Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Keygeek Keylin

Overview

When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the merits of various options. Two popular choices among linear switches are the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Keygeek Keylin, each offering distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Gateron Ink Box Pink is celebrated for its beautiful translucent design and smooth actuation, providing a lighter typing feel compared to many other switches. Its notable acoustic profile features a higher-pitched clack, making it ideal for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Keygeek Keylin switches stand out for their premium, refined experience, created using new molds that enhance smoothness and deliver rich acoustics, appealing to users who prioritize an exceptional tactile experience. While both switches excel in their own right, they cater to varying tastes, with the Ink Box Pink offering a more pronounced sound and feel, while the Keylin focuses on smoothness and acoustic quality. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your typing needs.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Box Pink Linear

Keygeek Keylin Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Keygeek Keylin switches provide a fascinating contrast in terms of auditory feedback and tactile performance. The Ink Box Pink switch utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housings, which results in a pointed, high-pitched sound profile that has been characterized as clacky. This design decision infuses the switch with a distinct sound signature that caters to enthusiasts seeking a more pronounced auditory experience while typing. In contrast, the Keygeek Keylin employs nylon for its housing materials. As a softer plastic, nylon absorbs sound more effectively, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile, which creates a more subdued typing experience. The difference in materials significantly impacts the overall sound experience when using these switches.

When examining the two switches more closely, the function of the top and bottom housings becomes apparent. For the Gateron Ink Box Pink, the INK blend contributes to a high-pitched sound that is felt and heard particularly when releasing a key, making the release action feel distinct and engaging. Conversely, the Keylin’s nylon bottom housing is responsible for a more rounded and deeper sound that resonates primarily at the bottom out point. This means that while both switches have unique sound signatures, the Ink Box Pink's clackiness may appeal to those who enjoy a sharp contrast in auditory feedback, while the Keygeek Keylin's depth offers a soothing and rich sound experience.

Ultimately, both switches can deliver satisfying typing results despite the contrasting materials used. The acoustic properties resulting from the INK blend in the Ink Box Pink generate a more lively and energetic typing experience, while the nylon of the Keylin offers a smoother, more subtle sound. However, if users were to combine these housings in a custom setup or choose switches based on their housing options, they would notice how well the respective materials influence the aesthetics of typing. Gateron Ink's unique blend brings vivacity to the typing experience, while Keylin's nylon provides a comforting feel, showing the versatility found in keyboard switch design and user preference.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Ink Box Pink requires an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which categorizes it as a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Keylin is lighter, with an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a light-weight option. This difference means that users who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions might find the Keylin more comfortable, while those who seek a more substantial feel in their keystrokes may prefer the Ink Box Pink. Overall, if you're looking for a lighter touch and less fatigue over long periods, the Keylin switch would be the better choice; on the other hand, if you favor a stronger push feel, the Ink Box Pink would likely be more suitable.

Travel distance

The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm, leading to similar actuation experiences when pressing down on the keys. As both switches have the same travel distance, users can expect a comparable key feel and responsiveness, making them ideal for those who prefer a consistent linear switch experience. Since their travel distances are equal, the two switches will yield similar results in terms of keystroke depth and overall performance during typing or gaming sessions.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profiles of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, the Ink Box Pink distinctly presents a higher-pitched, clacky characteristic. This results in a sharp and crisp sound that can be quite pleasing for users who enjoy a bright auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the specific acoustic qualities of the Keylin have not been detailed, leaving some uncertainty regarding its sound profile. However, since sound is inherently influenced by other factors such as the keyboard’s build and the chosen keycaps, both switches will produce unique acoustic experiences based on their combinations with various setups.

Regarding feel, the Ink Box Pink switches are designed for a silky and polished typing experience. The smoothness of these switches minimizes resistance during key presses, allowing for a seamless typing action that many users find desirable. The polished finish enhances this smooth experience even further, likely contributing to a refined, low-friction feel. The Keylin switches, however, do not have a specific description of their tactile feedback. While it is mentioned that they deliver a premium typing experience, more detailed insights would be needed to fully appreciate how they compare to the Ink Box Pink’s well-regarded smoothness.

Overall, both the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Keygeek Keylin linear switches offer unique benefits, though the Ink Box Pink has more defined characteristics in both sound and feel. The high-pitched clacking and silky smoothness of the Ink Box Pink are noteworthy, providing a clear advantage in those aspects. While the Keylin shows promise with its premium typing experience, its lacking detailed descriptions in sound and feel leaves a gap that newcomers should consider when making a switch choice. Thus, if you favor a specific typing experience, the Ink Box Pink is a solid choice, while the Keylin may require some further exploration for a complete understanding.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Keygeek Keylin linear switches largely depends on your personal preferences regarding switch feel and acoustic characteristics. If you enjoy a typing experience that is both smooth and slightly heavier, the Ink Box Pink switch may be a great fit for you. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, it offers a medium resistance that can provide a satisfying amount of feedback, complemented by a high-pitched, clacky sound that many typists find engaging, especially in a lively typing environment. This switch is an excellent choice if you prefer a silky and polished feel during your typing sessions. On the other hand, if you're looking for something more lightweight and plush, the Keylin switch—with its lighter bottom out force of 48 grams—will cater to your needs effectively. It delivers an exceptionally smooth typing experience with rich acoustics, making it ideal for those who prioritize a relaxed and effortless key press. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your personal typing style and auditory preferences, ensuring that you choose the switch that enhances your overall mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Box Pink Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more

Keygeek Keylin Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more