Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Outemu Crystal Brown

Overview

When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Pink, a linear switch, to the Outemu Crystal Brown, a tactile switch, there are key differences to consider. The Ink Box Pink is praised for its smooth and light typing feel, as well as its higher-pitched clack when in use, making it ideal for those seeking a 'clacky' and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown offers a tactile bump without any specific standout features. If you prefer a more traditional typing experience with a tactile response, the Crystal Brown may be the better choice. 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 Crystal Brown Tactile

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Outemu Crystal Brown both offer unique sound profiles due to the materials used. The Ink Box Pink features a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound, described as clacky. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the Crystal Brown switch gives it a more clear and resonant sound due to its stiffer nature compared to the INK blend used in the Ink Box Pink.

In terms of the bottom housing, the Ink Box Pink's INK blend creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that complements its top housing. Conversely, the Crystal Brown's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This difference in bottom housing material contributes to the overall sound experience of each switch, providing users with a variety of sound profiles to choose from based on their preferences.

While the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Outemu Crystal Brown bring different qualities to the switches, the impact of each housing material can be felt in different ways. The bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when the key is released. Despite their differences, both switches offer unique sound experiences based on the materials used in their housings, giving users the opportunity to choose a switch that best suits their typing preferences.

Weight

The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch. The Ink Box Pink has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Crystal Brown has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. This makes the Crystal Brown a lighter option overall. The actuation force is important for triggering keystrokes, while the bottom out force measures the force required to press the key all the way down. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Outemu Crystal Browns may be the preferred choice, as they offer a slightly softer touch compared to the Gateron Ink Box Pinks.

Travel distance

The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Crystal Brown has a longer travel distance compared to the Ink Box Pink. Choosing between the two depends on personal preference and intended use. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Ink Box Pink for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Crystal Brown with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer different experiences in terms of travel distance, catering to different preferences.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is renowned for its high-pitched, clacky sound profile when pressed. This sharp and snappy sound resonates with users looking for a crisp and bright typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch does not have any specific sound descriptors available, so it is difficult to compare in this aspect. Moving on to feel, the Ink Box Pink offers a silky and polished typing experience, characterized by its exceptionally smooth keypress and reduced resistance when pressing and releasing keys. In contrast, there are no feel descriptors available for the Crystal Brown switch, making it challenging to assess its tactile feel. Overall, while the Ink Box Pink excels in providing a unique sound and feel, the subjective qualities of the Crystal Brown switch remain unknown. As a newcomer, selecting the Gateron Ink Box Pink may provide a more predictable and satisfying typing experience based on the available information, while the Outemu Crystal Brown may offer similar results if tactile feedback and typing feel are your primary considerations.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a clacky, high-pitched sound with a silky, polished typing feel, then the Ink Box Pink may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and are not concerned about sound and feel characteristics, the Crystal Brown switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Box Pink Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

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Outemu Crystal Brown Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more