nylon material that results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the proprietary INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Black also contributes to its thin and higher-pitched sound profile. While both switches provide a satisfying sound experience, the Ink Box Black's bottom housing offers a slightly sharper and more pointed sound compared to the Gold Pink's nylon bottom housing.

Considering the impact of the different housing materials, it's important to note that when pressing down on a switch, the bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel. This means that the qualities of the Gold Pink's nylon bottom housing will be more evident during key presses. Conversely, the sound experienced when releasing a key is more influenced by the top housing. Therefore, the polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Pink and the INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Black will offer similar results in terms of sound characteristics when keys are released, albeit with slight variations in pitch and sharpness.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, there are clear differences in weight. The Gold Pink has a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, providing a smooth and light typing experience. In contrast, the Ink Box Black requires a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, giving a more substantial typing feel. The Gold Pink is significantly lighter than the Ink Box Black, making it a preferred choice for those who value longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. However, for users who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, the heavier forces of the Ink Box Black would be more suitable. Both switches offer different weight options, allowing users to tailor their keyboard experience to their personal preferences.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, we can see that the Gold Pink has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Ink Box Black has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both of these distances fall within the range of what is considered normal for switch travel distances. Generally, a travel distance of 4 mm is seen as more traditional, while a distance of 3.6 mm is slightly shallower. This means that the Gold Pink offers a slightly deeper press compared to the Ink Box Black.

However, it is worth noting that shorter travel distances have become popular, particularly among gamers who prioritize faster response times. For these individuals, the Ink Box Black with its slightly shorter travel distance may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt and prefer a more substantial depth when pressing down on a key. In this case, the Gold Pink with its longer travel distance would be a better option.

Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Gold Pink and the Gateron Ink Box Black comes down to personal preference, with the shorter travel distance of the Ink Box Black offering a faster response time, while the longer travel distance of the Gold Pink provides a more substantial feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the TTC Gold Pink switches are known for their clacky sound, which produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. The sound can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black switches have a sound signature that reminds us of a spray paint can being shaken. While the sound qualities of both switches are unique, they are both considered to be on the higher-pitched side, offering a more sharp and crisp sound profile. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Pink switches provide a light and lively typing experience. They are described as buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished. This means that the keystrokes feel smooth, effortless, and uniform. The light actuation force of 37g reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black switches are known for their silky typing experience, offering exceptionally smooth key presses. They also have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches provide a pleasant typing experience, with the Gold Pink switches catering to those who prefer a lighter and springier feel, and the Ink Box Black switches offering a smooth and effortless typing sensation.

Considering all the available information, it is clear that both the TTC Gold Pink and Gateron Ink Box Black switches have their unique qualities. The Gold Pink switches are known for their clacky sound and light and lively typing experience, making them suitable for rapid typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black switches offer a silky typing experience with a spray paint can-like sound signature. If you prefer a lighter and more springy feel with a clacky sound, the Gold Pink switches would be a great choice. Alternatively, if you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience with a unique sound profile, the Ink Box Black switches would be the better option. Overall, it is important to consider your personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these two switches.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a light and lively typing experience, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch would be an excellent choice. With its low bottom out force of 45 grams and 37g actuation force, these switches deliver a fast and effortless typing experience, making them perfect for rapid typing or gaming. The Gold Pinks also offer a satisfying level of feedback with their clacky sound, adding to the overall typing experience.

On the other hand, if you prefer an incredibly smooth and creamy typing experience, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch would be a better option. These switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a bit more resistance for a controlled typing feel. The Ink Box Blacks are known for their smoothness and produce a high-pitched, clacky sound reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken.

In terms of sound, the Gold Pink is described as clacky and high-pitched, offering a crisp and bright sound when pressed. The Ink Box Black, on the other hand, produces a sharp and crisp sound due to its high-pitched nature, making it a good choice for those who prefer a more cutting sound profile.

In terms of feel, the Gold Pink is described as buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished, providing a smooth and seamless typing experience with reduced finger fatigue. The Ink Box Black, on the other hand, is described as silky and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth typing feel with minimal resistance.

Ultimately, the choice between TTC Gold Pink linear switches and Gateron Ink Box Black linear switches will depend on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a light and lively typing experience with a clacky sound, the Gold Pinks are a great option. However, if you prefer a smoother and creamier typing experience with a high-pitched, clacky sound, the Ink Box Blacks would be more suitable. Consider your typing style, preferences for sound, and desired typing feel to make an informed decision.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Gold Pink Linear

$4.80

$4.28 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more