Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Gateron Lunar Probe
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and Gateron Lunar Probe both offer unique features and advantages. The Ink Box Pink is praised for its smooth and light typing feel, along with a higher-pitched clack during use. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe stands out with its dual rail mechanism that ensures stable and consistent keypresses, as well as a smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation. While the Ink Box Pink is known for its clacky and high-pitched characteristics, the Lunar Probe offers a more subtle sound signature. 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
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Gateron Lunar Probe differ in their housing materials, with the Pink featuring a proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housings, while the Lunar Probe uses polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The INK blend in the Pink switch creates a thin and high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky, whereas the polycarbonate in the Lunar Probe offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The nylon bottom housing of the Lunar Probe, on the other hand, provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Pink's INK blend.
In terms of sound profile, the top housing material plays a significant role in determining the sound when pressing down and releasing a key. The INK blend in the Pink switch and the polycarbonate in the Lunar Probe each contribute to a distinct sound experience, with the Pink offering a slightly softer and more moderate sound compared to the sharper and crisper sound of the Lunar Probe. However, the bottom housing material also plays a role in the overall sound profile, with the nylon material in the Lunar Probe creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the Pink's INK blend. This difference in bottom housing material adds another layer of variation between the two switches.
While the Pink and Lunar Probe switches have different housing materials for both the top and bottom, their overall sound profiles are influenced by these materials in unique ways. The Pink switch offers a somewhat clacky sound with its INK blend top housing and bottom housing, while the Lunar Probe provides a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force compared to the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch. The Ink Box Pink requires 50 grams of force to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-weight switch. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe only needs 45 grams to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter option. The difference in weight between the two switches may result in a different typing experience for users. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming may lean towards the Lunar Probe, while users seeking a more substantial feel and prefer a slightly heavier touch may opt for the Ink Box Pink. Overall, the preference for actuation and bottom out force will depend on individual typing preferences and usage scenarios.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch both have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. Both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Therefore, whether you choose the Ink Box Pink or the Lunar Probe, you can expect similar results in terms of the travel distance.
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 Gateron Lunar Probe has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lunar Probe for $4.19.
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 comparing the sound qualities of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, it is evident that the Ink Box Pink offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, giving a sharp and bright sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe switch's sound signature is not described in the provided information, so it may offer a different auditory experience. Keep in mind that sound can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of these switches, the Ink Box Pink is highlighted for its silky and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and refined feel with minimal resistance when pressing keys. Unfortunately, the information provided does not elaborate on the specific typing feel of the Lunar Probe switch. Nonetheless, the pre-lubed linear sensation of the Lunar Probe switch promises a smooth keypress experience that may appeal to users seeking a consistent and stable typing feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and Gateron Lunar Probe linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Ink Box Pink provides a clacky and high-pitched sound with a silky and polished typing feel, the Lunar Probe switch boasts stability and consistency in keypresses along with a pre-lubed linear sensation. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing feel, both switches have characteristics that cater to different user preferences. If you are looking for a similar typing experience in both switches, you can expect to achieve comparable results in terms of smoothness and consistency.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and Gateron Lunar Probe linear switches, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a lighter typing feel and a higher-pitched clack sound, the Ink Box Pink may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize stability and consistency in keypresses, along with an incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, the Lunar Probe might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile.
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