Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Outemu Silent Yellow 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 Silent Yellow both offer excellent options for different preferences. The Ink Box Pink is a linear switch that is best known for its beautiful translucent design and smooth, light typing feel. It produces a higher-pitched clack when in use, and is categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow is also a linear switch but lacks specific standout features. However, this switch offers a quieter typing experience compared to other switches. When choosing between these two options, it ultimately comes down to personal preference 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
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 Silent Yellow, we can see that they both offer unique sound profiles. The Ink Box Pink's INK blend top housing provides a satisfying thin and high-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials offer a distinct sound, the polycarbonate in the Silent Yellow switch provides a more clear and resonant profile compared to the INK blend of the Ink Box Pink.
Furthermore, when looking at the bottom housings of these switches, we see a similar contrast in material and sound profile. The Ink Box Pink's INK blend bottom housing produces a pointed and high-pitched sound, similar to its top housing. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Yellow's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer material that absorbs more sound. This highlights how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall sound experience of a switch.
Overall, while the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Outemu Silent Yellow offer different housing materials, they both contribute to an enhanced typing experience. The INK blend of the Ink Box Pink provides a unique clacky sound profile, while the polycarbonate and nylon materials used in the Silent Yellow switch offer sharper and deeper sound profiles, respectively. By understanding how each housing material affects sound, users can choose a switch that best suits their preferences for typing and gaming.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it is evident that the weights differ significantly. The Gateron Ink Box Pink has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and bottom out force of 60 grams, both being medium in comparison. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow exhibits a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, making it a more substantial option. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Gateron Ink Box Pink, as it allows for extended typing periods and smoother keystrokes. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Yellow provides a more robust push feel, catering to individuals seeking a heavier typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference based on the desired typing feel and force required for an optimal typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Silent Yellow has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Ink Box Pink. A 0.4 mm difference may not seem significant, but for those who are sensitive to key travel distances, it can make a noticeable impact on typing feel and gaming performance. If you prefer a switch with a shorter travel distance for faster response times, the Ink Box Pink may be the better option. On the other hand, if you enjoy the feeling of deeper key presses and a more deliberate keystroke, the Silent Yellow with its longer travel distance may be more to your liking. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on your personal preferences 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 Yellow 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 known for its clacky and high-pitched characteristics, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch lacks any specific sound description, leaving it unknown how it compares in terms of auditory feedback. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is praised for its silky and polished feel, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch does not have any specific feel description available, making it unclear how it measures up in terms of tactile feedback and typing comfort.
In conclusion, based on the information provided, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch stands out for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, as well as its silky and polished typing feel. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch remains a bit of a mystery in terms of sound and feel characteristics. If you are looking for a switch with a specific sound and feel profile similar to the Gateron Ink Box Pink, it may be best to stick with that switch to ensure you get the desired auditory and tactile experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switches, you should consider your preference for typing feel and sound. If you prioritize a smoother typing experience with a lighter feel and a higher-pitched, clacky sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and are not concerned with sound, the Outemu Silent Yellow might be more suitable. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch. Consider your typing style and preferences carefully before making your decision.
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