Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Outemu Spring Breeze
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Box Pink's smooth and light typing feel, accompanied by a higher-pitched clack, make it a popular choice for those seeking a linear switch experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze, a clicky switch, offers a different tactile experience with its unique design. While the Spring Breeze does not have any standout features mentioned, its clicky nature may appeal to those who prefer a more tactile 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
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
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 Spring Breeze, one can see clear distinctions in the sound profile produced. The Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend top housing offers a pointed and high-pitched sound, described as clacky. In contrast, the Spring Breeze's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic's ability to absorb more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound of the INK blend.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the two switches also exhibit differences in sound and feel. The INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Pink maintains the high-pitched and clacky sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Spring Breeze contributes to a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer material. This difference in sound profile can significantly impact the overall typing experience for users, as the bottom-out sound and feel will be influenced by the bottom housing material chosen.
Overall, the choice of housing material for a switch can greatly affect the sound and feel experienced by the user. Both the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Outemu Spring Breeze offer unique characteristics in their housing materials, with the INK blend providing a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile, while the nylon offers a deeper and fuller sound. Understanding the impact of these housing materials on the overall typing experience can help users make an informed decision based on their preferences for sound and feel when it comes to mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch's 40 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ink Box Pink requires 60 grams while the Spring Breeze needs 55 grams, making the Spring Breeze the lighter option in that aspect. Both switches fall under the medium to medium-light category, providing a balance between a comfortable typing experience and a satisfying tactile feedback. Users who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Outemu Spring Breeze, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance may lean towards the Gateron Ink Box Pink. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, it is evident that the Ink Box Pink has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Spring Breeze has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Ink Box Pink's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Spring Breeze's longer travel distance might provide a more substantial key press feel for those who prefer it. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Ink Box Pink being slightly shorter than average and the Spring Breeze falling within the standard range. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key press feel.
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 Spring Breeze 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 best known for its high-pitched and clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch does not have a specific sound description available, making it harder to determine how it compares in terms of sound. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is influenced by various factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
In regard to feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch offers a silky and polished typing experience, known for its exceptionally smooth key travel and reduced friction. The lighter typing feel of these switches enhances overall smoothness and minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Conversely, no feel description is available for the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, making it more challenging to compare the tactile experience it provides.
Overall, if you are looking for a keyboard switch with a high-pitched and clacky sound profile along with a silky and polished typing feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch lacks specific information on sound and feel, making it uncertain how it compares to the Ink Box Pink. Ultimately, selecting the best switch for your preferences may involve trying out both options to determine which one provides the desired sound and typing experience that suits your needs best.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, you should consider the differences in bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly 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 are looking for a switch with a medium-light bottom out force and are not as concerned with sound and feel, the Spring Breeze could be a suitable option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
Mentioned in this article
