Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options available to choose from. Two popular switches, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, offer distinct typing experiences. The Ink Box Pink is a linear switch, known for its smoothness and lighter typing feel. It provides a higher-pitched clack, which adds a unique auditory element to typing. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple is a tactile switch that offers an exhilarating typing experience with a big tactile bump. It has a snappy sound profile that enhances the overall satisfaction of typing. Both switches have their own appeal and advantages, making it essential to dive deeper to determine the best fit for your individual preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Box Pink and the SP-Star Polaris Purple differ in their housing materials. The Ink Box Pink features a proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing, while the Polaris Purple utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing. In terms of sound profile, both switches offer a relatively high-pitched sound, but the Ink Box Pink is described as having a satisfying thin and clacky sound, while the Polaris Purple offers a sharper and crisper sound. The INK blend and polycarbonate materials contribute to these differences, with the stiffer polycarbonate plastic leading to a more resonant sound profile compared to the INK blend.
Aesthetically, the housing materials of these switches also differ. The Ink Box Pink's INK blend is not described as translucent, while the polycarbonate used in the Polaris Purple's housing allows for a clear and translucent appearance. This makes polycarbonate particularly advantageous for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as the housing material enhances the visual effects of the lighting. However, the Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend still offers a unique and visually appealing housing despite not being translucent. Thus, while the housing materials differ, both switches provide options for users seeking both visual and auditory satisfaction.
Despite their differences, both switches share some similar characteristics when it comes to their housing materials. Both materials contribute to a higher-pitched sound profile, making them suitable for those who prefer a more sharp and clacky keyboard experience. Additionally, the Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend and the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate housing are described as providing a more clear and resonant sound, enhancing the overall typing experience. Therefore, while there may be variations in sound and aesthetics, users can expect similar results in terms of the quality and impact of the housing materials on the overall feel and sound of the switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. On one hand, the Ink Box Pink has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which falls into the medium range. In contrast, the Polaris Purple's actuation force is unavailable, but it has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Ink Box Pink would be a suitable choice. It allows for longer periods of typing without causing much strain or fatigue. Conversely, those who appreciate a more substantial push feel may lean towards the Polaris Purple. With its heavier bottom out force, it provides a satisfying tactile feedback and a more pronounced typing experience.
While the specific actuation force of the Polaris Purple is unknown, it is likely to fall within the medium range since both switches are described as having a similar typing experience. Consequently, those seeking similar results in terms of actuation force could opt for either one. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference, with the Ink Box Pink being lighter and the Polaris Purple being heavier, ensuring a range of options for different typing styles and preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, it is clear that they have different distances. The Ink Box Pink has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Polaris Purple has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Ink Box Pink falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, which is preferred by gamers who desire faster response times. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple provides a slightly longer travel distance, which may be favored by those who enjoy a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. Both switches offer distinct experiences and are suitable for different preferences.
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 SP-Star Polaris Purple has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Purple for $5.00.
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 switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound. When pressed, these switches produce a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. This sound profile may be appealing to those who prefer a more distinct and vibrant typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch has a neutral sound profile. It has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound, making it suitable for most purposes. The sound produced by this switch is neither too loud nor too soft, providing a pleasant typing experience. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch offers a silky and polished typing experience. These switches are exceptionally smooth, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The polished finish of the switch further contributes to a sleek and refined typing experience. Similarly, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch also possesses a polished feel. It provides a mild typing experience, which is more gentle and approachable compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The smooth and refined finish of the switch ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Taking all available information into consideration, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and SP-Star Polaris Purple switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Box Pink switch is characterized by its clacky and high-pitched sound, providing a sharp and vibrant typing experience. It also offers a silky and polished feel, resulting in an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple switch boasts a neutral sound profile that is suitable for most purposes, along with a polished feel that ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel. Although they differ in certain aspects, both switches provide unique and desirable qualities depending on one's personal preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smoother and lighter typing feel, then the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a silky and polished typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. They have a bottom out force of 60 grams, which falls into the medium range. The Ink Box Pink switches produce a high-pitched and clacky sound, which may appeal to those who prefer crisp and bright sound profiles.
On the other hand, if you crave a more exhilarating tactile typing experience, then the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch would be more suitable. These switches feature a big tactile bump, providing a snappy and satisfying typing feel. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, they are considered medium-heavy. In terms of sound, the Polaris Purple switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various environments and users.
Both switches share the characteristic of being polished, which results in a refined and smooth typing experience. However, it's important to note that the Ink Box Pink switches offer a lighter and smoother feel, while the Polaris Purple switches provide a more pronounced tactile experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and SP-Star Polaris Purple switches depends on your personal preferences. Consider whether you prefer a smoother and lighter feel or a more tactile and snappy experience, as well as the sound profile that suits your preferences.
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