Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Everglide Lightning Silver V3
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the Gateron Ink Box Pink, a linear switch, and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3, also a linear switch. The Ink Box Pink is renowned for its smooth and lighter typing feel, accompanied by a higher-pitched clack that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Lightning Silver V3 offers a similarly clacky and high-pitched sound signature, but with the added benefit of a light diffuser for enhanced RGB illumination. Both switches fall under the categories of 'Clacky' and 'High-pitched', with the Ink Box Pink also being described as 'Silky' and 'Polished'. Each switch has its unique qualities that may appeal to different users depending on their preferences. 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
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3, we can see that both switches utilize unique materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Ink Box Pink features a proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing, which results in a satisfying, high-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. In contrast, the Lightning Silver V3 uses polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, creating a sharper, crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. While both switches offer a distinct sound experience, the use of different materials gives each switch its own unique acoustics.
One key difference between the two switches lies in their aesthetic design. The Gateron Ink Box Pink's INK blend housing is not translucent, providing a more solid and uniform appearance. On the other hand, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3's polycarbonate housing is clear, allowing for RGB lighting to shine through and create a visually striking effect. This difference in material choice not only affects the overall look of the switches but also contributes to the overall user experience, with the clear housing of the Lightning Silver V3 adding an extra level of customization for those who enjoy RGB lighting setups.
While there are distinct differences in the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3, both switches offer a unique typing experience with their own set of characteristics. The INK blend housing of the Ink Box Pink provides a slightly softer, yet still high-pitched sound profile, while the polycarbonate housing of the Lightning Silver V3 delivers a crisper and more resonant typing experience. Whether you prefer a clacky sound profile or a sharper, more defined sound, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience that caters to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, we find that the Ink Box Pink has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Lightning Silver V3's 48 grams. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that while the initial push on the Lightning Silver V3 may be slightly lighter, both switches will provide a similar typing experience when fully pressed. Some users may prefer the Ink Box Pink for a slightly more substantial typing feel, while others may opt for the Lightning Silver V3 for a lighter touch during longer typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference for actuation force or bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches have shorter travel distances than the traditional 4.0 mm, making them more suitable for those looking for faster response times, especially gamers. The slightly shorter travel distance of the Lightning Silver V3 may provide a slight edge in terms of quickness, while the Ink Box Pink offers a bit more depth for those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on the key. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and how it impacts overall typing or gaming experience.
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 Everglide Lightning Silver V3 has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lightning Silver V3 for $4.10.
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, both the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switches are known for their clacky and high-pitched characteristics. This means that users can expect a sharp and snappy sound when typing on either switch, providing a crisp and bright auditory experience. However, it is essential to note that the actual sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard layout, case material, and keycap type used.
Moving on to feel, both the Ink Box Pink and Lightning Silver V3 switches offer a smooth and polished typing experience. Described as silky, these switches provide an exceptionally smooth keystroke, enhancing the overall typing feel and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This results in a refined and sleek typing experience for users, allowing for comfortable and seamless typing sessions.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Ink Box Pink and Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switches share similarities in terms of sound and feel. While the sound signature of both switches is clacky and high-pitched, providing a sharp and crisp typing sound, the feel of the switches is silky and smooth, offering an enhanced typing experience. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel when using either switch, making them both excellent choices for those seeking a tactile and satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a lighter typing feel with a higher-pitched clack sound, the Ink Box Pink may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clacky and high-pitched sound signature with a silky and seamless typing experience, the Lightning Silver V3 would be more suitable. Both switches offer a bottom out force of 60 grams, making them medium in terms of actuation force. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
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