Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. KTT Miaowu
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the KTT Miaowu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the KTT Miaowu mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches, there are notable differences and similarities to consider. The Ink Box Pink is admired for its smooth and light typing feel, along with a distinctive higher-pitched clack. On the other hand, the Miaowu offers enhanced stem stability and a bouncy feel thanks to KTT's latest molds and innovative POK stem material. Each switch has its unique characteristics that may appeal to different preferences. 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
43g
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
POK
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the KTT Miaowu, one key difference lies in the top housing material. The Ink Box Pink features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which gives off a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile described as clacky. On the other hand, the Miaowu boasts a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials offer a clear and resonant sound, the polycarbonate top housing of the Miaowu is known for its stiffer composition, which contributes to a more defined sound when typing.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the differences between the two switches become more apparent. The Gateron Ink Box Pink utilizes its proprietary INK blend bottom housing, which mirrors the characteristics of the top housing with a pointed and high-pitched sound profile. In contrast, the KTT Miaowu features a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. This difference in material composition results in a varying sound experience when typing on the switches, with the Ink Box Pink offering a sharper sound and the Miaowu providing a more mellow and rounder sound.
Overall, while both the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the KTT Miaowu offer unique sound profiles due to their top and bottom housing materials, they ultimately cater to different preferences. The Ink Box Pink's blend offers a consistent high-pitched sound profile throughout, while the Miaowu's combination of polycarbonate and nylon creates a more dynamic typing experience with contrasting tones. Whether you prefer a clacky sound profile or a deeper, fuller sound, both switches provide distinct characteristics that cater to a variety of typing preferences and styles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, it is evident that there are differences in their weights. The Gateron Ink Box Pink has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the KTT Miaowu's lighter actuation force of 43 grams. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Ink Box Pink at 60 grams is heavier than the Miaowu's 50 grams. The heavier weight of the Gateron Ink Box Pink may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the lighter weight of the KTT Miaowu may be more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. Overall, the weight variance between the two switches offers users the option to choose based on their preference for lighter or heavier forces during typing or gaming activities.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the KTT Miaowu linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Miaowu switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Ink Box Pink switch. The Ink Box Pink switch falls closer to the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance, while the Miaowu switch is on the shallower end at 3.5 mm. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Miaowu switch due to its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more tactile feel may lean towards the Ink Box Pink switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of keypress feel and responsiveness.
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 KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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 known for its high-pitched and clacky sound profile, creating a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu switch also has a clacky sound, but lacks the descriptor of being high-pitched. Both switches will provide a satisfying sound experience, especially when paired with the right keyboard and keycaps.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch is praised for its silky and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and refined feel with minimal resistance. Conversely, the KTT Miaowu switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation with a lively rebound when pressed. While the Miaowu switch may offer a different tactile experience compared to the smoother feel of the Ink Box Pink, both switches excel in providing a comfortable typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Ink Box Pink and KTT Miaowu switches excel in different subjective qualities. The Ink Box Pink offers a high-pitched and clacky sound with a silky and polished feel, while the Miaowu switch provides a similar clacky sound with a bouncy and spring-like tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel, with both switches delivering a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a higher-pitched, clacky sound with a silky and polished typing feel, then the Ink Box Pink may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a clacky sound with a bouncy feel, then the Miaowu switch could be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what typing experience you value the most.
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