Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. KTT Laurel
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the KTT Laurel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the KTT Laurel, two notable linear mechanical keyboard switches. Both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Ink Box Pink is renowned for its smoothness and lighter typing feel, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a gentler touch. Additionally, its higher-pitched clack provides a distinct auditory experience. On the other hand, the Laurel by KTT boasts a medium-light linear feel, striking the perfect balance between responsiveness and comfort. With its full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design, the Laurel offers a satisfying typing experience. Furthermore, its subtly low-pitched sound profile adds an extra layer of sophistication. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can best decide on the ideal switch that aligns with your personal typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
POM
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22m spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Box Pink and the KTT Laurel differ in their housing materials, with the former utilizing a proprietary INK blend and the latter incorporating POM. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Pink creates a pointed and high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky yet not overly sharp. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the Laurel produces a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the Ink Box Pink's INK blend provides a thinner and higher-pitched sound compared to the Laurel's POM top housing.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Ink Box Pink features the same proprietary INK blend as its top housing. This harmonizes the sound profile of the switch, creating a consistent pointed and high-pitched sound. Similarly, the Laurel incorporates a POM bottom housing, which contributes to an incredibly pleasing and unique sound. However, the sound profile of the Laurel's bottom housing leans towards the deeper side and is relatively more muted. While both switches provide a distinct sound experience, the Ink Box Pink's INK blend bottom housing maintains the thin and higher-pitched sound characteristic of the entire switch.
It is important to note that when a switch has different top and bottom housings, the qualities of each housing material are distributed accordingly. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound produced when a key is released. Although the Ink Box Pink and the Laurel use different materials for their housing, these principles still apply, ensuring similar results in terms of sound and feel for both switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch, there are some noticeable differences. The Ink Box Pink has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which falls into the medium force category. On the other hand, the Laurel has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Laurel switch may be more suitable as its actuation force is lighter than that of the Ink Box Pink. This lighter actuation force allows for easier and faster keystrokes, which can be beneficial for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions where speed is crucial. However, it is worth noting that both switches have bottom out forces within a similar range, with the Ink Box Pink being slightly heavier.
On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience or are accustomed to a heavier push feel might opt for the Ink Box Pink. Its actuation force is heavier, providing a more pronounced tactile feedback and requiring a stronger push to trigger keystrokes. This can be ideal for those who appreciate a firmer and more deliberate typing experience.
Overall, the choice between these two switches will largely depend on personal preferences and typing style. If a lighter and more effortless keystroke is desired, the Laurel switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if a stronger and more robust typing feel is preferred, the Ink Box Pink would be the way to go.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the KTT Laurel linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become popular for their faster response times, particularly preferred by gamers. The Ink Box Pink offers a slightly greater depth in travel, which may make it feel more substantial to those who prefer a more hearty keypress. On the other hand, the Laurel's slightly shorter travel distance may provide a slightly quicker and more immediate response. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired level of 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 KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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 clacky and high-pitched sound profile. This means that when you press the keys, you can expect a crisp, bright, and percussive sound. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel linear switch offers a subtly low-pitched sound profile. With its bass-heavy and mellow tone, the Laurel switch provides a more refined and calming audio experience.
In terms of feel, the Ink Box Pink switch is described as silky and polished. This means that it offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The polished finish of the switch, combined with possible factory lubing, ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Laurel switch is known for being snappy. This responsiveness is achieved through the use of longer or dual-staged springs, enhancing the liveliness of the typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and KTT Laurel linear switches offer distinct subjective qualities. The Ink Box Pink provides a lighter typing feel and a high-pitched clack sound, while the Laurel switch strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort with its medium-light weight and low-pitched sound profile. Depending on your preferences for sound and typing feel, these switches can offer different experiences. However, if you prefer a smooth and refined typing experience with a lighter touch, both switches can provide similar results in terms of feel, although the sound profiles will vary.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-light linear switch with a smooth and refined typing experience, the KTT Laurel would be a great choice. With its full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design, it strikes a perfect balance of responsiveness and comfort. The Laurel also offers a snappy typing experience, making it feel more alive. Additionally, if you prefer a low-pitched sound profile, the Laurel switch would be a good fit for you.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing feel and a higher-pitched clack sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink would be the better option. These switches have a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and offer a smooth typing experience. The Ink Box Pink is also known for its clacky and higher-pitched sound profile.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the KTT Laurel depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a smooth and refined typing experience with a snappy feel, go for the Laurel. If you prefer a lighter typing feel with a higher-pitched clack sound, the Ink Box Pink would be a better fit. Consider the sound and feel attributes described for each switch to make an informed decision.
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