Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. HMX Jelly
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the HMX Jelly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and HMX Jelly both stand out as excellent linear options, each bringing its own unique characteristics to the typing experience. The Ink Box Pink is celebrated for its smooth, silky feel and lighter actuation, coupled with a higher-pitched clacky sound that can add an enjoyable audio dimension to your keystrokes. This makes it an appealing choice for those who appreciate a more dynamic and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Jelly offers a distinct low-pitched thock sound that exudes depth, providing a satisfying auditory feedback while maintaining a super smooth action thanks to its excellent factory lube and a lightweight actuation force of 42g. Both switches cater to different tactile preferences and auditory experiences, making them attractive options depending on your needs. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T2
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches and the HMX Jelly switches, notable differences in sound profile and material characteristics emerge. The Ink Box Pink utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housings, which is designed to produce a high-pitched and relatively clacky sound. This unique formulation allows for a pointed auditory experience that emphasizes a sharper, more vibrant sound when typing. In contrast, the HMX Jelly employs nylon for its top and bottom housings. Nylon is recognized for its capability to absorb sound, providing a deeper, fuller auditory experience that contrasts sharply with the Ink Box Pink's sharper notes. As such, each switch offers a distinct user experience based on its material composition, shaping the overall sound and feel when typing.
Furthermore, the differences in the top and bottom housing materials of the switches not only dictate their audio profiles but also influence the tactile sensation of each keystroke. The Ink Box Pink's INK blend ensures a consistent sound signature throughout both the top and bottom housing, reinforcing the clacky and pointed nature of its key responses. In contrast, the Jelly switch’s nylon housing contributes to a rounded, muted sound profile that may feel softer to the touch. These variations create a more tactile experience with the Jelly switch, as users may perceive a smoother bottom-out feel due to nylon's inherent softness compared to the harder plastic of the Ink Box Pink's housing.
Nevertheless, it is essential to recognize how the combined properties of these housings impact the typing experience overall. While the Jelly's nylon design offers a more subdued auditory feedback, the Ink Box Pink maintains a lively and engaging sound due to its high-pitched INK blend. For users who prefer a clackier sound, the Ink Box Pink will provide a consistently sharp auditory feedback on both the downstroke and the release. Conversely, users who enjoy a deeper sound might be drawn to the Jelly switch's softer auditory output. Ultimately, while the materials differ significantly, users can achieve a satisfying typing experience tailored to their preferences by selecting between the distinct characteristics of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and HMX Jelly switches.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the HMX Jelly linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Ink Box Pink features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, classifying it as a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the HMX Jelly boasts a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This makes the Jelly switch more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch, allowing for longer typing sessions with less fatigue. Meanwhile, the Ink Box Pink, with its heavier force requirements, may appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial and tactile feel while typing. Overall, if you're looking for a lighter switch, the HMX Jelly is the clear choice, while the Gateron Ink Box Pink provides a heavier alternative for a more pronounced tactile experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the HMX Jelly linear switch, it’s clear that the two switches cater to different preferences in tactile feedback. The Ink Box Pink has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Jelly features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Consequently, the Ink Box Pink, being the shorter of the two, may suit those who prefer quicker response times, appealing to gamers or users who favor more responsive keystrokes. On the other hand, the HMX Jelly, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more substantial feel for typists or users who appreciate a deeper keypress. Therefore, individuals looking for a more abrupt, snappier experience might lean towards the Ink Box Pink, while those who enjoy a fuller depth would likely gravitate towards the HMX Jelly.
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 HMX Jelly has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jelly for $2.99.
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 characteristics, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches offer a high-pitched, clacky tone that is bright and crisp. This sharpness lends itself to a snappy auditory experience that can be both satisfying and attention-grabbing. In contrast, the HMX Jelly switches produce a low-pitched, deep thocky sound signature, which is rich and resonant. While the Jelly's sound profile has a more bassy, subdued quality, the Ink Box Pink leans towards a sharper, more percussive effect. It’s noteworthy that the overall sound experience can vary based on external factors such as the keyboard case and keycap material used.
In terms of feel, the Ink Box Pink switches are celebrated for their silky and polished typing experience. They glide seamlessly, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys, making them ideal for long typing sessions. The light actuation force of these switches enhances their overall smoothness, providing a gentle and effortless feel. As for the HMX Jelly switches, they too are recognized for their smooth action due to excellent factory lube and a lightweight 42g actuation force, but specific descriptors of their tactile characteristics were not provided. Their emphasis appears to be more on sound than an articulated tactile feel, leaving a gap in comparison.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and HMX Jelly switches present contrasting sound profiles, with the former favoring a high-pitched clack and the latter a low thock. While both switches offer smooth typing experiences due to their lightweight actuation forces, the Ink Box Pink boasts silkiness and polish in its feel. Ultimately, selecting between the two will come down to personal preference regarding sound and the slight nuances in feel, with both providing solid performance for a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the HMX Jelly linear switches ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the overall experience you are seeking. If you prefer a medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, enjoy a clackier, high-pitched sound profile, and appreciate a silky, polished feel while typing, then the Ink Box Pink is likely the better option for you. This switch excels in providing a satisfying tactile feedback and a lively auditory experience that can enhance your typing enjoyment, especially if you often type or game for extended periods. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter feel with a bottom-out force of just 48 grams, are interested in a deeper, thocky sound signature, and desire a switch that is super smooth thanks to its excellent factory lube, the HMX Jelly will be more aligned with your needs. Its lightweight actuation and rich sound can be particularly pleasing for those who prioritize sound dampening and a softer feel while typing. Keeping these factors in mind will help you select the switch that best complements your typing style and auditory preferences.
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