Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Gateron Jupiter Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Gateron Jupiter Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, there are a few key factors to consider. The Ink Box Pink is known for its smooth and lighter typing feel, creating a high-pitched clack that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Jupiter Brown offers a more classic keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight, blending tradition with innovation. While the Ink Box Pink is categorized as 'clacky' and 'high-pitched', the Jupiter Brown is described as 'mild' and 'stepped'. Both switches boast high-precision molds and enhanced backlight effects, providing reliable performance and aesthetic appeal. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Spring steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Box Pink and Gateron Jupiter Brown both feature unique housing materials that affect the sound profile of the switches. The Ink Box Pink uses a proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing, which results in a relatively high-pitched and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Jupiter Brown utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. While both switches offer satisfying sound profiles, the INK blend housing of the Ink Box Pink is slightly softer compared to the stiffer polycarbonate housing of the Jupiter Brown.
In terms of housing material for the bottom, the Ink Box Pink and Jupiter Brown switches differ once again. The Ink Box Pink features a proprietary INK blend bottom housing that contributes to its high-pitched and clacky sound profile. In contrast, the Jupiter Brown utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic material. These differences in bottom housing materials showcase how the sound profile of a switch can be influenced by the type of material used in its construction.
Overall, while the Gateron Ink Box Pink and Gateron Jupiter Brown offer distinct sound profiles due to their different housing materials, they both provide satisfying typing experiences. The INK blend housing of the Ink Box Pink creates a unique clacky sound, while the polycarbonate and nylon housing of the Jupiter Brown offers a sharper and deeper sound. Despite these differences, both switches showcase how the choice of housing material can impact the overall sound and feel of a keyboard switch. Whether you prefer a clacky sound or a deeper tone, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, it is clear that the Ink Box Pink is lighter in both aspects. The actuation force of the Ink Box Pink is 50 grams, while the Jupiter Brown requires 55 grams. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Ink Box Pink is 60 grams, whereas the Jupiter Brown has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams. This means that the Ink Box Pink will provide a lighter typing experience compared to the Jupiter Brown. Those who prefer a lighter feel may opt for the Ink Box Pink, while the Jupiter Brown is better suited for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Jupiter Brown switch has a longer travel distance compared to the Ink Box Pink switch. The difference between the two may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch when typing or gaming. Those who prefer a shorter travel distance may opt for the Ink Box Pink switch for faster response times, favored by gamers. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial depth with their key presses may lean towards the Jupiter Brown switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of travel distance and typing experience desired.
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 Jupiter Brown comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 is known for its clacky and high-pitched noise profile, providing a sharp and percussive sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Brown switch does not have a specific sound description provided. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch is described as silky and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In comparison, the Gateron Jupiter Brown switch is described as mild, polished, and stepped, providing a gentle typing experience with a safe middle-ground feel that includes pre-travel or post-travel sensations. Both switches emphasize smoothness and refinement in their typing feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is characterized by a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, combined with a silky and polished typing feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch offers a mild typing experience with a safe middle-ground feel, although specific sound characteristics are not provided. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer their own unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a smooth and lighter typing feel with a higher-pitched clack sound, the Ink Box Pink may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more classic tactile feedback with a medium-heavy weight and softer backlight effects, the Jupiter Brown could be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferred typing experience, sound profile, and aesthetic preferences. Both switches offer high-quality performance and durability, so you can't go wrong with either choice.
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