Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Gateron North Pole V2

Overview

When it comes to comparing and contrasting mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Gateron North Pole V2 are two options worth considering. The Ink Box Pink is known for its smoothness and lighter typing feel compared to other switches, delivering a higher-pitched clack during use. In contrast, the North Pole V2 offers a delightful linear switch experience with a gummy typing feel and a deep, muted sound profile. Both switches boast a polished finish, but the Ink Box Pink falls into the category of being clacky and high-pitched, while the North Pole V2 is described as gummy, creamy, subdued, and bouncy. These general characteristics provide a good starting point for choosing a switch, but let's dive deeper beyond generalities to help you make the best decision based on your preferences.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Box Pink Linear

Gateron North Pole V2 Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Gateron North Pole V2 have distinct differences in their housing materials. The Ink Box Pink uses a proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housing, while the North Pole V2 utilizes polycarbonate for both components. The INK blend in the Ink Box Pink creates a pointed, high-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. In contrast, the polycarbonate in the North Pole V2 produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances clarity and resonance. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for incorporating RGB lighting in the top housing. Overall, while the Ink Box Pink and the North Pole V2 differ in their housing materials, they both offer satisfying sound profiles with distinct characteristics.

One significant difference between the housing materials of the Ink Box Pink and the North Pole V2 lies in the top housing. The INK blend in the Ink Box Pink creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is not overly sharp. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the North Pole V2 produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. This difference can impact the overall sound experience when using the switches. While the Ink Box Pink offers a smoother and more muted sound, the North Pole V2 provides a crisper and more pronounced sound. Depending on personal preferences, users may choose either switch based on their desired sound profile.

The bottom housing in both the Ink Box Pink and the North Pole V2 shares similarities in terms of their impact on the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing in both switches contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. However, the materials used in their construction differ. The INK blend in the Ink Box Pink and the polycarbonate in the North Pole V2 create distinct characteristics in their sound profiles. While the INK blend offers a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound described as clacky, the polycarbonate provides a sharper and crisper bottom-out sound. Both switches offer a satisfying experience when it comes to the bottom-out sound, but the choice between them will depend on the level of sharpness and clarity preferred by the user.

In conclusion, the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Gateron North Pole V2 contribute to their unique sound profiles. The INK blend in the Ink Box Pink produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, while the polycarbonate in the North Pole V2 creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it suitable for incorporating RGB lighting. The bottom housing in both switches impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, with the INK blend offering a clacky sound and the polycarbonate contributing a sharper and crisper sound. While there are differences, both switches deliver satisfying results, allowing users to choose based on their preferred sound characteristics.

Weight

When considering the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. Both switches have an actuation force of 50 grams, meaning that the force required to trigger a keystroke is the same for both switches. As a result, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sensitivity and responsiveness.

However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a distinction between the two switches. The Gateron Ink Box Pink has a bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating a medium level of resistance when pressing the key all the way down. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 has a slightly higher bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy in terms of resistance.

Considering weight is an important factor for many users, as it can significantly impact typing comfort and endurance. Those who prefer a lighter feel, allowing them to type for extended periods without fatigue, may lean towards the Gateron Ink Box Pink with its lower bottom out force. This switch would be ideal for individuals who frequently use their keyboards for work or engage in lengthy gaming sessions.

Alternatively, some users may prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. These individuals may gravitate towards the Gateron North Pole V2, which has a slightly higher bottom out force, providing a greater sense of resistance and feedback. This can be particularly appealing for those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience.

In summary, while both the Gateron Ink Box Pink and Gateron North Pole V2 switches share the same actuation force, their bottom out forces differ. The Ink Box Pink offers a medium resistance, while the North Pole V2 provides a medium-heavy resistance. The choice between these switches ultimately depends on individual preferences for typing feel and endurance during extended use.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, it is clear that the Ink Box Pink has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the North Pole V2 has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Ink Box Pink falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it a popular choice among gamers who prioritize quick response times. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 offers a slightly deeper travel distance, which may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a more substantial key press. Both switches provide their own benefits, so it ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is best known for its beautiful translucent design, smoothness, and lighter typing feel. When it comes to sound, the Ink Box Pink provides a clacky experience, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. The sound profile is higher-pitched, with a crisp, bright, and percussive tone. In terms of feel, the Ink Box Pink offers a silky and polished typing experience. It provides an exceptionally smooth typing feel with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The switch has a refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.

On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch is best described as "gummy." When typing on these switches, the sound profile is deep and muted. The North Pole V2 offers a subdued typing experience, dampening the sound when pressed. In terms of feel, the North Pole V2 provides a unique and satisfying chewy sensation. The switch feels like bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. It also offers a creamy and bouncy feedback, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience with a spring-like rebound.

Based on the available information, the sound and feel qualities of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Gateron North Pole V2 are quite different. The Ink Box Pink provides a higher-pitched and clacky sound, while the North Pole V2 offers a deep and muted sound with a gummy typing feel. The Ink Box Pink prioritizes smoothness and a lighter typing feel, while the North Pole V2 focuses on a chewy and satisfying experience. If you prefer the sound and feel of the Ink Box Pink, you can expect a crisp and bright sound with a silky and polished typing feel. Similarly, if you choose the North Pole V2, you will get a subdued sound and a unique gummy typing feel.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a smoother and lighter typing feel, along with a higher-pitched clack sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deep and muted sound profile, along with a satisfying chewy typing feel, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch would be more suitable. Additionally, if you prefer switches with a gummy or bouncy typing experience, the North Pole V2 would be a better fit. However, if you value a silky or polished typing experience, both switches offer this sensation. Ultimately, your decision should be based on personal preference and the specific typing experience you desire. Both switches are reliable and high-quality options, so you can't go wrong with either choice. In the end, make sure to consider the sound and feel characteristics that align with your preferences and requirements.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Box Pink Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more

Gateron North Pole V2 Linear

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

Learn more