Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Gateron Melodic. The Ink Box Pink is a linear switch known for its smoothness and lighter typing feel compared to other switches, while also offering a higher-pitched clack during use. On the other hand, the Melodic is a clicky switch that reinvents the category with advancements like factory lubing and dual-railed stems, providing a classic clicky sound and tactile feedback without sacrificing smoothness. While the Ink Box Pink may appeal to those looking for a sleek and polished typing experience, the Melodic is ideal for users who enjoy a more invigorating and crunchy typing sensation. 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
4.00 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Gateron Melodic offer distinct sound profiles due to their different compositions. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Pink produces a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound that is often described as clacky, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Melodic creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the Melodic results in a more clear and resonant sound due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Pink contributes to the overall sound profile with a pointed and relatively high-pitched tone, enhancing the clacky sound experience.
The differences in housing materials extend to the bottom housings of the Gateron switches as well. The Ink Box Pink's INK blend bottom housing produces a similar pointed and high-pitched sound profile to its top housing, contributing to the overall clacky sound of the switch. On the other hand, the Melodic's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to nylon's softer composition that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings, creating a distinct typing experience compared to the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Pink.
Overall, while the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and Melodic switches offer unique sound profiles, they work together to create a cohesive typing experience. The choice of housing material for each part of the switch affects the sound produced during both key presses and key releases. Whether it's the clacky thin sound of the INK blend housing in the Ink Box Pink or the deep and full sound of the nylon housing in the Melodic, each material contributes to the overall feel and sound signature of the switch. Ultimately, users can expect similar levels of quality and attention to detail in both switches, despite the differences in housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, we can see that the Ink Box Pink has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, while the Melodic has an unknown actuation force. Both switches, however, have a bottom out force of 60 grams, making them equal in that aspect. The lighter actuation force of the Ink Box Pink may be more appealing to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the heavier actuation force of the Melodic may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Melodic clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Melodic switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Ink Box Pink. Generally, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for faster response times, making the Ink Box Pink a suitable choice for gaming setups. On the other hand, some users may find that a longer travel distance provides a more satisfying typing experience, in which case the Melodic switch would be a better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and whether a shorter or longer travel distance is preferred for individual typing or gaming needs.
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 Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 offers a clacky and high-pitched typing experience, giving off a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch provides a resonant and crunchy sound profile, reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. If you prefer a sharper and crisp sound, the Ink Box Pink may be more to your liking, whereas the Melodic switch offers a more immersive auditory experience with its resonant tones. The sound produced by each switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch offers a silky and polished typing experience, providing smooth key travel and reduced friction during typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch delivers a buttery and invigorating keystroke feel, offering pronounced feedback and a snappy typing sensation. If you prefer a smoother and refined typing experience, the Ink Box Pink may be the way to go, while the Melodic switch provides a more fluid and immersive typing sensation. Both switches offer different typing feels based on their design and construction.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch provide distinct sound and feel experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Ink Box Pink offers a lighter and higher-pitched sound with a silky and polished typing feel, while the Melodic switch delivers a more resonant and crunchy sound with a buttery and invigorating typing sensation. If you are looking for a specific sound or feel in your mechanical keyboard, understanding the qualities of each switch can help guide your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch or the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, you should take into account your preference for sound and typing feel. If you enjoy a higher-pitched, clacky sound and a smoother typing experience, the Ink Box Pink may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a resonant, crunchy sound with a buttery, invigorating typing feel, the Melodic switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and typing experience.
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