Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two options worth considering are the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Durock Lupine, both of which fall under the category of linear switches. The Gateron Ink Box Pink is best known for its smoothness and lighter typing feel compared to other switches. With a higher-pitched clack, these switches offer a unique sound profile. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine stands out for its two-stage long springs, providing a consistent weight distribution when typing and a more powerful upward movement on the rebound. The Lupine also produces a classic clacky sound profile. Considering these general features, it's clear that both switches have their own advantages. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Durock Lupine differ in terms of their sound profiles. The Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend top housing is known for its pointed and higher-pitched sound, which is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the Lupine's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Lupine is particularly useful for those who plan to use RGB lighting due to its translucency. While both housing materials differ in their sound characteristics, they both result in satisfying and pleasing auditory experiences.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend and the Lupine's nylon show contrasting qualities. The INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Pink contributes to its pointed and high-pitched sound profile. Conversely, the nylon bottom housing of the Lupine elicits a deeper and fuller sound. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder auditory experience. The choice between these two materials depends on an individual's preference for either a sharper and high-pitched sound or a deeper and fuller sound.
When considering the overall impact of the housing materials, it is important to note that the qualities they bring to the switch are split between the top and bottom portions. The bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the combination of the Gateron Ink Box Pink's INK blend top housing and bottom housing creates a satisfying and clacky sound throughout the keystroke, while the Durock Lupine, with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, offers a sharper sound when releasing a key. Although different in terms of their materials, both switches deliver enjoyable and responsive typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. The actuation force of the Ink Box Pink is 50 grams, while the actuation force of the Lupine is unavailable. However, both switches have a medium actuation force, providing a balanced feel for typing and gaming.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Ink Box Pink requires 60 grams of force to fully press down, while the Lupine requires a slightly higher force of 62 grams. This slight difference may not be noticeable to everyone, but for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, the Lupine may provide a slightly heavier feel.
Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing switches. For those who prefer a lighter switch, the Ink Box Pink with its 50-gram actuation force and 60-gram bottom out force may be a suitable choice. This lighter weight allows for longer typing periods without fatigue, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions.
However, if a stronger push feel is desired for a more tactile typing experience, then the Lupine with its 62-gram bottom out force may be a better option. The slight increase in force can provide a satisfying feedback for those who prefer a more substantial and robust keystroke.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Durock Lupine switches offer medium actuation forces, providing a balanced feel. While the Ink Box Pink is generally lighter in terms of bottom out force, the Lupine offers a slightly heavier keystroke. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock Lupine linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the most traditional 4.0 mm distance and the shallow 3.0 mm distance. Gamers specifically tend to prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times. In this case, the Ink Box Pink switch would be the shorter option, offering a slightly faster response. However, some individuals may find short travel distances to feel too abrupt. For those who prefer a deeper and more substantial keystroke, the Lupine switch with its longer travel distance would be the better choice.
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 Durock Lupine has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lupine for $4.25.
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 high-pitched clack. This produces a sharp, crisp, and percussive sound when pressed, which may appeal to those who prefer a brighter and more energetic sound profile. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine linear switch offers a more neutral sound profile. It has a classic clacky sound that is neither too rich nor too bassy. This moderate sound profile makes it suitable for various purposes and preferences. However, it is important to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, so individual results may vary. Overall, if you prefer a higher-pitched, vibrant sound, the Ink Box Pink may be the better choice. But if you prefer a more neutral and versatile sound, the Lupine can provide a satisfying typing experience as well.
As for feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear 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 switch has been refined and enhanced to provide a sleek and frictionless key travel. Similarly, the Durock Lupine linear switch is also described as polished, ensuring smooth and refined key movements. In addition, it offers a mild typing experience, providing a gentle and approachable feel for most users. The Lupine's qualities are well-balanced, neither too pronounced nor too subtle, making it a safe and comfortable choice for a wide range of users. Overall, both switches offer a polished and smooth feel, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Box Pink offers a higher-pitched clack sound and a silky, polished typing feel, while the Lupine provides a more neutral clacky sound and a polished, mild typing experience. Depending on personal preferences and requirements, you can choose the Ink Box Pink for a more vibrant and energetic sound with a lighter typing feel, or opt for the Lupine if you prefer a more versatile sound and a moderate yet approachable typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer smooth and refined key movements, ensuring a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and lighter typing experience, accompanied by a higher-pitched clack sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a silky and polished feel, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing experience and minimizing resistance. On the other hand, if you prefer a more powerful upward movement on the rebound and a classic clacky sound profile, the Durock Lupine linear switch might be the better option. The Lupine switches have a mild and polished feel, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, making them suitable for most intents and purposes. Overall, the decision between the two switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences for sound and feel while typing. So, consider what qualities are most important to you and make your choice accordingly.
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