Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Outemu Black
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Outemu Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Outemu Black mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Gateron Ink Box Pink is celebrated for its smooth and lighter typing feel, as well as the satisfying higher-pitched clack that it produces. On the other hand, the Outemu Black is a linear switch with no specific standout features mentioned. While the Ink Box Pink may appeal to those looking for a more polished and silky typing experience, the Black switch might be preferred by users who prioritize simplicity and a straightforward linear 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
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Outemu Black switches both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Pink provides a satisfying clacky sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Black creates a sharper and crisper sound. While the INK blend is known for its higher-pitched sound, the polycarbonate material offers a more resonant and clear sound profile. In terms of aesthetics, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, making the Black a visually appealing option.
In terms of bottom housing, the Ink Box Pink uses its proprietary INK blend, which continues to provide a higher-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Black utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the INK blend. This difference in bottom housing material contributes to the overall sound experience when typing on either switch.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Outemu Black will ultimately come down to personal preference in sound and feel. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Pink offers a unique clacky sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Black provides a sharper and crisper sound. Similarly, the differences in bottom housing materials also impact the sound profile of each switch. Whether you prefer a higher-pitched sound with the Ink Box Pink or a deeper, fuller sound with the Outemu Black, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Outemu Black linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams. When it comes to the bottom out force, the Ink Box Pink requires 60 grams, while the Black needs 82 grams to bottom out. This means that the Ink Box Pink offers a lighter typing experience overall, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Outemu Black switch provides a heavier and more substantial typing experience, appealing to users who like a stronger push feel when typing. Both switches offer different levels of resistance, catering to varying preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6mm, while the Outemu Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm. In this case, the Outemu Black has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Gateron Ink Box Pink. The shorter travel distance of the Pink switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Black switch may provide a more satisfying and deep keystroke feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance in relation to typing or gaming experience. Both switches offer their own benefits based on the desired typing or gaming experience, so whether shorter or longer, you can achieve similar results depending on your preference.
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 Outemu Black comes in at $3.10 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 linear switch is known for its high-pitched and clacky noise profile. Users can expect a sharp and crisp sound when typing on these switches, giving a satisfying and percussive auditory feedback. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Black linear switch is unavailable. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is described as silky and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience. These switches minimize resistance when pressing and releasing keys, offering an overall refined and sleek feel. Unfortunately, there is no information available regarding the tactile feel of the Outemu Black linear switch. Users who prefer a smooth and frictionless typing experience may find the Gateron Ink Box Pink to be a desirable choice.
Taking all the available information into account, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch appears to offer a high-pitched and clacky sound profile along with a silky and polished typing feel. While information on the Outemu Black linear switch is limited, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel with the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience that each user is looking for.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a lighter typing feel and a higher-pitched clack sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink would be a suitable choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and do not have a particular preference for sound and feel, the Outemu Black may be the better option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing experience and sound profile.
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