Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Gateron New North Pole V2

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Gateron New North Pole V2. The Ink Box Pink is best known for its smooth typing experience and lighter feel compared to other switches. It also produces a higher-pitched clack sound when in use. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 stands out for its crisp typing experience, as the removal of the rubber dampener provides a more satisfying tactile feedback. While both switches share the characteristic of a polished and smooth operation, the New North Pole V2 offers a creamy and frictionless typing experience that users have grown to love. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Box Pink Linear

Gateron New North Pole V2 Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Gateron New North Pole V2 differ in terms of sound profiles and aesthetics. The Ink Box Pink features a proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate, being a relatively stiffer plastic, contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the switch.

Despite their differences, both switches offer satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound profiles. While the Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend housing creates a clacky sound, the polycarbonate housing of the New North Pole V2 produces a sharper and crisper sound. However, it should be noted that the top and bottom housings of a switch play different roles in sound production. The qualities brought by each housing material will be split between the bottom and top of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when the key is released. Therefore, regardless of the housing material, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying sound experience during typi

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, we find some similarities and slight differences. Both switches have the same actuation force of 50 grams, meaning that the force required to trigger a keystroke on both switches is identical. This ensures a consistent and responsive typing experience for users. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a slight variation. The Ink Box Pink has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the New North Pole V2 has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 62.5 grams. This makes the New North Pole V2 slightly heavier in terms of the force required to fully press down on the switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Ink Box Pink might be the better choice, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 provides a more substantial push feel, which some users may prefer for a more tactile and satisfying typing experience. Overall, both switches offer a medium actuation force, but the New North Pole V2 is slightly heavier in terms of the bottom out force.

Travel distance

The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches offer a shorter travel distance compared to the more traditional 4.0 mm, making them suitable choices for those who prioritize faster response times. However, the Ink Box Pink has a slightly shorter travel distance, which may be preferred by gamers who want an even quicker and more responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a deeper and more satisfying key press for those who enjoy a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences, with the shorter travel distance of the Ink Box Pink maximizing speed and the longer travel distance of the New North Pole V2 offering a greater sense of depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink is known for its clacky and high-pitched nature. Pressing these switches will result in a sharp and snappy sound, giving a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory experience. On the other hand, information about the New North Pole V2's sound is unknown. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is not solely determined by the switch itself but is also influenced by factors like the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.

In terms of feel, both the Ink Box Pink and the New North Pole V2 deliver a polished typing experience due to their smooth and refined finishes. These switches offer reduced friction, resulting in sleek and effortless key travel. Additionally, the Ink Box Pink is described as silky and smooth, enhancing the typing feel and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The New North Pole V2 also offers a creamy sensation, which refers to a smooth and buttery typing experience. This can be attributed to lubrication applied at the factory or specific materials used. Both switches provide a frictionless typing experience, enabling fluid and effortless keystrokes.

In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches offer different subjective qualities. The Ink Box Pink provides a clacky sound with a lighter typing feel and a silky, polished sensation. On the other hand, information about the sound of the New North Pole V2 is unknown, but it offers a similar polished feel with a creamy and frictionless typing experience. It's worth mentioning that the overall sound and feel of the switches depend on various factors, including the chosen keyboard board and keycaps.

Conclusion

In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you prioritize a lighter typing feel and enjoy a higher-pitched clack sound, then the Ink Box Pink may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a crisper typing experience and appreciate the frictionless typing feel that the North Pole lineup is known for, the New North Pole V2 switch might be more suitable. Both switches offer a smooth and polished typing experience, with the New North Pole V2 also offering a creamy sensation. Overall, consider your preferred bottom out force, sound profile, and desired typing feel when making your decision. Happy typing!

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Box Pink Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more

Gateron New North Pole V2 Linear

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

Learn more