Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Zuoce Lavender
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Zuoce Lavender switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Zuoce Lavender mechanical keyboard switches, both options have their own unique qualities to offer. The Gateron Ink Box Pink is praised for its smoothness and light typing feel, accompanied by a higher-pitched clack sound during use. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender stands out for its exceptional smoothness right out of the box and a satisfyingly crisp and clacky sound with each keystroke. While the Ink Box Pink is described as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', and 'Polished', the Lavender is labeled as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Clacky'. Each switch has its own distinct appeal, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
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
21mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Zuoce Lavender both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Ink Box Pink features a proprietary INK blend top housing that creates a thin and higher-pitched clacky sound, while the Lavender boasts a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly affect the typing experience for users, with the Ink Box Pink offering a sharper acoustic feedback compared to the Lavender's more subdued sound.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Gateron Ink Box Pink utilizes the same proprietary INK blend as its top housing, leading to a consistent sound profile throughout the switch. Conversely, the Zuoce Lavender incorporates a POM bottom housing that complements its POM top housing, resulting in a cohesive typing experience with a focus on depth and muted tones. The bottom housing material plays a crucial role in the feel and sound of when a key is pressed, making it an important factor to consider for keyboard enthusiasts looking for a specific typing experience.
While the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and Zuoce Lavender differ in terms of sound profile, they both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a sharper and clacky sound like the Ink Box Pink or a deeper and more muted sound like the Lavender, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience that can enhance your overall productivity and comfort while typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific sound profile that appeals to individual users.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch differ slightly. The Ink Box Pink has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Lavender's 48 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Ink Box Pink is also slightly higher at 60 grams, whereas the Lavender requires 53 grams to bottom out. Both switches fall into the medium category in terms of force required, with the Lavender being on the lighter side of medium. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Lavender may be the better choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the slightly heavier force of the Ink Box Pink may provide a more satisfying experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal choices for gamers seeking a faster response time. However, if you prefer a more pronounced key press with a bit more depth, the Gateron Ink Box Pink may be the better option for you due to its longer travel distance. On the other hand, if you prefer a more immediate and responsive feel, the Zuoce Lavender switch with its slightly shorter travel distance would be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for travel distance and 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 Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is characterized by its high-pitched and clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch also offers a clacky sound, albeit with a crisp and satisfying tone attributed to its proprietary blend. Both switches excel in providing an auditory feedback that enhances the typing experience by giving each keystroke a distinct and enjoyable sound.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch is known for its silky and polished typing experience, offering minimal resistance and smooth key travel. This results in a refined and comfortable typing feel, enhancing overall typing performance. Conversely, the Zuoce Lavender switch boasts an easy-to-press design that requires minimal force, making typing effortless and comfortable while reducing finger fatigue during extended use. Both switches excel in providing a smooth and responsive typing feel, catering to different preferences in terms of actuation force.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different typing preferences. While the Ink Box Pink provides a higher-pitched and clacky sound with a silky and polished typing feel, the Lavender switch offers a crisp clack sound with an easy-to-press design for a smooth and low-impact typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for sound and tactile feedback, ensuring a customized and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch, consider the key differences in bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier typing experience with a higher-pitched clacky sound, the Ink Box Pink may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a lighter actuation force and an exceptionally smooth typing feel with a crisp and clacky sound, the Zuoce Lavender switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and tactile feedback. Remember to test out both switches if possible to determine which one suits your typing style best.
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