Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. HMX Perky

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the HMX Perky stand out as two appealing linear options, each catering to distinct preferences among typists and gamers alike. The Ink Box Pink switches are celebrated for their smoothness and lighter typing feel, paired with a notable higher-pitched clack that adds a delightful auditory experience to your keystrokes. This makes them a great choice for those who enjoy a more pronounced sound profile while typing. In contrast, the HMX Perky switches provide a softer touch thanks to their glittery nylon housings, offering a neutral and deeply satisfying typing experience. With a shorter travel distance, the Perky switches allow for quicker keystrokes, presenting an advantage for fast-paced typists. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches may hinge on whether you prioritize auditory feedback or a more condensed 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

Gateron Ink Box Pink Linear

HMX Perky Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron Ink Box Pink and HMX Perky switches showcase distinct differences in their housing materials, which profoundly influence the sound profiles and tactile experiences they provide. The Ink Box Pink features Gateron's proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housings, which is characterized by a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. This creates a more clacky and thin auditory experience, enhancing the acoustics associated with typing. In contrast, the HMX Perky utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings. Nylon, known for its softer texture, tends to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience that is described as duller and rounder. This fundamental difference in material not only alters the sound but also affects the overall feel of typing on each switch.

While the Gateron Ink Box Pink delivers a higher-pitched and more pronounced clack due to its INK blend housings, the HMX Perky's nylon components provide a contrasting experience. The latter's capability to absorb sound means that when typing, users will experience a softer and less jarring impact, which can be more forgiving and pleasant over extended use. Each switch offers a different approach to sound dynamics; thus, users with preferences for sharp or rounded audio feedback will find their choice deeply influenced by the materials used. Though both materials serve the fundamental purpose of housing the switch mechanism, their acoustic properties allow for a diverse typing experience.

In terms of sound results, while both the Ink Box Pink and HMX Perky switches fundamentally offer distinct auditory experiences, it is important to recognize how these housing materials might produce complementary outcomes when considering the actuation and bottom-out effects. The bottom housing's impact on sound and feel is significant; with the Ink Box Pink’s clackiness resonating through its INK blend, the Perky may incorporate a warmer, muted response, but can still offer unique tactility, especially felt during the actuation. Thus, although the top and bottom housing materials differ in composition and resultant sound, individuals may find that the combination of these unique acoustic characteristics results in an enriching experience. Ultimately, the choice will hinge on personal preference regarding sound profiles and tactile feedback.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Ink Box Pink features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium switch overall. In contrast, the HMX Perky offers a lighter experience with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Perky switch is easier to press down, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. Meanwhile, the Ink Box Pink's heavier actuation and bottom out forces may appeal to those seeking a more substantial and tactile feel with their keystrokes. Ultimately, if you lean towards a lighter switch, the HMX Perky would be the better choice, while those who enjoy a firmer resistance might prefer the Ink Box Pink.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the HMX Perky linear switch, it is clear that the Ink Box Pink has a longer travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Perky features a slightly shorter distance of 3.4 mm. For those who favor quicker responses in their keystrokes, such as gamers, the Perky's shorter travel may offer the enhanced responsiveness they seek. Conversely, users who appreciate a more pronounced tactile feedback might favor the Ink Box Pink due to its greater travel distance. Ultimately, while both switches offer different tactile experiences, your choice will depend on your personal preferences for depth and responsiveness during use.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profiles of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the HMX Perky linear switches, the Ink Box Pink stands out with its distinctively higher-pitched clacky sound. This sharp, snappy auditory feedback adds a bright, percussive quality to each keystroke, making it ideal for users who prefer a more pronounced auditory experience while typing. The Perky switches, on the other hand, do not have a definitive sound profile articulated, leaving it unclear how they compare in this regard. However, it’s important to note that sound characteristics can also vary based on the choice of keyboard and keycaps, so individual setups will significantly influence the overall sound experienced.

In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches offer a silky and polished typing experience that enhances smoothness and minimizes resistance. This refined finish results from high-quality materials and effective factory lubing, providing users with a key travel that feels light and fluid. The Perky switches are noted for their softer nylon housings, which contribute to a deeply satisfying and neutral typing feel. Their shorter travel distance can create a more condensed typing experience, making them potentially more suitable for those who prioritize speed in their keystrokes. While both switches are designed for smooth operation, the Ink Box Pink's silky qualities may appeal more to those who enjoy a luxurious typing experience.

In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switches are characterized by their high-pitched, clacky sound and a smooth, polished feel, making them a good choice for users who appreciate an engaging auditory and tactile experience. Meanwhile, the HMX Perky linear switches offer their own unique appeal with a softer, satisfying feel and a potentially shorter travel distance. While the sound profile of the Perky remains unspecified, it can be assumed that both switches cater to different preferences, and users will likely find a satisfying typing experience with either option, especially considering the impact of individual setups on sound and feel.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between Gateron Ink Box Pink and HMX Perky linear switches will largely depend on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you favor a medium bottom out force that delivers a smooth and silky typing experience, the Ink Box Pink is an excellent option. Its higher-pitched clack can be quite satisfying if you appreciate a more acoustic feedback during typing—ideal for both typists and gamers who enjoy a lively sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom out force of only 50 grams and a typing experience that feels condensed and neutral, the HMX Perky is the way to go. Its softer feel and glittery finish provide an impressive tactile sensation, especially if you prioritize a satisfying keypress without the additional acoustic presence. Ultimately, your choice should align with the balance between the tactile feedback you desire and the typing experience that feels most comfortable for you.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Box Pink Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more

HMX Perky Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more