Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream. On one hand, the Ink Box Pink offers a smooth and light typing experience, along with a higher-pitched clack that adds a touch of elegance to each keystroke. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', and 'Polished', these translucent switches provide a unique aesthetic appeal. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream switches provide a heftier linear typing experience, giving a satisfyingly deep sound profile without becoming overwhelming. Classified as 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', 'Resonant', and 'Invigorating', these switches offer a more substantial feel. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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 Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream have different housing materials, which result in distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Ink Box Pink utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housing. This blend creates a slightly high-pitched and clacky sound when pressed down, providing a satisfying and unique typing experience. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream features a POM top housing that produces a deeper and relatively muted sound. This sound profile creates a more subtle and soothing typing experience compared to the Ink Box Pink.
Although they have different housing materials, both switches deliver pleasing results. The Ink Box Pink's INK blend housing is known for its pointed and clacky sound, while the NovelKeys Cream's POM housing creates a deeper and more muted sound. Despite these differences, these switches generate satisfying typing experiences with their distinct sound profiles. Both switches offer unique options for individuals seeking specific auditory feedback while typing.
When comparing the top and bottom housing materials of these switches, it is important to note that the bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, the qualities of the Ink Box Pink's bottom housing, characterized by its high-pitched yet not overly sharp sound profile, contribute largely to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the top housing of the switch, whether it be the proprietary INK blend or the POM material, affects the sound when releasing a key. These differences highlight the importance of considering both the top and bottom housing materials when choosing a switch that caters to individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Gateron Ink Box Pink has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the NovelKeys Cream's 55 grams. This means that it requires slightly less pressure to trigger a keystroke on the Ink Box Pink. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Ink Box Pink requires 60 grams of force, while the NovelKeys Cream is heavier at 70 grams. This means that the NovelKeys Cream provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel.
For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gateron Ink Box Pink would be a suitable choice. The lighter actuation force allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it ideal for those who spend extended hours using their keyboards for work or gaming. On the other hand, for individuals who prefer a more substantial feel while typing, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream offers a heavier actuation and bottom out force. This provides a satisfying tactile feedback and a sense of stability during each keystroke.
It is worth noting that both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Therefore, regardless of the preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience, users can achieve similar results with these switches. However, it is important to consider personal preferences and typing habits when selecting between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream, as the slight variations in force can significantly impact the overall typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch's travel distance of 4 mm. The difference of 0.4 mm may seem minimal, but it can have a noticeable impact on the typing experience. The Ink Box Pink offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers and those seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream provides a slightly longer travel distance, which can provide a more satisfying and deeper keystroke for individuals who prefer a more substantial feel. Both switches offer a different tactile experience, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Cream 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 Cream 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched characteristics. The sharp and snappy sound produced when pressing the keys can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch offers a deeper sound profile compared to the average switch, although not excessively so. The Cream switch is described as low-pitched and resonant, resulting in a more bass-heavy and mellow tone with a clean and sharp sound profile. The choice of board and keycaps can also influence the sound produced by these switches. Overall, if you prefer a higher-pitched and clacky sound, the Ink Box Pink is a good option, while the Cream switch provides a deeper and resonant sound.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch offers a silky and polished typing experience. These switches are exceptionally smooth, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The typing feel is enhanced by the overall smoothness of these switches, allowing for effortless key travel. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch provides a buttery and textured keystroke experience. The switches offer a seamless and uniform typing sensation, with a smooth and fluid keystroke. However, some users may notice a subtle texture that adds a desired friction, while others prefer a smoother and friction-free typing experience. Additionally, the Cream switch is described as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback and a firm actuation force, resulting in a snappy and reactive feel.
Taking all the available information into account, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches offer distinct subjective qualities. The Ink Box Pink switch produces a higher-pitched and clacky sound, while providing a silky and polished typing feel. On the other hand, the Cream switch offers a deeper and resonant sound profile, with a buttery and textured keystroke experience that is slightly invigorating. Both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance the typing experience based on individual preferences. If you're looking for a similar sound and feel, the Ink Box Pink may provide a slightly lighter and smoother typing experience compared to the Cream switch. However, it's important to consider the overall setup, including the keyboard and keycaps, as they can influence the final result.
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 would be a great choice for you. With its medium bottom out force of 60 grams, it offers a silky and polished feel, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The Ink Box Pink switch is perfect for those who prefer a crisp, bright, and percussive sound when typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a heftier linear typing experience with a deeper sound profile, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch is worth considering. It has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams and is known for its low-pitched and resonant sound. The Cream switch provides a buttery and invigorating typing sensation, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Overall, the choice between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches depends on your preferred typing feel and sound profile.
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