Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Haimu Neo White
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Haimu Neo White 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 Haimu Neo White, both of which are linear switches. The Gateron Ink Box Pink is beloved 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 Haimu Neo White offers a unique typing experience with its medium weight and reduced total travel, thanks in part to the rare Ly stem it utilizes for smooth actuation. While the Ink Box Pink is known for its clacky and high-pitched characteristics, the Neo White is described as mild and neutral. Each switch has its own strengths depending on personal preferences and typing style; 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
58g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Box Pink and Haimu Neo White switches both boast unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Ink Box Pink features a proprietary INK blend top housing that provides a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound, described as clacky. On the other hand, the Neo White utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials offer a similar high-pitched sound, the polycarbonate top housing of the Neo White is noted for its stiffer nature and clear translucency, making it ideal for RGB lighting enthusiasts.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Gateron Ink Box Pink continues to use its proprietary INK blend, resulting in a pointed and satisfyingly clacky sound profile. In contrast, the Haimu Neo White employs a nylon bottom housing, which is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. This difference in bottom housing material contributes to the overall typing feel and sound experience of each switch, with the Ink Box Pink offering a sharper bottom-out sound and the Neo White providing a softer, fuller sound experience.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and Haimu Neo White switches offer varying sound profiles, the impact of each material is split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing material has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing material affects the sound when a key is released. Both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in determining the sound and feel of mechanical keyboards, with the choice between the INK blend and polycarbonate for the top housing, and nylon for the bottom housing, catering to different preferences in sound and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, their actuation and bottom out forces reveal some differences. The Ink Box Pink has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Neo White, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Neo White requires slightly less force at 58 grams compared to the Ink Box Pink's 60 grams. Both switches fall under the medium weight category, making them suitable for a variety of users. Those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Ink Box Pink, while those seeking a bit more resistance may lean towards the Neo White. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Haimu Neo White linear switches have a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This makes them equal in terms of the distance you feel when using them. Overall, both switches offer a consistent experience in terms of travel distance, providing a similar feeling to the user when typing.
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 Haimu Neo White comes in at $2.70 per 10 switches.
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 nature, making each keystroke sharp and crisp. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White switch offers a more neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. While the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, those looking for a brighter and more percussive sound may lean towards the Ink Box Pink, while those seeking a more moderate and versatile sound may prefer the Neo White.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch is lauded for its silky and polished typing experience, offering minimal resistance and a refined key travel. Conversely, the Haimu Neo White switch provides a milder typing experience, suited for those who prefer a gentler touch without sacrificing smoothness. Both switches offer a satisfying tactile feel, but the choice between a more pronounced smoothness with the Ink Box Pink or a safe middle-ground feel with the Neo White ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Overall, while the Gateron Ink Box Pink and Haimu Neo White switches may differ in sound and feel characteristics, both provide a smooth and enjoyable typing experience. Whether you prefer a higher-pitched clack or a neutral sound, a silky and polished feel or a milder touch, these switches cater to varying preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. Ultimately, trying out both switches would be the best way to determine which aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a slightly lighter typing feel with a higher-pitched clack sound, the Ink Box Pink may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium weight with a smooth actuation and a more neutral sound profile, the Neo White switch would be a suitable choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel, sound, and overall typing experience. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so make sure to choose the one that aligns with your individual needs and preferences.
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