Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Bsun Kiki Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Bsun Kiki Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Bsun Kiki Red mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Ink Box Pink is celebrated for its smoothness and lighter typing feel, accompanied by a higher-pitched clack that sets it apart. On the other hand, the Kiki Red stands out for its finely-tuned typing experience, striking a balance between high-pitched clacky nuances and a comfortable level of loudness. While the Ink Box Pink is described as 'clacky' and 'high-pitched', the Kiki Red is labeled as 'creamy', 'silky', and 'snappy', offering a variety of tactile sensations. 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
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20.4mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Box Pink features a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a pointed and high-pitched sound profile, described as clacky. In contrast, the Bsun Kiki Red utilizes a POM top housing that creates a deeper and more muted sound. This results in a clear distinction in sound experience between the two switches, with the Ink Box Pink offering a more sharp and higher-pitched sound compared to the Kiki Red's deeper and subdued profile.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Ink Box Pink also uses the same proprietary INK blend found in its top housing, resulting in a consistent sound profile throughout the switch. On the other hand, the Bsun Kiki Red incorporates a POM bottom housing, which contributes to the switch's overall unique sound and feel. This difference in bottom housing material may lead to variations in the typing experience between the two switches, with the Ink Box Pink providing a more uniform sound profile while the Kiki Red offers a slightly different feel due to the POM material.
Overall, while both switches may have distinct top and bottom housing materials, the differences in sound and feel produced by these materials contribute to the overall typing experience. The Gateron Ink Box Pink's INK blend top and bottom housing create a consistent, clacky sound profile, while the Bsun Kiki Red's POM top and bottom housing result in a deeper, more muted sound. Despite these variations, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique housing materials.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch, which has an actuation force of 42 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Ink Box Pink requires 60 grams, while the Kiki Red only needs 50 grams. Overall, the Kiki Red switch is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force, making it a good option for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink switch offers a slightly heavier feel, suitable for those who prefer a more substantial push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with the lighter Kiki Red being better for extended typing sessions and the heavier Ink Box Pink providing a more solid typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when you press down on a key that uses either of these switches, you will experience a similar level of travel distance before bottoming out. As a result, the typing experience on both switches will feel equally smooth and consistent. In terms of comfort and typing efficiency, users can expect comparable results from both switches due to their matching travel distances. Therefore, whether you choose the Gateron Ink Box Pink or the Bsun Kiki Red, you can rely on a consistent typing experience with the same travel distance.
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 Bsun Kiki Red has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Kiki Red for $3.83.
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 linear switch is distinguished by its high-pitched and clacky nature, producing sharp and percussive sounds when pressed. On the other hand, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch also offers a clacky sound profile, but without being excessively loud, striking a balance with a comfortably high-pitched nuance. Both switches provide a unique auditory experience that enthusiasts appreciate, with the choice of board and keycaps also playing a role in the overall sound.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is known for its silky and polished typing experience, offering minimal resistance and smooth key travel. Conversely, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch provides a creamy and frictionless typing sensation, allowing for effortless key presses and fluid travel. Both switches prioritize smoothness and responsiveness, enhancing the typing experience for users who value finesse in performance.
Overall, when comparing the subjective qualities of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch, it is evident that they both excel in providing a smooth and responsive typing experience. While the Ink Box Pink leans towards a lighter feel and higher-pitched sound, the Kiki Red strikes a balance with a comfortable clacky nuance and medium-light weighting. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to enthusiasts seeking subtlety in auditory feedback and finesse in performance, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of the choice between the two.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering which switch to choose between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Bsun Kiki Red, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer a lighter typing feel with a higher-pitched clack sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a finely-tuned typing experience with a comfortably high-pitched, clacky nuance, along with all-POM housing for a unique sound signature and smooth actuation, then the Bsun Kiki Red could be the better option. Consider the bottom out force, sound profile, and tactile feel of each switch to determine which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Bsun Kiki Red comes down to what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch – whether it be the smoothness, sound, or overall typing experience.
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