Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Cherry MX Red, both of which are linear switches. The Gateron Ink Box Pink is favored for its smooth and lighter typing feel, along with a higher-pitched clack, making it ideal for those who enjoy a polished and silky typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red offers a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, delivering a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. Each switch has its own unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
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 Red, it is evident that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housing components. The Ink Box Pink boasts a proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing, known for its pointed and high-pitched sound profile, resulting in a clacky typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red features a nylon top and bottom housing, delivering a deeper and fuller sound profile that is described as duller and rounder. Despite the differences in sound characteristics, both housing materials offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences.
In terms of sound profiles, the Gateron Ink Box Pink's INK blend top and bottom housing create a thin and higher-pitched sound that is distinctively clacky, providing a satisfying typing experience for users who prefer a sharper sound. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red's nylon top and bottom housing produce a deeper and fuller sound that is softer and more absorbent, resulting in a rounder typing experience. While the sound profiles vary between the two switches, both housing materials offer a tactile and responsive typing experience that can cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Cherry MX Red housing materials ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience. The INK blend top and bottom housing of the Ink Box Pink provide a unique clacky sound profile, while the nylon top and bottom housing of the MX Red offer a deeper and fuller typing experience. Whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound or a softer, rounder sound, both switches deliver exceptional performance and tactile feedback that make them popular choices among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Gateron Ink Box Pink has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Cherry MX Red's 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gateron Ink Box Pink requires 60 grams while the Cherry MX Red's bottom out force is unknown. This makes the Gateron Ink Box Pink a slightly heavier option in terms of both actuation and bottom out force. In terms of weight, the Gateron Ink Box Pink would be more suitable for those who prefer a slightly heavier typing experience, while the Cherry MX Red might be preferred by those who prefer a lighter feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, it is clear that the Ink Box Pink has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the MX Red has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Ink Box Pink's shorter travel distance may appeal to those seeking faster response times, such as gamers, while the MX Red's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth for others. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the MX Red being more standard at 4 mm. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for responsiveness and key feel.
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 Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch offers a high-pitched and clacky typing experience, characterized by a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red linear switch provides a deeper and thocky sound profile, resulting in a more rich and bass-heavy tone. While the Ink Box Pink delivers a brighter and percussive sound, the MX Red offers a deeper and more satisfying auditory experience, which can be a matter of personal preference depending on whether one prefers a higher-pitched or lower-pitched sound. It's important to consider that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard design and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is known for its silky and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and refined keypress with minimal resistance. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red linear switch is described as textured, indicating a noticeable friction when pressed that may or may not be preferred by some users. The polished feel of the Ink Box Pink enhances the overall smoothness of the typing experience, while the textured nature of the MX Red provides a different tactile sensation that some users may find appealing.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch offer distinct sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences. The Ink Box Pink provides a lighter and clackier sound with a silky and polished typing feel, while the MX Red delivers a deeper and thockier sound with a textured typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Keep in mind that both switches are linear, so if you prefer a certain quality of one, you would likely get similar results with the other in terms of that specific aspect.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch or the Cherry MX Red linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and sound profile. If you prefer a lighter and smoother typing experience with a higher-pitched, clacky sound, the Ink Box Pink may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heftier feel with a deeper, thocky sound profile, the MX Red may be more to your liking. Consider the characteristics of each switch and how they align with your typing preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches is subjective and based on individual preferences.
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