Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Gateron Ink Box Pink
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Ink Box Pink. The Ink Black V2 is a classic linear switch that has garnered a loyal following within the community. Renowned for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, this switch offers a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink stands out with its beautiful translucent design and lighter typing feel compared to other switches. Users can expect a higher-pitched clack when typing with these switches. Both switches possess unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences and typing styles. However, let's delve deeper into each switch to help you make an informed decision and find the perfect fit for your individual needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Ink Box Pink share similar housing materials, described as Gateron's proprietary INK blend. Both switches are characterized by a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, which is often referred to as 'clacky'. This indicates that when typing on either switch, you can expect a thin and satisfyingly higher-pitched sound.
Although the top and bottom housings of the switches are said to be the same, it is important to note that the qualities of the housing materials are split between these two components. When you press down on a key, the bottom housing plays a larger role in determining the sound and feel of the switch's bottom-out. This means that the INK blend material of both switches contributes to the satisfying sound and feel when pressing down keys.
On the other hand, the top housing of the switch has a greater impact on the sound produced when you release a key. Therefore, both the Gateron Ink Black V2 and Gateron Ink Box Pink will deliver a similar thin and higher-pitched sound experience when releasing the keys. This consistency in sound quality between the two switches is attributed to the shared INK blend material in their top housings.
In summary, while the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and Gateron Ink Box Pink are the same, their qualities are divided between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing influences the sound and feel when pressing down on keys, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Consequently, both switches provide a similar clacky sound and satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch to the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Ink Black V2 has a slightly heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the 50 grams required by the Ink Box Pink. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Ink Black V2 is 70 grams, while the Ink Box Pink requires 60 grams to bottom out. These variances indicate that the Ink Black V2 provides a slightly firmer and more substantial typing experience, making it appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink offers a lighter touch, which is advantageous for individuals who desire a keyboard that allows for extended periods of comfortable typing or long gaming sessions. Despite these differences, it is worth noting that both switches fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, ensuring that users can expect similar results in terms of overall typing feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. These travel distances play a significant role in the overall typing experience. The Ink Black V2 with its 4.0mm travel distance offers a more traditional feel, providing a sense of depth and stability. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink, with its shorter 3.6mm travel distance, is preferred by gamers and individuals seeking faster response times. The shorter travel distance allows for quicker keystrokes and can enhance gaming performance. However, it's important to note that some people may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. Ultimately, choosing the appropriate switch travel distance depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Black V2 has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Black V2 for $7.24.
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 Ink Black V2 provides a low-pitched, bassy, and slightly chirpy sound profile. This means that it offers a more mellow and deep tone during key presses, resembling the richness and depth associated with bass tones. The Ink Box Pink, on the other hand, produces a clacky and high-pitched sound when pressed. It offers a sharp and crisp sound profile, which can be described as bright, percussive, and lacking the deep bass tones found in the Ink Black V2. Please note that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Ink Box Pink are described as having a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. This indicates that both switches exhibit reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Ink Black V2 is categorized as a mild switch, offering a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe and approachable middle-ground zone. The Ink Box Pink, on the other hand, is referred to as silky, indicating an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance during key presses and releases. Both switches provide a pleasant typing experience, but the Ink Box Pink may offer a slightly smoother feel.
Based on the available information, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is known for its smooth downstroke, rich clack, low-pitched sound, and mild feel. It is a classic linear switch that has been favored by the mechanical keyboard community for some time. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch offers a lighter typing feel, a high-pitched and clacky sound, and a silky smooth typing experience. While the Ink Black V2 has a bassy sound profile, the Ink Box Pink leans towards a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, if you are looking for a smooth and refined linear switch with a mellow sound, the Gateron Ink Black V2 could be the way to go. Alternatively, if you prefer a lighter typing feel and a higher-pitched, clacky sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink would be a suitable choice, ensuring a silky smooth typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch, there are a few factors to consider. If you prefer a slightly heavier keypress, with a bottom out force of 70 grams, and enjoy a smooth downstroke and rich clack, then the Ink Black V2 is the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing feel with a bottom out force of 60 grams, and enjoy a higher-pitched clack, then the Ink Box Pink is a great choice.
In terms of sound, the Ink Black V2 offers a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, which creates a more mellow and rich tone. If you enjoy a deeper and richer sound during key presses, these switches are the way to go. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink produces a clacky and high-pitched sound, which is sharp, crisp, and bright. If you prefer a more percussive sound and do not like the more bassy profiles, these switches are a good option.
In terms of feel, both switches offer a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and smooth typing experience. However, the Ink Black V2 is described as having a mild feel, providing a gentle typing experience in a safe middle-ground zone. The Ink Box Pink, on the other hand, is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Ink Box Pink depends on your personal preferences. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel to determine which switch aligns best with your preferences and typing style.
Mentioned in this article
