Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Outemu Lotus
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Outemu Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Outemu Lotus mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Gateron Ink Box Pink is a linear switch that is highly regarded for its smoothness and lighter typing feel compared to other switches. It is known for its beautiful translucent design and emits a higher-pitched clack when in use. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus is also a linear switch but lacks specific standout features. While the Ink Box Pink is characterized as 'clacky', 'high-pitched', 'silky', and 'polished', the Lotus does not have any distinct qualities listed. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences and typing style. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
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 Lotus, it is clear that they offer distinct sound profiles due to their different materials. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Pink provides a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, described as clacky, while the nylon top housing of the Lotus offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. This contrast highlights how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience and sound of a keyboard.
Similarly, the bottom housing materials of the two switches also play a crucial role in shaping the typing experience. The INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Pink delivers a pointed and high-pitched sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Lotus creates a deeper and fuller sound. This difference in sound profile between the two switches showcases the unique characteristics that each housing material brings to the overall typing feel, whether it be a sharper and more pronounced sound or a softer and more rounded tone.
Overall, while the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Outemu Lotus may have different housing materials, they both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The INK blend top and bottom housing of the Ink Box Pink create a satisfying clacky sound, while the nylon top and bottom housing of the Lotus deliver a deeper and fuller tone. Despite their differences, both switches provide a distinct typing experience that is influenced by the materials used in their construction, showcasing the importance of housing materials in keyboard design.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch have notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Ink Box Pink has a medium actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Lotus has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the Lotus the lighter option between the two switches. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Lotus would be the better choice, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke and bottom out. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink offers a slightly heavier typing experience with its higher actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches provide different levels of tactile feedback, allowing users to choose based on their preferences for typing comfort and speed.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This makes the Lotus switch slightly shorter in travel distance compared to the Ink Box Pink. In terms of response time, gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Lotus switch for faster key presses. However, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Ink Box Pink with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a different typing experience based on their travel distances, but both can provide similar results depending on the user's 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 Lotus 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 linear switch provides a clacky and high-pitched sound profile when pressed, giving off a sharp and snappy noise that can be described as crisp and bright. On the other hand, information on the sound quality of the Outemu Lotus linear switch is currently unavailable. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is known for its silky and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and refined feel with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This results in enhanced overall smoothness during typing sessions. Unfortunately, there is no available information on the typing feel of the Outemu Lotus linear switch at this time.
In conclusion, while the sound profile of the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch is characterized by its clacky and high-pitched nature, the typing experience is smooth and polished thanks to its silky and refined feel. As for the Outemu Lotus linear switch, more information is needed to make a direct comparison. However, based on the characteristics of the Gateron switch, it is likely that the Outemu switch would provide a similar experience if it shares similar properties. Ultimately, the best choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and light linear switch with a higher-pitched clack sound, then the Gateron Ink Box Pink would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and do not mind a quieter typing experience, the Outemu Lotus linear switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique features and it ultimately depends on your personal preferences when choosing between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and Outemu Lotus linear switches.
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