Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. TTC Iron
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the TTC Iron switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the TTC Iron mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique qualities for users to consider. The Gateron Ink Box Pink is praised for its smooth and lighter typing feel, creating a higher-pitched clack that adds to the typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Iron is lauded for its pronounced clacky sound signature and remarkably light actuation, providing a satisfying auditory feedback with each press. While the Ink Box Pink is categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', and 'Polished', the Iron is described as 'Easy-to-press', 'Clacky', 'Mild', and 'Neutral'. Each switch has its own distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
41g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the TTC Iron are quite different in terms of sound profiles. The Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend top and bottom housings create a thin, high-pitched, and clacky sound, while the Iron's POM housings produce a deeper, more muted sound. This difference in sound profiles may appeal to different preferences in keyboard enthusiasts, with the Ink Box Pink offering a sharper, more distinct sound, and the Iron providing a smoother, deeper tone.
In terms of sound production, the top and bottom housings of both switches play a crucial role. The Gateron Ink Box Pink's INK blend top and bottom housings work together to create a pointed and high-pitched sound profile, enhancing both the bottom-out and key release sounds. On the other hand, the TTC Iron's POM top and bottom housings contribute to a deeper and more muted sound, impacting the overall feel and acoustics of the switch. Despite their differences, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique sound profiles.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the TTC Iron may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. While the Ink Box Pink offers a clacky and high-pitched sound experience, the Iron provides a deeper and more muted tone. Whether you prefer a sharper, more distinct sound or a smoother, deeper tone, both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience with their proprietary housing materials. Whichever switch you choose, you can expect a satisfying and unique sound profile that caters to your individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the TTC Iron linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, the differences are quite clear. The Gateron Ink Box Pink has a medium actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a balanced typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Iron features a lighter actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a more effortless switch to type on. Users who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the TTC Iron to be more suitable, as it requires less force to actuate the keys. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Gateron Ink Box Pink. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing comfort and the desired level of actuation force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TTC Iron linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Ink Box Pink has the shorter travel distance compared to the Iron switch. The difference of 0.2 mm may not seem significant, but it can impact the feel and responsiveness of the switch when typing or gaming. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the Ink Box Pink for its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Iron switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 TTC Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
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 linear switch is known for its high-pitched and clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp sound with each press. On the other hand, the TTC Iron linear switch offers a similar clacky sound but with a more neutral tone, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Both switches deliver a satisfying auditory experience, but the Ink Box Pink may appeal to those who prefer a higher-pitched sound, while the Iron provides a more universally accepted sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch offers a silky and polished typing experience, emphasizing smoothness and reduced resistance during key presses. On the contrary, the TTC Iron linear switch is described as easy-to-press and mild, providing a gentle typing experience with minimal force required for activation. While the Ink Box Pink focuses on smooth key travel, the Iron prioritizes effortless and comfortable typing, making it a suitable choice for users looking for a low-impact typing feel.
Overall, both the Gateron Ink Box Pink and TTC Iron linear switches present unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. While the Ink Box Pink excels in providing a higher-pitched and smooth typing experience, the TTC Iron stands out with its neutral sound and easy-to-press actuation. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world can choose between these switches to enhance their typing pleasure.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch or the TTC Iron linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a slightly heavier typing feel and a higher-pitched clacky sound, then the Ink Box Pink may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing feel with a pronounced clacky sound and easy-to-press actuation, the TTC Iron switch may better suit your preferences. Both switches offer smooth travel and a satisfying typing experience, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch. Ultimately, the decision should be based on which switch aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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