Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Gateron Jupiter Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Gateron Jupiter Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Gateron Jupiter Red mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both offer unique features and benefits for users. The Ink Box Pink switch is renowned for its beautiful translucent design and lighter typing feel, resulting in a higher-pitched clack during use. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red switch provides a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke with a medium-heavy actuation, along with high-precision molds and softer backlight effects for a consistent typing experience. While the Ink Box Pink offers a clacky and high-pitched sensation, the Jupiter Red is described as creamy and mild, catering to different preferences. 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
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
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 the Gateron Jupiter Red both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Pink provides a satisfying, high-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Jupiter Red creates a sharper and crisper sound due to its stiffness. While both top housings offer a unique sound experience, they cater to different preferences with the Ink Box Pink leaning towards a thinner, higher-pitched sound and the Jupiter Red offering a clearer and resonant sound profile.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials, the Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend and the Jupiter Red's nylon housing offer contrasting sound experiences. The INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Pink provides a high-pitched and pointed sound profile, complementing the top housing's characteristics. In comparison, the nylon bottom housing of the Jupiter Red elicits a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition. These differences in bottom housing materials contribute to the overall sound profile of each switch, with the Ink Box Pink offering a more consistent high-pitched sound and the Jupiter Red providing a deeper and rounder sound experience.
While the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Gateron Jupiter Red differ in material, they each play a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and feel of the switch. The top housing material affects the sound when pressing down on a key, while the bottom housing material impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Despite their differences, both switches exhibit unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer the higher-pitched clacky sound of the Ink Box Pink or the deeper and fuller sound of the Jupiter Red, the housing materials of each switch contribute to their distinct sound profiles.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. However, both switches share the same bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a consistent typing experience once the key is fully pressed. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Jupiter Red may be the better option, allowing for easier keystrokes and potentially reducing fatigue during long typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the slightly heavier actuation force of the Ink Box Pink can provide a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for actuation force and typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm while the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Ink Box Pink offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Jupiter Red, which may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red provides a bit more depth and may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press. Both switches fall within the range of common travel distances, with the Ink Box Pink being slightly shorter and the Jupiter Red being slightly longer. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
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 Red 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch offers a more neutral sound profile, suitable for various preferences and environments. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
As for feel, both the Ink Box Pink and Jupiter Red switches are described as polished, offering a sleek and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Ink Box Pink is also noted for its silky and polished feel, emphasizing an exceptionally smooth typing sensation with minimal resistance. In comparison, the Jupiter Red switch provides a creamy and mild typing experience, promoting a buttery feel that allows for effortless key presses. Overall, both switches aim to deliver a smooth and comfortable typing experience for users.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Ink Box Pink and Jupiter Red linear switches may differ in sound characteristics, both switches excel in providing a polished and smooth feel for typing enthusiasts. Whether you prefer the sharper clack of the Ink Box Pink or the neutral sound of the Jupiter Red, you can expect a premium typing experience with either switch. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel, as both switches offer high-quality performance and reliability in different aspects.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and Gateron Jupiter Red linear switches, you should consider your typing preferences. If you prefer a lighter typing feel with a higher-pitched clack and a switch that produces a sharp and crisp sound, the Ink Box Pink may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke with a medium-heavy actuation force and a switch that offers a moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes, the Jupiter Red could be the ideal option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to whether you prioritize typing feel and sound characteristics over actuation force and overall typing experience.
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