Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Cherry MX Orange
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Cherry MX Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Cherry MX Orange both offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Gateron Ink Box Pink switches are celebrated for their beautiful translucent design and a notably lighter typing feel, delivering a smooth experience complemented by a higher-pitched clack that adds a distinctive auditory element to your typing. Meanwhile, the Cherry MX Orange switches, a reissue of the beloved original MX Orange, have been enhanced with the MX2A generation improvements, appealing to those who appreciate their robust and consistent feel. While the Ink Box Pink is ideal for those who enjoy a silky and polished typing experience, the MX Orange provides reliability and a more classic touch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Nylon
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Cherry MX Orange switches, a notable distinction lies in their construction. The Gateron Ink Box Pink employs a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housings, which produces a pointed, higher-pitched sound that is often described as "clacky." This attribute is indicative of the characteristics inherent to the INK blend, which delivers a sharp auditory profile during typing. Conversely, the Cherry MX Orange switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This classic material provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs sound more effectively, thus resulting in a rounder auditory experience. The differences in sound quality produced by these materials highlight the unique typing experiences each switch offers.
While both switches are designed to facilitate distinct auditory sensations, the impact of their respective materials is particularly evident when pressing the keys. In the case of the Ink Box Pink, the high-pitched, clacky sound resonates predominantly from the INK blend material throughout the switch's construction. Conversely, the MX Orange's nylon provides a more muted bass tone that contributes to a more subdued typing experience. It's essential to recognize that if the top and bottom housings are constructed from different materials, the differing qualities affect how the sound and feel manifest during use. For instance, the Ink Box Pink’s more pronounced top housing influence will be felt at the top-out sound, while the MX Orange’s nylon composition enriches the bottom-out sound.
Ultimately, users seeking a satisfying auditory typing experience will discern the contrasting effects of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Cherry MX Orange based predominantly on their housing materials. The INK blend likely promotes a sharp sound that appeals to those preferring a lively auditory feedback, while the nylon in the MX Orange generates a more subdued experience more suitable for quieter environments. However, if one were to combine the strengths of each set of materials, it would highlight that similar results can be achieved in the realm of sound profiles when accounting for how housing materials influence sound depending on their position in the switch construction. By understanding the implications of each material on both bottom and top-out sounds, users can better select the switch that aligns with their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, several distinctions emerge. The Ink Box Pink has an actuation force of 50 grams, which is lighter than the Cherry MX Orange's actuation force of 55 grams. This means that the Ink Box Pink requires less force to register a keystroke, making it potentially more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the Cherry MX Orange, being heavier, might appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel during use. However, the bottom out force for the Cherry MX Orange is not specified, leaving that aspect unknown. In contrast, the Ink Box Pink has a bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating that it takes more force to press the switch all the way down compared to its actuation. Overall, users looking for a lighter switch will find the Ink Box Pink suitable, while those who prefer a heavier switch with more tactile feedback may lean towards the Cherry MX Orange, despite its incomplete bottom out specification.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cherry MX Orange linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Ink Box Pink offers a shorter key travel distance compared to the MX Orange. Due to its reduced travel distance, the Ink Box Pink may provide a more responsive feel that is appealing to gamers seeking quicker actions. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange, with its longer travel distance, may deliver a more substantial and traditional typing experience that some users prefer for its satisfying depth. Therefore, those looking for faster response times might gravitate towards the Gateron Ink Box Pink, while those who appreciate a deeper keystroke might choose the Cherry MX Orange.
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 Cherry MX Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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 switches are characterized by a higher-pitched, clacky output that produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. This quality can give a vibrant auditory feedback that's both bright and percussive, appealing to those who enjoy a lively typing experience. In contrast, the sound profile of the Cherry MX Orange switches remains unspecified, which suggests that they may not possess the same distinctively bright and sharp characteristics of the Ink Box Pink. Keep in mind that the overall sound is influenced by various factors, including the choice of keyboard board and keycaps, meaning that the audible experience can vary significantly with either switch.
In terms of feel, the Ink Box Pink switches stand out for their silky and polished characteristics. This means they offer an exceptionally smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance during key presses and releases. The materials and potential factory lubing enhance the overall feel, leading to a sleek and refined typing experience. As with the sound profile, the feel of the MX Orange switches is not detailed in the available information, indicating that they may not deliver the same level of smoothness or user-friendly experiences as the Ink Box Pink.
In summary, while the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switches provide a unique blend of high-pitched auditory feedback and a remarkably smooth feel, the Cherry MX Orange switches lack specific descriptions on both sound and feel. Those who prioritize a lively sound and silky typing experience would likely lean towards the Ink Box Pink switches, whereas the MX Orange, with unspecified qualities, leaves the door open for various outcomes. Thus, if the feel and sound of the MX Orange are aligned in certain contexts, users may find satisfactory results regardless of the lack of detailed descriptors.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Cherry MX Orange linear switches will largely depend on your personal preferences in typing experience and sound. If you lean towards a smoother, more refined feel with a higher-pitched, clacky sound profile, the Ink Box Pink is likely the better option for you. These switches offer a silky and polished typing experience, making them suitable for both gaming and extensive typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a more balanced feel and the nostalgic essence of the original MX Orange switches, you may find yourself drawn to the MX Orange. While specific force ratings and sound characteristics for the MX Orange are less detailed, they do carry the reputation of being a reliable choice among enthusiasts. Ultimately, consider your typing habits and audio preferences—if you delight in pronounced sounds and an ultra-smooth touch, go for the Ink Box Pink; but if you seek a dependable, all-around switch with historical significance, the MX Orange could be the way to go.
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