Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Durock Koala
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Durock Koala switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Durock Koala offer distinct typing experiences. The Ink Box Pink is a linear switch that is smooth and provides a lighter typing feel, with a higher-pitched clack that adds a unique sound to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Koala is a tactile switch that offers a stepped tactility, giving a pronounced bump without being overly loud, making it a perfect middle ground for those who enjoy a tactile response. While the Ink Box Pink is ideal for those who prefer a smooth and clacky typing experience, the Koala is great for those who want a tactile feedback without the full travel bump. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Durock Koala switches differ in terms of their housing materials. While the Pink features a proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing, the Koala utilizes polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The INK blend in the Pink switch creates a pointed and high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky, whereas the polycarbonate in the Koala switch produces a sharper and crisper sound due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing in the Koala switch offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the thin and higher-pitched sound of the INK blend in the Pink switch.
In terms of aesthetics, the INK blend top housing in the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch is not as visually striking as the clear polycarbonate top housing of the Durock Koala switch. The translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for better RGB lighting effects, making the Koala switch more appealing for those looking to customize their keyboard with colorful lighting. However, the nylon bottom housing of the Koala switch may not have the same impact on sound and feel as the proprietary INK blend bottom housing of the Pink switch, which is known for its satisfying clacky sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of both sound and aesthetics.
Despite their differences in housing materials, both the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Durock Koala switches aim to provide a unique typing experience. The INK blend top housing in the Pink switch may offer a slightly different sound profile compared to the polycarbonate top housing of the Koala switch, but both switches are designed to be satisfying to type on. Additionally, while the nylon bottom housing of the Koala switch absorbs more sound to create a duller sound profile, the INK blend bottom housing in the Pink switch contributes to its distinct clacky sound. Overall, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, it is evident that the Ink Box Pink requires a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Koala, whose actuation force is unknown. However, the Koala has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, while the Ink Box Pink has a bottom out force of 60 grams. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range of forces. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Gateron Ink Box Pink due to its lower actuation force, making it easier to type for longer periods of time. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Durock Koala with its higher bottom out force for a more tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the Durock Koala tactile switch's 4 mm travel distance. The shorter travel distance of the Ink Box Pink may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Koala may provide a more satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a deeper press. Both switches offer different experiences due to their travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If shorter travel distances are more your style, the Ink Box Pink may be the way to go, while those who enjoy a longer press may lean towards the Durock Koala.
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 Durock Koala has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Koala for $4.21.
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 known for its high-pitched and clacky noise, which provides a sharp and percussive sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Durock Koala tactile switch offers a more neutral and low-pitched sound with a mellow tone that is not overly loud. The sound of both switches can be affected by factors such as the keyboard's build and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch is described as silky and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Conversely, the Durock Koala tactile switch is also polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. Additionally, the Koala switch is accented and stepped, providing a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming while offering a two-stage keystroke feel.
Overall, if you prefer a sharp and clacky sound with a lighter typing feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch would be the way to go. However, if you are looking for a switch with a more pronounced bump and a neutral, low-pitched sound, the Durock Koala tactile switch would be a better choice. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when selecting the best switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you value a lighter typing feel with a high-pitched clacky sound, then the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with a pronounced bump that doesn't span the entire keystroke, along with a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, then the Durock Koala tactile switch would suit your preferences better. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize typing feel, sound profile, and tactile feedback in a mechanical keyboard switch. Choose wisely to ensure your typing experience matches your preferences perfectly.
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