Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Outemu Ocean
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Outemu Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Outemu Ocean offer distinct options to cater to different preferences. The Ink Box Pink, a linear switch, is popular for its smooth and light typing feel, accompanied by a higher-pitched clack that some users find satisfying. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean, a tactile switch, does not have a specific standout feature but offers a different tactile feedback compared to linear switches. While the Ink Box Pink is known for its 'clacky' and 'high-pitched' characteristics, the Ocean remains more subtle in its description. 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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Outemu Ocean, we see that both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials. The Ink Box Pink utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a thin, high-pitched, and clacky sound. On the other hand, the Ocean features a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, the difference in sound between the two can greatly impact the overall feel of typing on each switch.
Looking at the bottom housings of the switches, we see another point of contrast between the Ink Box Pink and the Outemu Ocean. The Ink Box Pink's INK blend bottom housing contributes to its high-pitched sound profile, adding to the overall clacky typing experience. In comparison, the Ocean utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder typing feel. This difference in bottom housing materials highlights the importance of both top and bottom housing in determining the overall sound and feel of a switch.
Overall, the housing materials used in switches play a crucial role in shaping the typing experience. Both the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Outemu Ocean offer distinct sound profiles due to their unique housing materials. While the Ink Box Pink provides a thinner, higher-pitched sound with its INK blend housing, the Ocean features a sharper and crisper sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing. Similarly, the Nylon bottom housing of the Ocean creates a deeper and fuller sound compared to the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Pink. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound and typing feel.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Outemu Ocean tactile switch's 55 grams. However, the Ink Box Pink requires a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Ocean's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Ink Box Pink offers a smoother typing experience with a lighter initial press, but a firmer bottoming out sensation. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean may provide a more consistent feel throughout the keystroke, although the exact force needed to bottom out is uncertain. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for typing experience, with the Ink Box Pink leaning towards a lighter touch and the Ocean potentially offering a more tactile response.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Ocean tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Outemu Ocean tactile switch slightly longer in terms of travel distance compared to the Gateron Ink Box Pink. The 3.6 mm travel distance of the Gateron switch falls in the range of shorter travel distances which are preferred for faster response times, especially by gamers. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Outemu switch offers a slightly deeper feel when pressing down on the key, which may be preferred by those who like a more substantial depth in their key presses. In terms of travel distance, the Gateron Ink Box Pink offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Outemu Ocean tactile switch.
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 Ocean 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 is often described as clacky and high-pitched, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. In comparison, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch has no specific sound descriptors provided, but it's important to note that sound can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch is known for its silky and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and refined feel with minimized resistance when pressing and releasing keys. On the other hand, there is no information available regarding the tactile feel of the Outemu Ocean switch.
Overall, if you are looking for a switch with a lighter typing feel, a higher-pitched clack sound, and a smooth, polished typing experience, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch would be a great choice. While the specific tactile feel and sound of the Outemu Ocean switch are unknown, it's important to consider factors like personal preference, typing style, and the overall keyboard setup when making a decision. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique qualities, and experimenting with different switches can help you find the perfect match for your typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a lighter typing feel with a higher-pitched clack sound, the Ink Box Pink may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with no specified bottom out force and are looking for a unique typing experience, the Ocean switch could be the one to go for. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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