Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Outemu Milk Blue mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct differences in their characteristics and typing experience. The Ink Box Pink is a linear switch known for its smoothness and lighter typing feel, with a higher-pitched clack that sets it apart. On the other hand, the Milk Blue is a clicky switch with no specific standout features mentioned. The decision between these two switches may come down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a lighter touch and a unique sound profile, the Ink Box Pink 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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 Milk Blue, it is evident that they both offer unique sound profiles. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Pink provides a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound, described as clacky, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Milk Blue produces a sharper and crisper sound. The difference in materials leads to distinct auditory experiences for users, with the Ink Box Pink offering a slightly softer sound compared to the more resonant sound of the Milk Blue.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend bottom housing aligns with its top housing in producing a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. In contrast, the Milk Blue's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon as a plastic material. This results in a slightly duller and rounder sound compared to the more sharp and clear sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing of the Milk Blue.
While the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Outemu Milk Blue differ in material composition, they both play a significant role in determining the overall sound profile of the switch. The more rigid polycarbonate top housing of the Milk Blue contributes to a clearer and resonant sound, while the softer nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. In comparison, the INK blend top and bottom housing of the Ink Box Pink work together to create a consistent and somewhat softer sound profile, offering a unique typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 50 grams. However, the Ink Box Pink has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Milk Blue's bottom out force is unknown. In terms of weight, the Ink Box Pink is lighter with a slightly higher bottom out force, making it a good option for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Milk Blue switch offers a clicky typing experience with an unknown bottom out force, which may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial push feel while typing. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force, as well as the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, the Ink Box Pink has a shorter distance of 3.6 mm, while the Milk Blue comes in at 4 mm. Both switches fall within the realm of traditional travel distances, with the Ink Box Pink leaning towards the shallower end and the Milk Blue being slightly longer. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Ink Box Pink, while those who appreciate a more substantial keypress might opt for the longer travel distance of the Milk Blue. In the end, both switches offer a tactile typing experience, but with slight variations in travel distance to suit different preferences.
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 Milk Blue 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch offers a unique clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch's sound characteristics are not specified, making it difficult to compare. However, it's important to note that the sound produced by a switch is influenced by various factors, including the keyboard's construction and keycap materials.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch is recognized for its silky and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and refined key press with minimal resistance. Conversely, there is no information provided about the tactile feel of the Outemu Milk Blue switch, making it challenging to assess in comparison.
Overall, based on the available information, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch seems to excel in both sound and feel qualities, providing a unique high-pitched and clacky sound profile while offering a silky and polished typing experience. If you prefer a switch with these characteristics, the Gateron Ink Box Pink would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you are looking for a clicky switch with specific sound and feel preferences, further research or testing may be necessary to determine if the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch meets your requirements.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. Choose the Ink Box Pink if you prefer a lighter typing feel with a medium bottom out force and enjoy a higher-pitched clack sound. On the other hand, opt for the Milk Blue if you prefer a clicky switch with no specified bottom out force, and enjoy the unique sound it produces. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and sound profile. Happy typing!
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