Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Outemu Cream Yellow

Overview

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, both the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Outemu Cream Yellow offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Ink Box Pink, famed for its smooth and polished feel, delivers a lightweight typing experience characterized by a high-pitched clack, ideal for typists who enjoy a fluid, easily maneuverable keypress. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Yellow is categorized as a tactile switch, providing a pronounced bump during actuation that many users find satisfying for both typing and gaming, though it may lack some of the defined characteristics of more widely recognized tactile switches. While the Ink Box Pink might appeal to those who prefer a quieter yet still expressive typing experience, the Cream Yellow is likely to attract users who appreciate a tactile response and a clear indication of actuation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Box Pink Linear

Outemu Cream Yellow Tactile

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches, a stark contrast emerges between the proprietary INK blend used in the former and the nylon housing found in the latter. The Gateron Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housings tends to produce a sound profile that is pointed, high-pitched, and described as clacky, which engages users looking for a more tactile auditory experience. This sound character resonates through both the pressing and releasing phases of a key stroke, emphasizing the consistency and sharpness of its acoustic profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Yellow’s nylon housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nature of nylon, being a softer plastic, provides a more muted and rounded auditory experience that absorbs sound efficiently, altering the acoustic landscape produced when typing.

Delving into the sound characteristics further, we can see how the different housing materials impact the overall typing experience. The Ink Box Pink's high-pitched clackiness is highlighted when the key is released, whereas the Cream Yellow's nylon material results in a whisper-like retreat of the key, favoring a more subdued sound environment. This fundamental difference in how each switch relays sound upon both pressing and releasing keys largely stems from the inherent properties of their respective housing materials. While the Ink Box Pink’s sound profile remains consistently sharp from both top and bottom housings, the Cream Yellow strategically delivers a fuller sound, creating a tonal contrast that many typists may find appealing depending on personal preference.

Despite the distinct characteristics imparted by their differing materials, it's possible to achieve somewhat similar outcomes depending on user preferences in tactile feedback and sound. Both the Ink Box Pink and the Cream Yellow switches possess unique auditory signatures that cater to various typing styles and requirements. If a typist favors the sharpness and responsiveness of the Ink Box Pink, they might find it to be an engaging experience. Conversely, for those drawn to a fuller sound ambiance during their typing sessions, the Cream Yellow could serve as an ideal choice. Ultimately, while the material composition leads to noticeably different acoustic results, the satisfaction of typing can be realized across both options through careful selection based on individual needs and preferences.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation forces. The Ink Box Pink has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Cream Yellow is slightly lighter at 45 grams. This means that users who prefer a lighter key feel for extended typing or gaming sessions may find the Cream Yellow more suitable. However, both switches share the same bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating that they provide a similar resistance when pressed all the way down. Therefore, while the Ink Box Pink requires a bit more force to actuate, both switches deliver a comparable experience when it comes to bottoming out. For those who favor a lighter touch, the Outemu Cream Yellow would be the better option; conversely, if a firmer feel is desired for a more substantial typing experience, the Gateron Ink Box Pink would be the preferred choice.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, it's clear that the Ink Box Pink has a longer travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cream Yellow measures at 3.3 mm. This difference of 0.3 mm highlights a key distinction in their design. The shorter travel distance of the Cream Yellow might appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times, while the longer travel of the Ink Box Pink provides a more tactile feel that some users find preferable for typing or gaming, as it can feel less abrupt and offer a deeper response. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference, where shorter travel distances may be favored for speed, and longer distances may be preferred for comfort and depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch produces a high-pitched clack that is both sharp and crisp, creating an auditory experience that many users find pleasing. The elevated pitch contributes to a bright and percussive resonation when key presses occur, making it ideal for those who prefer a more lively sound profile over deeper, bass-heavy clicks. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch does not have defined sound characteristics available for comparison, which leaves its sound profile undetermined. Therefore, if sound is a significant factor in your choice, the Ink Box Pink provides a more distinct auditory experience.

When considering the feel, the Ink Box Pink excels with its silky and polished typing experience. Users can expect minimal resistance during key presses due to its smooth finish, allowing for quick and fluid typing. This reduced friction is enhanced by the materials used and potentially factory lubing, which further refines the overall experience. Unfortunately, the Cream Yellow does not have any specific descriptive qualities regarding its feel, leaving a gap in comparison. Therefore, the Ink Box Pink clearly stands out with its superior smoothness.

In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch offers a distinct auditory profile characterized by a high-pitched, clacky sound and a remarkably smooth feel that is silky and polished. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch lacks available information on both sound and feel, providing no definitive qualities to compare. For those prioritizing auditory feedback and typing smoothness, the Ink Box Pink is the clear choice, while the Cream Yellow leaves much to be desired in terms of defined characteristics.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, your intended use and personal preferences will be key factors. If you prefer a smooth, silky typing experience with a crisp, clacky sound profile, the Ink Box Pink is an excellent choice, particularly for typing and gaming where a lighter touch and high-pitched feedback can enhance your experience. Their medium force and polished design contribute to an effortless typing feel that many find enjoyable. On the other hand, if you're looking for a tactile switch that offers more resistance without compromising on the bottom-out force, then the Cream Yellow may suit your needs better. While it lacks the distinctive sound and smoothness of the Ink Box Pink, it can provide a more traditional typing experience that some users find satisfying, especially for typing tasks that require more confirmation on key presses. Ultimately, your choice should reflect how you prioritize sound, feel, and the typing experience you desire.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Box Pink Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Cream Yellow Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more