Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. HMX KD200
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the HMX KD200 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the HMX KD200 both offer unique typing experiences tailored to different user preferences. The Ink Box Pink is celebrated for its smooth operation and lighter typing feel, allowing for a silky and polished experience that produces a delightful high-pitched clack with each keystroke. This makes it an attractive choice for typists who appreciate a balanced blend of comfort and auditory feedback. In contrast, the HMX KD200 stands out as the clackiest option in the HMX Film switch family, delivering an expressive and resonant sound profile that might appeal to those who enjoy a more aggressive auditory response while typing. Each switch has its merits; the Ink Box Pink excels in the realm of smoothness and refined feedback, whereas the KD200 thrives on its pronounced acoustics. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that aligns with your individual typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Box Pink switches and the HMX KD200 switches utilize distinctly different housing materials, resulting in contrasting sound profiles and typing experiences. The Ink Box Pink features a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housings, which delivers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. This sound derives from the unique properties of the INK blend, designed to enhance acoustics and make for an engaging typing experience. In contrast, the KD200 utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housings, producing a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The softer nature of nylon means it absorbs more sound energy, culminating in a more rounded and subdued auditory experience.
While both switches offer a dedicated response due to their housing materials, the tactile feedback and acoustic qualities diverge notably in their on-press versus release sounds. The Ink Box Pink’s INK blend allows for a brighter auditory response, emphasizing the "clack" when keys are released, while the KD200's nylon housing focuses more on a softer sound that effectively dampens the impact noise. This means that when bottoming out a key on the Ink Box Pink, the experience will feel crisper, whereas the KD200 provides a gentler thud that rounds out the overall experience. These differences manifest not only in the auditory feedback but also in the tactile sensation felt through the keyboard.
Despite the contrasting materials, there is a common thread in how these housings contribute to the overall performance of their respective switches. In both cases, the qualities inherent to the housing materials can shape distinct but welcome typing experiences. The impact of the INK blend on the Ink Box Pink is felt in its high-pitched personality, while the K200's nylon creates a softened soundscape. However, if desired auditory profiles mirror each other, it is conceivable to achieve similar sounds by playing with the typing technique, switch placement, and even the keycap selection. In this way, enthusiasts can fine-tune their setups, regardless of the inherent material characteristics of each switch type.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch exhibit distinct differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Ink Box Pink has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium weight option. In contrast, the KD200 is lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. As a result, users who prefer a lighter touch may find the KD200 more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions, as it requires less force to activate. Conversely, those who favor a more substantial typing experience might lean towards the Ink Box Pink for its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches largely depends on personal preference for weight and feel during use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the HMX KD200 linear switches, the Ink Box Pink features a travel distance of 3.6 mm while the KD200 has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This minimal difference indicates that users seeking a more responsive key press might find the KD200 slightly more appealing due to its shorter travel distance, which can facilitate quicker actions—a trait often preferred by gamers. Conversely, the Ink Box Pink provides a bit more depth in its travel, which some users might find more satisfying and less abrupt. Ultimately, while both switches fall within a similar range, the Gateron Ink Box Pink offers a longer travel distance than the HMX KD200, catering to those who appreciate a more tactile experience.
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 KD200 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the KD200 for $3.29.
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 switches produce a bright, high-pitched clack that stands out for its crispness. This sharp and snappy sound is often appreciated for its percussive quality, making the typing experience lively and engaging. In contrast, the HMX KD200 switches, described as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, are likely to deliver a similarly pronounced auditory punch, but specific details regarding their sound profile are somewhat limited. Nonetheless, both switches are expected to produce a distinctly audible typing experience, emphasizing the sharp sounds typical of linear switches.
In terms of feel, the Ink Box Pink switches shine with their silky and polished characteristics, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience. They minimize resistance when pressing and releasing keys, which allows for a fatigue-free typing session. The refined finish of these switches enhances overall smoothness, making them a delight for typists seeking a seamless feel. As for the KD200, the information regarding its tactile feel is unspecified, so a direct comparison on this aspect isn't possible. However, if the KD200 also emphasizes smooth travel characteristic of high-quality linear switches, users could expect a similar effortless typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches are recognized for their smooth feel and sharp sound profile, the HMX KD200 switches offer a clackier sound that hints at a lively typing experience as well. Without specific details about the KD200's feel, one can only speculate, but if it shares traits with high-performing linear switches, users could enjoy an engaging typing experience. Overall, each switch offers unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and touch, allowing for a tailored typing experience depending on individual taste.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the HMX KD200 linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile. If you prefer a medium resistance switch with a bottom out force of 60 grams, the Ink Box Pink offers a smooth, silky typing experience that feels refined and polished. It is known for its high-pitched clacky sound, making it ideal if you enjoy a keyboard that provides a crisp and engaging auditory feedback without feeling too heavy. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter touch with a bottom out force of only 50 grams, the HMX KD200 is the clackiest of the HMX Film family and could be your go-to choice. Its lighter actuation makes it suitable for rapid key presses, providing an enjoyable typing experience that balances comfort with sound. Ultimately, consider the type of feedback you want from your typing experience: if you appreciate a sharper, snappier response with a bit more weight, Ink Box Pink is your match; if you want something lighter and more suitable for quick actions, the KD200 is a great option.
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