Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch, two options that warrant consideration are the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower). The Ink Box Pink is a linear switch known for its smoothness and lighter typing feel compared to other mechanical switches. Additionally, it offers a distinct higher-pitched clack when in use. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is a tactile switch that boasts maximum tactility. The switch delivers a sharp tactility and a satisfying clean clack while typing. While these general pointers provide an overview of their characteristics, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your 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
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Proprietary
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
POM
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 Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) differ in their housing materials, which greatly contribute to their unique sound profiles. The Ink Box Pink features a proprietary INK blend top housing, known for its pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. This creates a satisfying, clacky sound that is not overly sharp. In contrast, the POM T1 (Sunflower) utilizes a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and relatively more muted sound. While both switches offer pleasing and unique sound experiences, the Ink Box Pink leans towards a higher-pitched, clacky sound, while the POM T1 produces a deeper and somewhat softer profile.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the Ink Box Pink and the POM T1 differ, further impacting their overall sound profiles. The Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend bottom housing mirrors its top housing, contributing to the switch's pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. This lends a consistent clacky feel to the switch when bottoming out. On the other hand, the POM T1 employs a POM bottom housing, creating a deeper and more muted sound during bottom-out. This difference in bottom housings results in distinctive tactile experiences when pressing down on each switch.
When considering the overall typing experience, it is essential to acknowledge the influence of both the top and bottom housings of these switches. While the bottom housing primarily affects the sound and feel during bottom-out, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, with the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Durock POM T1, you can expect similar results in terms of how the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel, but the distinctive qualities of the top housings will offer different sound profiles when keys are released. Ultimately, these differences in housing materials allow individuals to choose the switch that best aligns with their desired typing experience and preferred sound characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, we see some similarities and differences. Firstly, in terms of actuation force, the Ink Box Pink requires 50 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the exact actuation force for the POM T1 is unknown. Therefore, we cannot make a direct comparison in this aspect. Moving on to bottom out force, the Ink Box Pink requires 60 grams of force to fully press down, which is considered medium. On the other hand, the POM T1 has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Ink Box Pink and classified as medium-heavy.
Considering weight, some users may prefer a lighter switch like the Ink Box Pink as it allows for longer typing periods and is ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. However, others may prioritize a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, indicating a preference for switches with heavier forces. Therefore, individuals seeking a slightly heavier typing experience may find the POM T1 to be a suitable choice.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Pink has a known actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an unknown actuation force and a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams. Depending on personal preferences, one can choose between a medium force experience with the Ink Box Pink or a slightly heavier medium-heavy force with the POM T1.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the POM T1 has a slightly longer distance compared to the Ink Box Pink. A 4.0mm travel distance is considered to be the most traditional, while a 3.0mm distance is more shallow. However, shorter travel distances are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. For those seeking a more responsive key press, the Ink Box Pink with its shorter travel distance may be the better choice. On the other hand, if a deeper key press is preferred, the switch with the longer travel distance, the POM T1, may be a more suitable option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) for $5.57.
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 switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile. With a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, these switches provide a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch offers a resonant sound profile. Typing on these switches produces a higher-pitched and clean clack, resulting in an immersive auditory experience. In terms of sound, both switches offer distinct characteristics, with the Ink Box Pink leaning towards a clackier and higher-pitched sound, while the POM T1 (Sunflower) provides a resonant and clean auditory experience.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch is all about smoothness. With a silky typing experience, these switches minimize resistance when pressing and releasing keys, offering an exceptionally smooth feel. Additionally, the Ink Box Pink switch is described as polished, providing a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is known for its sharp and accented tactile bump. These switches offer a high feedback intensity, with a distinct and crisp tactile bump on each keypress. Moreover, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is also described as snappy and invigorating, delivering a super responsive and immersive typing sensation. In terms of feel, the Ink Box Pink offers a smooth and refined experience, while the POM T1 (Sunflower) provides a sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating tactile feel.
Overall, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Box Pink provides a clacky and high-pitched sound with a smooth and polished feel, while the POM T1 (Sunflower) offers a resonant sound profile with a sharp and accented tactile feel. These switches cater to different preferences, with the Ink Box Pink favoring those who enjoy a lighter typing feel and the POM T1 (Sunflower) appealing to individuals seeking maximum tactility. Depending on your personal preference and typing style, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a lighter typing feel, smoother key travel, and a higher-pitched clack sound, then the Ink Box Pink would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if maximum tactility and a clean clack sound are what you're after, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is the switch for you. With its sharp tactility, pronounced feedback, and moderate to firm actuation force, the POM T1 (Sunflower) provides a satisfying and invigorating typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you when making your decision.
Mentioned in this article
