Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between different tactile experiences, and two notable contenders are the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Outemu Gold. The Ink Box Pink switches are celebrated for their smoothness and lighter typing feel, creating a nearly effortless experience that many users appreciate for both typing and gaming. Their characteristic high-pitched clack adds an engaging auditory element that some find particularly satisfying. In contrast, while the Outemu Gold lacks a distinct reputation, it falls into the category of clicky switches known for their tactile feedback, which can provide a more pronounced typing experience that many users enjoy for its satisfying "click." Ultimately, the choice between these switches boils down to personal preference, with the Ink Box Pink appealing to those who prioritize smoothness and sound, while the Outemu Gold attracts users who prefer a tactile response. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches and the Outemu Gold switches, there are notable distinctions that impact the overall sound and feel of these mechanical switches. The Ink Box Pink features a proprietary INK blend top housing that offers a slightly high-pitched and clacky sound profile, while the Outemu Gold is equipped with a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and crisper sound as a result of its stiffer material. The difference in materials between the two switches contributes to the character of the auditory experience when typing or gaming. While both switches aim for a satisfying acoustic feedback, the INK blend of the Ink Box Pink tends to feel more resonant and pointed, whereas the polycarbonate used in the Outemu Gold gives a clearer and more defined sound.
Delving into the bottom housing, the Gateron Ink Box Pink utilizes a proprietary INK blend material, which balances the acoustic experience by delivering a high-pitched yet not overly sharp sound profile. In contrast, the Outemu Gold employs a nylon bottom housing that creates a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to nylon's ability to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. This resulting sound profile from the nylon housing allows for a richer typing experience, as the material dampens overtones and brings a rounder quality to each keystroke. Consequently, while the Ink Box Pink's bottom housing complements its top housing to maintain that clacky feedback, the Outemu Gold's nylon bottom significantly alters its sound character, contributing a softer essence to each keypress.
The interaction between the top and bottom housings in each switch design highlights how their respective materials influence overall performance. Although the Ink Box Pink and Outemu Gold switches diverge with their unique materials, the interplay between the two housings in both instances dictates the sound profile upon bottoming out the key. The Gateron Ink Box Pink's top housing allows for a more pronounced crispness when releasing the key, while the Outemu Gold's top housing provides clarity and sharpness in sound—both ultimately serving to create a distinct auditory experience while typing. Understanding these nuances becomes essential for enthusiasts looking to find their ideal switch, as both the Ink Box Pink and Outemu Gold present different yet complementary auditory signatures, leading to rewarding typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, both offer a unique typing experience, particularly regarding their actuation and bottom out forces. The Ink Box Pink has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Outemu Gold is slightly lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams, but it shares the same bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that, despite the Ink Box Pink requiring a little more force to register a keystroke, both switches will feel equally firm when fully pressed down. Users who prefer a lighter switch may lean towards the Outemu Gold, finding it easier for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, while those who appreciate a slightly heftier feel may find the Ink Box Pink more satisfying. Ultimately, if you're looking for a switch that balances lightness and substantial feedback, the Outemu Gold might be the way to go, whereas the Ink Box Pink would suit those who enjoy a bit more resistance in their typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Gold clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This comparison reveals that the Outemu Gold has a longer travel distance by 0.4 mm, which aligns with the traditional preference for deeper keystrokes. Gamers might lean towards the Ink Box Pink due to its shorter travel distance, which can provide faster response times and a more immediate feel when pressing keys. Conversely, those who favor a more pronounced keystroke may prefer the Outemu Gold for its greater depth. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference regarding travel distance; if you favor quicker actions, the Ink Box Pink would be the better fit, whereas if you appreciate a more substantial typing experience, the Outemu Gold would be advantageous.
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 Gold 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches provide a distinct auditory experience characterized by a clacky and high-pitched profile. When pressed, they deliver a crisp, bright, and percussive sound, making them stand out as an excellent option for typists who appreciate an audible feedback with every keystroke. This higher-pitched clack enhances the liveliness of the typing experience, allowing for clear auditory confirmation during use. In contrast, the Outemu Gold switches lack any specific sound characteristics, leaving them relatively quiet or undefined in comparison. The sound experience of any switch can vary based on the keyboard design and keycap materials used, but the Ink Box Pink distinctly leans toward a more engaging auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Ink Box Pink switches are renowned for their silky and polished characteristics. This smoothness translates into an exceptionally pleasant typing experience, where pressing and releasing the keys feels effortless, with minimal resistance. The refined finish of these switches is likely a result of the materials used and potentially factory lubing, contributing to reduced friction and smooth key travel. In stark contrast, the Outemu Gold switches do not have defined tactile properties noted, resulting in an enigmatic typing feel that provides little in the way of specific feedback or luxuriousness compared to the Ink Box Pink switches.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches shine with their distinct qualities in both sound and feel, providing a lively auditory experience along with a smooth and pleasantly refined typing touch. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold switches offer a more ambiguous profile, with both sound and tactile characteristics left undescribed, leaving users to question what they might expect. For newcomers looking to make an informed decision, the Ink Box Pink switches are likely to deliver a more satisfying and engaging overall experience, while the Gold switches may not offer the same level of enjoyment or feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switches and Outemu Gold clicky switches ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a smooth and polished typing experience with a higher-pitched, clacky sound, the Ink Box Pink is a fantastic option for you, especially if you enjoy lighter key feels. This switch is ideal for typing long documents or for gaming sessions where you want seamless, fluid movement without the distraction of a tactile bump. On the other hand, if you prefer a more traditional clicky feedback that many typists find gratifying, even though the Outemu Gold does not come with any distinctive features, it still delivers a satisfying experience at a similar medium actuation force. This switch can be an excellent choice for those who enjoy the auditory confirmation of each keystroke while typing or gaming. Ultimately, consider factors like your sound preference and the kind of typing experience you seek to guide your decision.
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