Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Outemu Silver

Overview

When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Outemu Silver present intriguing options for enthusiasts seeking smooth typing experiences. The Ink Box Pink switches stand out with their beautiful translucent design and are heralded for their silky and polished feel, delivering a lighter typing experience that many users find pleasurable. These switches are characterized by a higher-pitched clack that appeals to those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, while the Outemu Silver switches do not have specific standout features highlighted in descriptions, they are generally known for their straightforward linear functionality that offers a smooth keystroke without tactile bumps or significant noise. This can be appealing for users looking for a more subdued and focused typing experience. Both switches serve different preferences: the Ink Box Pink for those who appreciate a cheerful sound and aesthetics, and the Silver for users who prefer minimal distractions. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Box Pink Linear

Outemu Silver Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Outemu Silver switches, notable differences emerge between their top housing compositions. The Ink Box Pink features a proprietary INK blend, which is engineered to deliver a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that some users appreciate for its clacky quality. Conversely, the Outemu Silver employs polycarbonate for its top housing, known for producing a sharper and crisper sound. While both materials contribute to a higher-pitched auditory experience, the INK blend leans towards a more subtle resonance, whereas the polycarbonate construction articulates a clearer sound. This distinction can affect the overall auditory feel during typing, suggesting that while both may yield similar high-pitched results, the nuances in sound clarity can play a crucial role for the user’s experience.

The bottom housings further illustrate the contrasts between the Ink Box Pink and the Outemu Silver. The Ink Box Pink uses the same proprietary INK blend as its top housing, emphasizing a consistent high-pitched and clacky sound throughout its design. In contrast, the Outemu Silver features a nylon bottom housing, which is recognized for generating a deeper and fuller sound profile. This difference in material creates an impact on the typing experience; the softer nylon contributes to a more rounded bottom-out feel, while the INK blend maintains a consistent sound across the switch. Consequently, when engaging with these two switches, users will notice how the bottom housing of the Outemu Silver diminishes the sharpness of sound compared to the Ink Box Pink, resulting in a more layered auditory experience.

Overall, the combination of housing materials results in distinct yet complementary ergonomic experiences for users of the Ink Box Pink and the Outemu Silver. The differing qualities of the top and bottom housings in each switch play a significant role in shaping how sound is perceived when typing. In switches like the Ink Box Pink, the harmony of the INK materials in both housings creates a uniform auditory profile, while the varied properties of polycarbonate and nylon in the Outemu Silver produce an intriguing dynamic between clarity and depth. Thus, regardless of the variations in materials, users can achieve an enjoyable typing experience, albeit with different auditory characteristics, thereby catering to a range of preferences within the mechanical keyboard community.

Weight

The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch both offer varying force characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Ink Box Pink has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, situating it in the medium range. In contrast, the Outemu Silver switch features a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams but has a heavier bottom out force at 65 grams. This means that while both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, the Ink Box Pink requires a bit more force to initiate a keystroke, making it suitable for users who prefer a more robust typing feel. However, the Outemu Silver’s lighter actuation force may appeal to those seeking a less strenuous experience during extended use, although it presents a heavier resistance when fully pressed down. Ultimately, the Gateron Ink Box Pink is the heavier option when considering the actuation force, while the Outemu Silver edges out in terms of a lighter keystroke initiation.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Ink Box Pink has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Silver features a longer travel distance at 4.0 mm. This difference suggests that users may experience more immediate responsiveness with the shorter Ink Box Pink, making it an appealing choice for gamers who prefer faster key presses. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more satisfying depth that some users enjoy, particularly those who favor a more substantial tactile experience. Thus, if you seek quicker response times, the Ink Box Pink is the better option, while the Outemu Silver may be more suitable for those who appreciate a more pronounced keystroke.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switches are characterized by their distinct clacky and high-pitched acoustic profile. When pressed, they produce a sharp, bright sound that is both crisp and percussive, making them particularly appealing to those who enjoy a more lively and pronounced auditory feedback while typing. The lighter actuation and absence of a tactile bump also contribute to this sound, enhancing the overall auditory experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver linear switches lack a defined sound profile, leaving their auditory characteristics largely unknown. Therefore, while the Ink Box Pink delightfully engages the senses with its sound, the Outemu Silver remains relatively silent in this regard.

When considering the feel of each switch, the Gateron Ink Box Pink exhibits a silky and polished typing experience. Their smoothness is not only a result of the materials used but also potentially enhanced through factory lubrication, allowing for minimally resisted key travel. This creates a refined and enjoyable typing sensation that many users find satisfying, especially during prolonged typing sessions. In contrast, there is no available information surrounding the feel of the Outemu Silver switches. As a result, one cannot compare their typing experience against that of the Ink Box Pink, leaving a gap regarding their overall tactile satisfaction.

In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switches stand out for their high-pitched, clacky sound and exceptionally smooth, polished feel, providing both auditory and tactile satisfaction. The Outemu Silver switches, however, lack distinct sound and feel descriptions, which makes it difficult to assess their performance accurately. For newcomers seeking a keyboard that emphasizes a joyous auditory feedback and a silky typing experience, the Ink Box Pink is a compelling choice, while the Outemu Silver may leave one guessing about its qualities. Ultimately, if you're looking for a familiar and refined typing experience, the Ink Box Pink should be at the forefront of your considerations.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Outemu Silver linear switches, it's essential to consider your typing preferences and the experience you seek. If you prefer a smoother and lighter typing feel, the Ink Box Pink is a great choice due to its 60-gram bottom-out force and polished, silky texture, which enhances overall smoothness. The clacky, high-pitched sound profile can also add a unique auditory experience, making it enjoyable for those who appreciate the sharp, crisp feedback in their keystrokes. On the other hand, if you favor a more substantial and slightly heavier feel while typing, the Outemu Silver's 65-gram actuation force may be more suitable. However, keep in mind that it lacks distinct auditory characteristics, which might make it less engaging for those who enjoy a more pronounced sound. Ultimately, your decision should align with your typing style—if you favor smoothness and sound, go for the Ink Box Pink; if you prefer a heftier keypress without specific sound traits, the Outemu Silver will serve you well.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Box Pink Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Silver Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more