Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Outemu Silent Ocean mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, some key differences become apparent. The Ink Box Pink stands out for its beautiful translucent design, smooth feel, and lighter typing experience, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a higher-pitched clack while typing. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean is known for its silent operation, with no specific standout characteristics mentioned. If you prefer a clacky and high-pitched switch, the Ink Box Pink may be the way to go, while the Silent Ocean may be the better choice for those seeking a quieter typing experience. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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 Silent Ocean, we can see that both switches have unique characteristics that impact their sound profiles. The Ink Box Pink features a proprietary INK blend top housing that provides a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound, while the Silent Ocean utilizes a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper and crisper sound profile. The difference in sound is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate creating a more clear and resonant sound compared to the INK blend. However, both switches offer a similar high-pitched sound that is described as clacky, making them suitable options for those who enjoy a more distinct typing experience.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials, the Ink Box Pink and Silent Ocean switches diverge in their compositions. The Ink Box Pink uses the same proprietary INK blend for both top and bottom housings, resulting in a consistent high-pitched and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean features a nylon bottom housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. This contrast in bottom housing materials highlights the different sound profiles that can be achieved by modifying the materials used in switch construction.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a mechanical switch can significantly impact the typing experience and sound feedback. While the Ink Box Pink and Silent Ocean switches differ in their top and bottom housing compositions, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a sharper and crisper sound from a polycarbonate housing or a deeper and fuller sound from a nylon housing, each switch provides a distinct typing experience that can enhance your overall mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, the housing materials play a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of a switch, making it important to consider these factors when choosing the right switch for your setup.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, we can see some differences. The Ink Box Pink has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it in the medium category. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy. This means that the Silent Ocean requires less force to initiate a keystroke but more force to bottom out compared to the Ink Box Pink. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Silent Ocean for extended typing sessions, while others may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the Ink Box Pink for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Ink Box Pink has a shorter travel distance compared to the Silent Ocean. The difference may seem small, but it can have an impact on the typing experience. Gamers, who prefer faster response times, may lean towards the Ink Box Pink due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Silent Ocean with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on 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 Silent 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is known for producing a clacky and high-pitched sound when pressed, giving a crisp and bright typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch's sound quality is unknown. The sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is recognized for its silky and polished typing experience, offering smooth key travel and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. However, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch's tactile feel is unknown. Both switches prioritize providing a smooth typing experience, but the specific nuances in how they achieve this may vary.
Overall, if you prefer a switch with a lighter typing feel and a higher-pitched, clacky sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that offers a silent typing experience with an emphasis on smoothness, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch may be a good option. Keep in mind that personal preference plays a significant role in choosing the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter typing feel with a medium bottom out force, and enjoy a higher-pitched and clacky sound profile, then the Ink Box Pink may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and prioritize a smooth and refined typing experience, then the Silent Ocean switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your individual preferences and typing style.
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