Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a multitude of options to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics. Two switches that stand out in terms of their distinct qualities are the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry. The Gateron Ink Box Pink is a linear switch that offers a smooth typing experience with a lighter feel compared to other mechanical switches. Its higher-pitched clack adds a touch of elegance to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry is a tactile switch that features a sharp tactile bump, providing feedback for those who appreciate a pronounced typing feel. While the Blueberry switch produces a sound frequency that is lower-than-average, it is not "thocky" but rather deeper and more resonant. These general attributes make both switches appealing in their own right. However, let's delve further into the specifics of these switches to help you decide which one is the best fit for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry have distinct characteristics that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The Ink Box Pink features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. This creates a clacky and satisfying sound when typing. In contrast, the NovelKeys Blueberry utilizes a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper sound profile that is relatively more muted. The POM top housing gives the Blueberry switch a unique and pleasing sound.
Both switches also have bottom housings made from different materials. The INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Pink contributes to its pointed and high-pitched sound profile, similar to its top housing. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing of the Blueberry switch adds to its deeper sound profile. The housing material of the bottom portion of the switch has a greater impact on the switch's bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, when pressing down on the switch, you can expect to feel the qualities of the bottom housing more prominently.
In terms of the sound when releasing a key, the top housing material plays a more significant role. When you let go of a key on the Ink Box Pink switch, the clacky and higher-pitched sound produced by the INK blend top housing will be more pronounced. Conversely, the POM top housing of the Blueberry switch will result in a relatively more muted sound when a key is released.
In summary, while the Ink Box Pink and the NovelKeys Blueberry have different housing materials, they both provide unique and satisfying sound profiles. The INK blend top and bottom housing of the Ink Box Pink creates a clacky and high-pitched sound, while the POM top and bottom housing of the Blueberry switch produces a deeper and more muted sound. Both switches offer distinct typing experiences, showcasing the impact of housing materials on the overall sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, there are notable differences. The Ink Box Pink has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Blueberry's slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams. This means that the Pink switch requires less pressure to register a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Ink Box Pink still remains lighter with a force of 60 grams, while the Blueberry takes a heavier 80 grams. Despite these differences, both switches provide similar results in terms of tactile feedback and durability. It ultimately comes down to personal preference - those who prefer a lighter and easier typing experience may opt for the Ink Box Pink, while individuals who enjoy a more substantial and pronounced tactile feedback may opt for the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches offer a shorter travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, making them ideal for those seeking faster response times. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance as it allows for quicker keystrokes. However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial feel and deeper key press, the switch with the longer travel distance would be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness or depth.
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 Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Blueberry for $6.25.
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 and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offer different subjective qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Ink Box Pink is known for its high-pitched and clacky sound, which produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry has a lower-pitched and resonant sound, offering a more bass-heavy and immersive auditory experience. It is not as deep as a "thocky" sound, but still provides a satisfying tone.
In terms of feel, the Ink Box Pink is described as silky and polished. These switches offer an exceptionally smooth typing experience with reduced friction and minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This smoothness enhances the overall feel of typing and provides a sleek experience. On the contrary, the NovelKeys Blueberry is snappy and buttery. These switches are super responsive and provide a seamless and uniform typing sensation. The longer or dual-staged springs in the Blueberry switches contribute to a more alive and fluid keystroke experience. Additionally, the Blueberry switches can have a slightly textured feel, which may be preferred by some users who appreciate a bit of friction.
Considering the available information, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Box Pink provides a higher-pitched and clacky sound, while the Blueberry offers a lower-pitched and resonant tone. In terms of feel, the Ink Box Pink offers a silky and polished experience with smooth key travel, while the Blueberry gives a snappy and buttery feel with a potential for a textured sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience. However, if you are looking for similar results, you may find that the Ink Box Pink and Blueberry switches offer comparable smoothness and responsiveness in their respective switch types.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smoother and lighter typing experience with a higher-pitched clack sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a sharper tactile bump with a lower-than-average sound frequency, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch would be more suitable. The Ink Box Pink offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, while the Blueberry provides a low-pitched and resonant sound experience. In terms of feel, the Ink Box Pink offers a silky and polished typing experience with minimal resistance, while the Blueberry is snappy, buttery, textured, invigorating, and relatively stiffer to press. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your preferences for typing feel and sound profile.
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