Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Outemu Dustproof Purple
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Pink to the Outemu Dustproof Purple mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that they offer distinct typing experiences. The Ink Box Pink is a linear switch known for its smooth and lighter typing feel, accompanied by a higher-pitched clack sound. On the other hand, the Dustproof Purple is a clicky switch with no specific standout feature mentioned. The Ink Box Pink is ideal for those seeking a sleek and polished typing experience, while the Dustproof Purple may appeal to individuals who prefer clicky switches. 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
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
Partial box
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Outemu Dustproof Purple, it is clear that they offer unique sound profiles due to their different materials. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Pink provides a clacky and high-pitched sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Purple offers a sharper and crisper sound. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for RGB lighting enthusiasts. On the other hand, the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Pink contributes to its satisfying clacky sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Purple produces a deeper and fuller sound profile.
While the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Outemu Dustproof Purple offer contrasting sound profiles, the qualities of each housing material are evenly distributed throughout the switch. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, with nylon providing a duller and rounder sound compared to the INK blend. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, with polycarbonate creating a clearer and more resonant sound profile in the case of the Dustproof Purple. Despite these differences, both switches offer distinct sound experiences based on their housing materials.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Outemu Dustproof Purple ultimately provide unique typing experiences for users. The INK blend and polycarbonate top housings of the two switches contribute to their distinct sound profiles, with the INK blend offering a clacky sound and the polycarbonate producing a sharper sound. Similarly, the INK blend and nylon bottom housings impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, with nylon providing a deeper and fuller sound compared to the INK blend. Overall, both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in achieving specific sound characteristics when typing.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch both fall within the medium range, with the Ink Box Pink being slightly lighter at 50 grams actuation force and 60 grams bottom out force, compared to the Dustproof Purple's 55 grams actuation force and 65 grams bottom out force, making it medium-heavy. This means that the Ink Box Pink will provide a slightly lighter typing experience compared to the Dustproof Purple. The lighter actuation force of the Ink Box Pink may be preferred by those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, while the heavier bottom out force of the Dustproof Purple may be favored by those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Overall, both switches offer a good balance between actuation force and bottom out force, providing users with a satisfying typing experience based on their individual preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Ink Box Pink offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, which may be preferred by gamers looking for swift key presses. On the other hand, the Dustproof Purple clicky switch provides a more substantial depth with its longer travel distance, which some users may find more satisfying and comfortable for typing tasks that require a bit more feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the specific typing or gaming experience desired.
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 Dustproof Purple 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
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is best known for its smooth and lighter typing feel, accompanied by a higher-pitched clack when pressed. This switch is described as clacky and high-pitched, providing a sharp and snappy sound that some users may find pleasing. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch does not have any specific subjective qualities mentioned.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch is known for offering a silky and polished typing experience. These qualities contribute to enhancing smoothness and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The Dustproof Purple switch's feel is unknown, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison between the two in this aspect.
Overall, if sound is a crucial factor for you, the Gateron Ink Box Pink may provide a more satisfying auditory experience with its high-pitched and clacky characteristics. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and polished typing feel, the Gateron switch would also excel in this area. However, without specific information on the Dustproof Purple switch's sound and feel, it is hard to directly compare the two switches in those aspects. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences regarding sound and feel.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, you should consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a smoother and lighter typing feel with a higher-pitched clacky sound, then the Ink Box Pink would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with a clicky sound, the Dustproof Purple may be more suitable. Both switches have their own unique characteristics, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what typing experience you find most enjoyable. Consider how you like your keyboard to feel and sound when typing to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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