Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. HMX Poro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the HMX Poro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the HMX Poro both stand out as exceptional linear options, each with unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Ink Box Pink is celebrated for its beautiful translucent design and a lighter typing feel, providing users with a smooth and high-pitched clack that adds a distinct auditory element to each keystroke. This switch is perfect for those who appreciate a polished typing experience with a bit of flair. On the other hand, the HMX Poro excels in delivering an effortlessly smooth experience, bolstered by meticulous lubrication that guarantees a silky glide with every press. Its ultra-light actuation force contributes to a satisfyingly poppy and clacky sound profile that speaks to users who enjoy a responsive feel. Overall, while both switches offer unique sensory experiences, the choice comes down to personal preference, be it the clacky charm of the Ink Box Pink or the smooth sophistication of the HMX Poro. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Box Pink and HMX Poro switches feature distinct housing materials that significantly influence their acoustic properties and overall typing experience. The Ink Box Pink utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housings, which contributes to its characteristic pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. This unique blend is engineered to produce a satisfying, thin sound often described as "clacky." In contrast, the HMX Poro is crafted from nylon, a classic material known for its softer composition. This softness allows for greater sound absorption, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile that is less pronounced than the Ink Box Pink’s sharper tonal quality. Overall, while both switches aim to offer enjoyable auditory feedback, their material choices lead to markedly different sound characteristics.
When comparing the bottom housings, the differences in material further highlight the contrasting acoustic properties of these two switches. The Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend bottom housing mirrors the high-pitched sound profile established by its top housing, producing a consistent clacky sound throughout. Meanwhile, the HMX Poro's nylon bottom housing, being softer and more sound-absorbing, creates a deeper and more rounded bottom-out sound. This divergence in sound quality illustrates how each switch’s profile is not solely dictated by one housing but rather suffers division across the top and bottom components. Thus, while the Ink Box Pink maintains a unified clacky theme, the Poro’s output is softened and enriched by its nylon material.
Ultimately, although the Ink Box Pink and HMX Poro houses differ structurally and acoustically, typists can still find common ground in the pleasurable typing experience each provides. Each switch's design highlights the unique characteristics of its materials, meaning that users will have distinct feel and sound experiences regardless of the shared purpose of key presses. Those seeking a high-pitched, clacky feedback may prefer the Ink Box Pink, while those who favor a deeper and fuller auditory sensation might gravitate towards the HMX Poro. In essence, while the physical compositions diverge, the attention to material properties ensures that both switches deliver engaging auditory experiences tailored to their respective designs.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Ink Box Pink requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which provides a more substantial feel when typing. In contrast, the Poro switch features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a softer, less strenuous typing experience. Those who type for long periods or engage in extensive gaming sessions might gravitate towards the Poro for its lighter touch, while those favoring a more pronounced tactile feedback may prefer the Ink Box Pink. In summary, the Ink Box Pink is the heavier option, offering a medium resistance, whereas the Poro is lighter, making it the preferred choice for users seeking a gentler press.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Poro linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This makes the Ink Box Pink the shorter option and the Poro the longer one. For gamers who favor quicker response times, the Ink Box Pink may be the more appealing choice due to its marginally reduced travel. However, the Poro's greater travel distance might provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more tactile experience when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between these switches hinges on personal preference for responsiveness versus depth in the keyfeel.
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 HMX Poro has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Poro for $2.99.
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 linear switch delivers a distinctly higher-pitched and clacky auditory experience, characterized by a sharp and snappy resonance. This bright, percussive sound provides a lively typing atmosphere and is suited for those who appreciate a more alert auditory feedback from their keyboard. In contrast, while the subjective sound profile of the HMX Poro linear switch is not detailed, it is known for its poppy sound characteristics. The combination of an ultra-light actuation force and meticulous lubrication likely results in a pleasant yet different sound profile, though without specific descriptors, one can only speculate on its auditory nuances. Overall, both switches present a sharpness in sound, but the Ink Box Pink’s high-pitched clackiness is more pronounced.
When considering the feel, the Ink Box Pink excels with a silky and polished typing experience, allowing for smooth and frictionless keystrokes. The factory lubing and refined construction contribute to a typing sensation that minimizes resistance, enhancing the overall fluidity when pressing and releasing keys. Although the HMX Poro does boast ultra-light actuation and silkiness attributed to its lubrication, its specific tactile feedback has not been outlined in detail. Consequently, while both switches prioritize a smooth experience, the Ink Box Pink is known for its refined texture that provides clear advantages for users seeking elegance in feel.
In summary, while the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is revered for its high-pitched, clacky sound and exceptionally smooth typing experience, the HMX Poro’s auditory profile remains less detailed, albeit praised for its lightness and lubrication for seamless keystrokes. Both offer smoothness in feel, yet the sensory aspects differ significantly, particularly in sound where the Ink Box Pink is more defined. This distinction suggests that enthusiasts might have a preference based on their auditory and tactile preferences, and while performance could overlap in some respects, the characteristics of each switch will lead to distinct user experiences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the HMX Poro linear switches largely depends on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and the desired force required for actuation. If you appreciate a medium bottom-out force and enjoy a crisper, high-pitched sound that adds a lively character to your typing experience, the Ink Box Pink switch may be the better fit for you. Its silky smoothness and polished feel make it suitable for both intense gaming sessions and long typing tasks. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and value a satisfying poppy sound with an effortlessly smooth keystroke, the HMX Poro would likely be your go-to choice. Its exceptionally lubricated design elevates your typing experience, making it particularly enjoyable for casual use or if you tend to type quickly. Ultimately, consider your priorities regarding sound, feel, and force when making your decision, and you’ll find the switch that best aligns with your needs.
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