Dareu Holly vs. Gateron Ink Box Pink
An in-depth look at the Dareu Holly and the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Holly and Gateron Ink Box Pink offer distinct typing experiences. The Dareu Holly, a tactile switch, stands out with its medium 50g actuation force and a unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, appealing to those seeking a balanced and distinctive typing feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Pink, a linear switch, boasts a smooth and lighter typing feel, along with a higher-pitched clack for added satisfaction. While the Holly is categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Clacky', 'Neutral', the Ink Box Pink falls under 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', 'Polished'. If you're in search of a switch with a bit more character, the Holly may be the way to go; 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
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Holly and the Gateron Ink Box Pink, one key difference is in the materials used for the top housing. The Holly utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend top housing is characterized by a pointed and relatively high-pitched, yet not overly sharp, sound profile. Both materials offer a unique sound experience, with the polycarbonate being stiffer and more resonant, while the INK blend provides a satisfyingly clacky sound.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, the Holly features a nylon bottom housing which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend bottom housing mirrors the top housing in providing a pointed and high-pitched sound profile. While the materials are different, both bottom housings offer a unique sound experience that complements the overall feel of the switch.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a crucial role in the sound and feel of the typing experience. While both the Dareu Holly and the Gateron Ink Box Pink offer distinct sound profiles based on their housing materials, they ultimately deliver a satisfying typing experience. Whether it's the sharp and clear sound of polycarbonate in the Holly or the clacky and high-pitched sound of the INK blend in the Ink Box Pink, mechanical keyboard enthusiasts have a variety of options to choose from based on their sound preferences.
Weight
The Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch both have an actuation force of 50 grams, providing a similar typing experience in terms of trigger force. However, where they differ is in the bottom out force. The Holly has an unknown bottom out force, while the Ink Box Pink has a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a bit heavier than the Holly. The lighter actuation force of 50 grams in both switches allows for a lighter touch, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force in the Ink Box Pink provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing experience and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Dareu Holly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Ink Box Pink the shorter option, providing a quicker response time that is often favored by gamers. On the other hand, the Holly offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Holly being slightly longer than average and the Ink Box Pink slightly shorter. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference for key feel and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly for $3.76.
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
When it comes to sound, the Dareu Holly tactile switch is known for its unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements, providing a balanced and distinctive typing experience. The higher-pitched clack of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch offers a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Both switches deliver a satisfying auditory feedback, with the Holly offering a more varied sound profile compared to the more consistent clack of the Ink Box Pink.
Moving on to feel, the Dareu Holly tactile switch does not have specific descriptors available, but typically a medium actuation force of 50g provides a responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is praised for its silky and polished feel, offering an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience that minimizes resistance and enhances overall typing comfort. Both switches prioritize comfort and smoothness, making them suitable options for long typing sessions.
In conclusion, while the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch differ in their sound profiles and tactile feedback, they both aim to provide users with a satisfying and comfortable typing experience. Depending on whether you prefer a chirpy and clacky sound signature with balanced feedback or a higher-pitched clack with smoother key travel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you value a unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, along with a balanced and distinctive typing experience, the Holly may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and lighter typing feel with a higher-pitched clack, the Ink Box Pink could be the switch for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the typing experience you are looking for. Happy typing!
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