Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Gateron Ink Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Gateron Ink Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, there are two contenders worth considering: the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Gateron Ink Red. The Ink Box Pink is a linear switch that stands out for its smoothness and lighter typing feel, making it ideal for users who prefer a more delicate touch. Additionally, the higher-pitched clack produced by these switches adds an element of auditory satisfaction. On the other hand, the Ink Red is also a linear switch, but it distinguishes itself with a lower actuation force, catering to those who have a lighter typing style. Users will appreciate the satisfying smoothness of the Ink Red switches, along with their crispy and clacky sound profile. With a choice between the Box Pink and Red switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, let's delve deeper into the nuances of each switch to help you make the best decision for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Gateron Ink Red have nearly identical housing materials, as they both feature Gateron's proprietary INK blend for their top and bottom housings. This means that the sound profile of both switches is characterized by a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is not overly sharp. The satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound produced by both switches is often described as clacky.
Since both switches have the same housing materials, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel. When pressing down on either switch, the bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. This means that both the Ink Box Pink and the Ink Red will provide a similar level of satisfaction in terms of keypress feedback and sound. Additionally, when letting go of a key, the top housing of both switches will influence the sound that is produced. This means that users can expect a consistent experience when using either switch.
In summary, the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Gateron Ink Red are essentially the same. Both switches utilize Gateron's proprietary INK blend for their top and bottom housings, resulting in a clacky, thin, and higher-pitched sound profile. Whether it's the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel or the top housing impacting the sound when releasing a key, users can expect similar outcomes from both switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. In terms of actuation force, the Ink Box Pink requires 50 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the Ink Red requires slightly lighter force at 45 grams. Both switches can provide a medium actuation force, but the Ink Red offers a slightly lighter touch.
Moving on to the bottom out force, both switches have the same weight, requiring 60 grams of force to completely press down. This means that regardless of which switch is chosen, users can expect a consistent level of resistance when fully pressing the keys.
Considering weight as an important factor, those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Ink Red, as it requires lighter actuation force. This can help reduce fatigue over longer periods of use. Conversely, individuals who desire a more substantial typing experience might opt for the Ink Box Pink, as it provides a slightly heavier actuation force. This can give a stronger push feel, offering a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance.
Ultimately, while the actuation force differs slightly between the two switches, both offer the same bottom out force. Depending on personal preference and typing style, users can choose between the lighter touch of the Ink Red or the slightly heavier actuation of the Ink Box Pink to suit their individual needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, it is clear that the Ink Box Pink has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Ink Red has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. These distances are different enough to elicit contrasting experiences. The 4.0 mm travel distance is more traditionally found in switches and provides a deeper feeling when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink with its 3.6 mm travel distance offers a shallower feel, which is preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. If responsiveness is your priority, then opting for the shorter travel distance of the Ink Box Pink would be suitable. However, if you prefer a more substantial and deeper key press, the Ink Red with its 4 mm travel distance will provide that experience. Overall, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences and the desired depth and speed of key presses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron Ink Red 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 Red for $7.35.
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 Gateron Ink Box Pink switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound when pressed. The clack is sharp and snappy, giving a crisp, bright, and percussive sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red switch has a more neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. It is described as chirpy, having a unique acoustic signature with a little squeak. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps. Overall, if you prefer a sharp and high-pitched sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch is the way to go. If you prefer a more neutral sound with a touch of chirpiness, the Gateron Ink Red switch will deliver similar results.
In terms of feel, both switches offer a silky typing experience with enhanced smoothness and minimal resistance. The Gateron Ink Box Pink switch is described as silky and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience. The combination of materials used and potential factory lubing ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Gateron Ink Red switch also offers a silky and polished feel, resulting in a sleek typing experience with enhanced smoothness and minimized resistance. Additionally, the Ink Red switch is categorized as mild, offering a more gentle typing experience that most users will find approachable. Both switches provide a safe middle-ground zone in terms of feel, delivering a smooth and enjoyable typing experience.
Taking into account the available information, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch have distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Box Pink switch offers a clacky, high-pitched sound profile with a lighter typing feel. It is smooth and polished, providing an excellent typing experience. On the other hand, the Ink Red switch has a neutral sound profile with a touch of chirpiness. It also offers a silky and polished feel, along with a mild typing experience that is gentle yet satisfying. While they have their unique characteristics, both switches provide a smooth and effortless typing experience, ensuring a high level of satisfaction for users.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a switch that offers a lighter typing feel and a higher-pitched clack sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches have a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a smooth and lighter typing experience. The Ink Box Pink switches are best known for their beautiful translucent design and the satisfyingly crisp and bright sound they produce. Additionally, they offer a silky and polished typing feel, thanks to their smooth finish and reduced friction.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a lower actuation force and a crispy and clacky sound profile, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch would be more suitable for your lighter typing style. Like the Ink Box Pink, the Ink Red also has a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, ensuring a comfortable typing experience. These switches are known for their effortless typing feel and unique chirpy sound, which adds a touch of character to your keystrokes. In terms of feel, the Ink Red offers a silky and polished typing experience, similar to the Ink Box Pink.
Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and Ink Red switches depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer a lighter typing feel and a higher-pitched clack sound, the Ink Box Pink would be the better choice. However, if you prefer a lower actuation force and a crispy and clacky sound profile, the Ink Red would be more suitable for you. Whether you prioritize sound or feel, both switches offer a smooth and polished typing experience overall.
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