Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. HMX Lotus
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the HMX Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the HMX Lotus mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to consider the key characteristics of each switch. The Gateron Ink Box Pink is praised for its smoothness and light typing feel, with a higher-pitched clack that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus offers a medium weight of 50g bottom out and a bright, resonant sound, providing a bouncy feeling with each keystroke. While the Box Pink switch is described as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', and 'Polished', the Lotus switch lacks specific categories. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the HMX Lotus, it is clear that they each offer distinct sound profiles. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Pink provides a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky, while the nylon top housing of the Lotus produces a deeper and fuller sound. The difference in sound can be attributed to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound compared to the harder plastic used in the INK blend.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches offer similar characteristics but with their own unique twist. The INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Pink provides a thin and higher-pitched sound profile, similar to its top housing, resulting in a consistent clacky sound throughout the keystroke. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Lotus enhances the deeper and fuller sound profile, complementing the top housing to create a more rounded sound experience. The bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, giving users a tactile response during typing.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the HMX Lotus will come down to personal preference in sound profile. While the Ink Box Pink offers a consistent and clacky sound throughout the keystroke with its proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing, the Lotus provides a deeper and fuller sound experience with its nylon top and bottom housing. Both switches excel in providing a satisfying typing experience, but the slight differences in sound profile may sway users towards one switch over the other.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch both offer smooth keystrokes with a light actuation force for a quick response. The Ink Box Pink has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Lotus's 45 grams, but both have a relatively light bottom out force. The Ink Box Pink requires 60 grams for bottoming out, while the Lotus only needs 50 grams. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Lotus may be the better choice, as it requires less force for both actuation and bottom out. However, for those who enjoy a slightly firmer feel, the slightly heavier actuation force of the Ink Box Pink may provide a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, slightly longer than the HMX Lotus linear switch with a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, favored by gamers for their quicker response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may be noticeable to some users, with the Ink Box Pink providing a slightly deeper press compared to the Lotus. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 HMX Lotus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus for $2.99.
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 offers a clacky and high-pitched typing experience, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus linear switch sound profile is unknown. Depending on personal preference, if you enjoy a more crisp and bright sound, the Ink Box Pink might be the preferred choice. However, sound can also be influenced by the keyboard construction and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is known for its silky and polished typing experience, providing an exceptionally smooth feel with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The HMX Lotus linear switch feel profile is unknown. If a smooth and refined typing experience is important to you, the Ink Box Pink switch may be a good option to consider.
Overall, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and HMX Lotus linear switches have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the sound and feel of the Lotus switch remain unknown, if similar results are desired, opting for the Ink Box Pink may provide a smooth and clacky typing experience. It's always important to consider personal preference and test out different switches to find the best fit for your typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, you should consider the differences in bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a crisper, high-pitched sound, the Ink Box Pink may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a bouncy, resonant sound, the HMX Lotus switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on personal preference and what type of typing experience you value most.
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