Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it is evident that they offer distinct typing experiences. The Ink Box Pink is renowned for its smoothness and light typing feel, along with a higher-pitched clack that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf switch does not have a particular standout feature, but it still provides a reliable and consistent tactile feedback. If you are looking for a switch that is 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', and 'Polished', the Ink Box Pink may be the ideal choice for you. 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
2.30 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
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches offer contrasting sound profiles. The Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend top housing produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, described as clacky. In contrast, the Maple Leaf's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to the softer plastic absorbing more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the Ink Box Pink.
Similarly, the bottom housing of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches also offer different sound profiles. The INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Pink produces a high-pitched and satisfying sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the Maple Leaf creates a deeper and fuller sound. The difference in plastic material between the two switches affects the overall typing experience, with the Ink Box Pink being described as clacky and the Maple Leaf offering a rounder sound when bottoming out.
Overall, the contrasting housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches result in different sound profiles and typing experiences. While the INK blend top and bottom housing of the Ink Box Pink create a high-pitched and clacky sound, the nylon top and bottom housing of the Maple Leaf offer a deeper and fuller sound. However, if the top and bottom housings are the same for a switch, such as in the case of the Maple Leaf, you can expect similar results in both the bottom-out sound and when releasing a key.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch. The Ink Box Pink requires 50 grams of force to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out, while the Maple Leaf needs 55 grams to actuate and 65 grams to bottom out. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, providing a good balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended use, the Gateron switch may be more suitable, while the Outemu switch offers a more substantial typing feel for those who enjoy a heavier push. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is longer than the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch with a travel distance of 3.3 mm. For those who prefer a longer travel distance for a more substantial feel when typing or gaming, the Maple Leaf switch would be the better option. On the other hand, if you prioritize faster response times and a more responsive keystroke, the shorter travel distance of the Ink Box Pink switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
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 Maple Leaf 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 known for its high-pitched and clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This can be appealing for those who prefer a more crisp and bright sound over deep bass tones. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch's sound quality is unknown, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Ink Box Pink is described as providing a silky and polished typing experience, offering smooth key travel and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This smoothness can enhance the overall typing feel, making it a popular choice among keyboard enthusiasts. Unfortunately, there is no information available on the tactile feel of the Outemu Maple Leaf switch, so it's not possible to compare their tactile feedback directly.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch excels in providing a high-pitched and clacky sound, as well as a silky and polished typing feel. While the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch may offer similar characteristics, without specific details on sound and feel, it's difficult to make a direct comparison between the two switches. Ultimately, the best switch for an individual will depend on their personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch or the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, you should opt for the Ink Box Pink if you prefer a lighter typing feel with a clacky and high-pitched sound. Additionally, if you value a silky and polished typing experience, the Ink Box Pink would be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and are looking for a tactile switch without specific sound and feel preferences, the Maple Leaf may be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will come down to your individual typing preferences and priorities in terms of sound and feel.
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