Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the TTC Neptune stand out as unique options. The Gateron Ink Box Pink offers a smooth and lighter typing feel with a higher-pitched clack, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a more polished and clacky typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune features an innovative internal structure that provides a smooth, almost frictionless glide combined with a springy resistance reminiscent of chewy delights like mochi or tapioca pearls. This unique matte feel and ultralight design offer a buttery and gummy typing experience with a muted sound signature, making each keystroke a textured pleasure. Both switches have their own distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, but importantly, 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
41g
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
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Box Pink features a proprietary INK blend top housing that offers a relatively high-pitched and clacky sound profile, while the TTC Neptune utilizes a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. In terms of aesthetics, the INK blend top housing is not as visually striking as the translucent polycarbonate used in the Neptune, which is especially useful for showcasing RGB lighting. The bottom housings also differ between the two switches, with the INK blend providing a pointed and higher-pitched sound profile, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Neptune creates a sharper and crisper sound due to its stiffness.
When comparing the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the TTC Neptune, it is clear that the material used in each component has a significant impact on the overall sound profile of the switch. The INK blend top housing contributes to a thin and higher-pitched sound that is described as clacky, while the POM top housing of the Neptune produces a deeper and more muted sound. Similarly, the bottom housings play a role in the switch's sound profile, with the INK blend bottom housing adding to the high-pitched sound of the switch and the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Neptune creating a clear and resonant sound.
In terms of functionality, both the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the TTC Neptune offer unique sound profiles thanks to their different housing materials. While the INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Pink provides a satisfying clacky sound, the POM top housing of the Neptune offers a deeper and more muted sound experience. The use of polycarbonate in the Neptune's bottom housing further enhances its sound profile, making it a popular choice for those looking for a switch with a clear and resonant sound. Overall, the choice between the two switches will ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound and aesthetics.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, it is evident that the Neptune is the lighter of the two switches. The Ink Box Pink has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a medium level of resistance. In contrast, the Neptune requires a lighter touch with an actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. Both switches provide a smooth linear feel, but the difference in weight may appeal to different preferences. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the TTC Neptune, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may lean towards the Gateron Ink Box Pink. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the TTC Neptune linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those looking for quicker response times. Gamers, in particular, might appreciate the shorter travel distance of the Ink Box Pink for faster gameplay. However, those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes may lean towards the Neptune with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and what feels most comfortable to the user.
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 TTC Neptune has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Neptune for $5.09.
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 switch is known for its high-pitched and clacky sound profile, offering a sharp and crisp auditory experience when typing. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune switch is described as having a low-pitched, muted sound that provides a more bass-heavy and mellow tone while keeping the noise level refined and unobtrusive. Depending on personal preference, the user can choose between the sharper sound of the Ink Box Pink or the more subdued sound of the Neptune, both offering a unique auditory experience depending on the context in which they are used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch is known for providing a silky and polished typing experience, offering smooth key travel and minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. In contrast, the TTC Neptune switch offers a buttery and frictionless typing sensation, with a unique "matte" feel that merges smoothness with a springy resistance, reminiscent of chewy delights like mochi or tapioca pearls. Whether one prefers the silky and polished feel of the Ink Box Pink or the buttery and frictionless feel of the Neptune, both switches provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience based on individual preferences.
In conclusion, when comparing the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, it becomes evident that they offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Box Pink provides a high-pitched and clacky sound with a silky and polished typing feel, while the Neptune offers a low-pitched and muted sound with a buttery and frictionless typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on the user's preference for sound profile and typing feel, with both switches delivering a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, consider the key characteristics of each switch. If you prefer a slightly heavier typing feel with a higher-pitched clack sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter actuation force and a unique matte feel with a muted sound profile, the TTC Neptune could be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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