Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Durock Mamba
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Durock Mamba switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Durock Mamba. The Ink Box Pink is best known for its smooth linear action and lighter typing feel compared to other switches. This switch also boasts a higher-pitched clack, adding a unique auditory sensation to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Mamba pays tribute to Kobe Bryant and offers a gliding typing sensation with a rich and creamy auditory experience. It is categorized as a linear switch with a neutral feel and a thocky sound profile. Both switches have their own unique qualities and characteristics that may appeal to different users. 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
60g
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
Ly
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Durock Mamba differ in their housing materials, which impacts the sound profile and overall feel of the switches. The Ink Box Pink features a proprietary INK blend top housing, characterized by a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. In contrast, the Mamba utilizes a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing, which offers a sound profile that is pleasant and slightly brighter. Overall, while both switches provide a satisfying sound, the Ink Box Pink leans towards a higher-pitched clacky sound while the Mamba provides a more balanced, bright sound.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Ink Box Pink and the Mamba also utilize different materials. The Ink Box Pink uses the same proprietary INK blend as the top housing, resulting in a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. Similarly, the Mamba incorporates a POM bottom housing, which creates a deeper and relatively more muted sound profile. These differences in bottom housing materials contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing's characteristics come into play, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Thus, the Ink Box Pink leans towards a thinner and higher-pitched clacky sound, while the Mamba offers a deeper and relatively more muted bottom-out sound.
Although the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Durock Mamba differ, they both provide a unique and pleasing sound profile. The Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend brings a pointed, high-pitched, and slightly clacky sound, while the Mamba's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend delivers a pleasant and brighter tone. On the other hand, the bottom housings contribute to the bottom-out sound and feel, with the Ink Box Pink's INK blend adding to the high-pitched clacky sound, and the Mamba's POM housing offering a deeper and relatively more muted tone. Despite these variations, both switches will provide a satisfying typing experience, allowing users to choose based on their personal preference for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. In terms of weight, both switches have a medium level bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that when fully pressed, they require a similar amount of force. However, the actuation force of the Ink Box Pink is 50 grams, while the actuation force of the Mamba is unknown. This suggests that the Ink Box Pink may have a lighter touch when it comes to triggering a keystroke.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Ink Box Pink may be a favorable choice as its actuation force is slightly lower. This can lead to less fatigue and allow for longer typing sessions, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, the Mamba might be a better option. Without knowing the exact actuation force of the Mamba, it is difficult to make a direct comparison, but it is likely to have a heavier feel compared to the Ink Box Pink.
Overall, the weight considerations of a switch can greatly impact the typing experience. Ultimately, whether one prefers a lighter or heavier force will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming need. However, both the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Durock Mamba provide a medium level of bottom out force, ensuring a similar level of resistance when fully pressed.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock Mamba linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches offer shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, which provides a more shallow typing experience. The shorter travel distance of the Mamba switch may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, as it allows for quicker key presses. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink switch offers a slightly deeper key press, which may be more satisfying for those who enjoy a greater sense of depth in their typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for travel distance and desired typing 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 Durock Mamba has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mamba for $5.17.
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 switch is best described as clacky and high-pitched. It produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, with a crisp, bright, and percussive quality. This makes it ideal for those who prefer a distinct and lively auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba switch is described as neutral and thocky. It has a moderate sound profile and offers a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. The Mamba switch provides a more balanced and mellow auditory experience, making it suitable for various purposes and preferences. However, as with any switch, the sound produced is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch is known for its silky and polished qualities. It offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The polished finish of this switch contributes to a sleek and refined typing experience, enhancing the overall smoothness and reducing friction during key travel. Similarly, the Durock Mamba switch also possesses a polished finish, ensuring a smooth and silky typing feel. However, it is described as mild, providing a gentler typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The Mamba switch strikes a balance between an inviting feel and a polished smoothness.
Considering all the available information, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and Durock Mamba switches offer distinct subjective qualities. The Ink Box Pink switch has a higher-pitched clacky sound and a silky smooth feel, while the Mamba switch provides a neutral yet thocky sound with a mild and polished typing sensation. Both switches tick the box for a polished finish, guaranteeing a sleek and refined typing experience. Depending on personal preference, one can choose between the livelier and vibrant qualities of the Ink Box Pink or the balanced and mellow attributes of the Mamba switch. Regardless, both switches promise a satisfying auditory and tactile experience to keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and light typing feel with a higher-pitched clack sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is a great choice. These switches provide a translucent and aesthetically pleasing appearance. On the other hand, if you prefer a gliding typing sensation with a rich and creamy auditory experience, the Durock Mamba linear switch would be the better option. The Mamba switches are designed as a tribute to Kobe Bryant and offer a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. Both switches feature polished finishes, ensuring a sleek and refined typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Mentioned in this article
