Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Gateron Oil King
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Gateron Oil King switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, you may be torn between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Gateron Oil King. Both switches offer their own unique advantages and features that cater to different preferences. The Ink Box Pink is known for its beautiful translucent design and lighter typing feel, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a smoother and more delicate typing experience. Additionally, the Ink Box Pink provides a higher-pitched clack, adding an extra touch of auditory satisfaction. On the other hand, the Oil King stands out with its buttery smoothness and a sound profile reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping. This switch offers a low-pitched sound, creamy feel, and a beautiful polished finish. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Gateron Oil King have different housing materials that contribute to their unique sound profiles. The Ink Box Pink features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which creates a pointed and high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. In contrast, the Oil King utilizes a nylon top housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, while both switches offer satisfying sound profiles, the Ink Box Pink has a sharper and higher-pitched sound, while the Oil King delivers a deeper and fuller sound.
Similarly, the bottom housing of the Ink Box Pink and the Oil King also differ in material. The Ink Box Pink utilizes the proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, which offers a pointed and high-pitched sound profile. In comparison, the Oil King features the same proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, resulting in a similar sound profile to the Ink Box Pink. Therefore, both switches share the quality of producing a satisfying, thin, and higher-pitched sound when pressed.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housings play distinct roles in the overall sound experience of a switch. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become more apparent, as it significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel. Thus, the material of the bottom housing contributes to the overall tactile experience of typing. On the other hand, the top housing is more influential in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice of housing material can impact the overall sound profile of a switch, and users may prefer switches with different housing materials depending on their desired sound and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, there are a few notable differences. The actuation force of the Ink Box Pink is 50 grams, while the Oil King requires a slightly higher force of 55 grams to trigger a keystroke. Both switches fall within the medium range, but the Oil King leans towards the heavier side. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Ink Box Pink is 60 grams, while the Oil King requires a slightly stronger push with a force of 65 grams. Thus, the Oil King can be considered the heavier option compared to the Ink Box Pink. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience or wish to type for longer periods, the Ink Box Pink may be ideal due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces. Conversely, individuals who desire a more substantial and forceful typing experience may opt for the Oil King, as it requires a greater amount of force for both actuation and bottoming out. In either case, users can expect similar results in terms of actuating and fully pressing the keys.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Gateron Oil King linear switch, it is evident that they have different distances. The Ink Box Pink has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Oil King has a slightly longer distance of 4 mm. This means that the Oil King has a more traditional travel distance compared to the Ink Box Pink, which is slightly shallower. Gamers, who prioritize faster response times, may prefer the Ink Box Pink due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a deeper and more substantial key press may lean towards the Oil King with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness.
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 Gateron Oil King comes in at $6.50 per 10 switches.
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 and Gateron Oil King linear switches have distinct characteristics. The Ink Box Pink is known for its clacky sound, producing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. It has a higher-pitched sound profile, which gives it a crisp, bright, and percussive tone. On the other hand, the Oil King is described as having a low-pitched sound, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. It has a deep and rich sound profile resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, these two switches provide different sound experiences, with the Ink Box Pink offering a higher-pitched clack and the Oil King providing a low-pitched and bassy sound.
When discussing the feel of the switches, both the Gateron Ink Box Pink and Gateron Oil King linear switches offer a remarkably smooth typing experience. The Ink Box Pink is described as silky and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This smoothness is due to the materials used and potentially factory lubing. Similarly, the Oil King is also described as silky, creamy, and buttery. It offers a gliding sensation when typing, with effortless keystrokes that feel smooth and fluid. Like the Ink Box Pink, the Oil King provides a seamless and uniform typing experience. Both switches excel in terms of feel, offering a smooth and refined typing experience that minimizes friction and enhances overall smoothness.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and Gateron Oil King linear switches have unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Box Pink is known for its clacky, high-pitched sound and silky, polished feel, while the Oil King offers a low-pitched, bassy sound, and a creamy, silky, and buttery typing experience. Both switches prioritize smoothness and provide an enjoyable typing experience. If you prefer a higher-pitched and clackier sound with a lighter typing feel, the Ink Box Pink is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a low-pitched, bassy sound with a smooth and buttery typing experience, the Oil King is an excellent option. Overall, both switches deliver satisfying results in their respective sound and feel categories, catering to different preferences.
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. These switches have a bottom out force of 60 grams, which falls in the medium range. They are known for their beautiful translucent appearance and offer a silky and polished feel. Additionally, the Ink Box Pink switches enhance the overall smoothness of the typing feel and minimize resistance when pressing and releasing keys.
On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier typing feel with a low-pitched and bassy sound profile reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping, the Gateron Oil King linear switch is a fantastic option. With a bottom out force of 65 grams, these switches are considered medium-heavy. They provide a creamy and silky typing experience, making your fingers glide effortlessly across the keys. The Oil King switches are also described as buttery and polished, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and Gateron Oil King switches will depend on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a lighter typing feel with a higher-pitched clack sound, go for the Ink Box Pink. However, if you prefer a slightly heavier feel with a low-pitched and bassy sound, the Oil King is the way to go. Whichever switch you choose, both offer exceptional smoothness and a satisfying typing experience.
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