Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing and contrasting the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Cherry MX Silent Red mechanical keyboard switches, it is important to consider their unique characteristics. The Ink Box Pink switch is praised for its smooth and lighter typing feel, along with a higher-pitched clack that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red maintains the classic attributes of the MX Red but operates silently, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. While the Ink Box Pink is known for its 'clacky' and 'high-pitched' qualities, the MX Silent Red is described as 'muted' and 'thocky'. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, but the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific needs. 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
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Cherry MX Silent Red, we can see that the Ink Box Pink uses a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housing, while the MX Silent Red uses nylon for both. While the INK blend provides a relatively high-pitched and clacky sound profile, nylon creates a deeper and fuller sound that is softer and more absorbent. This means that typing on the Ink Box Pink will result in a thinner and higher-pitched sound compared to the MX Silent Red's duller and rounder sound.
One noticeable difference between the two housing materials is their impact on the sound when pressing down on a key. The bottom housing of the Gateron Ink Box Pink has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound when releasing a key. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red's nylon housing affects both the bottom-out and release sound profiles with its absorbent and softer qualities. This means that the typing experience on these switches will offer differing levels of feedback and sound depending on the housing material used.
While the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Cherry MX Silent Red may have different housing materials, the overall typing experience for both switches can still provide similar results. Both switches aim to offer a quieter typing experience, with the MX Silent Red achieving this through its nylon housing and the Ink Box Pink through its proprietary INK blend. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and feel, as both housing materials offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, there are some noticeable differences. The Gateron Ink Box Pink has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a medium level of resistance. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. The lighter actuation force of the MX Silent Red may be preferable for those who prefer to type for longer periods of time without experiencing fatigue. However, some users may find the heavier bottom out force of the Ink Box Pink to provide a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. This makes the Cherry MX Silent Red slightly longer in terms of travel distance. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may prefer the Gateron Ink Box Pink for its slightly shorter travel distance, providing faster response times. On the other hand, some users may find the Cherry MX Silent Red more to their liking due to its slightly longer travel distance, offering a more satisfying depth when typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of 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 Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is known for its high-pitched and clacky sound profile, making each keystroke sharp and snappy. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch provides a muted and thocky sound, significantly reducing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. In terms of feel, the Ink Box Pink offers a silky and polished typing experience, enhancing overall smoothness and minimizing resistance when pressing keys. Conversely, the MX Silent Red is described as textured, potentially providing a different tactile feel during typing. It's important to note that both switches offer a linear typing experience, so the feel of actuating the keys will be similar despite these sound and feel differences. Ultimately, choosing between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and Cherry MX Silent Red switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel, as well as consideration for noise sensitivity in your environment.
Conclusion
To summarize, if you are looking for a smoother and lighter typing experience with a higher-pitched clacky sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier and quieter typing experience with a muted, thocky sound profile, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch would be more suitable. Consider your environment and personal preferences when deciding between these two switches, as they offer different sound and feel characteristics for your typing enjoyment. Ultimately, both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and needs.
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