Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura stand out as notable choices for different preferences. The Ink Box Pink offers a smoother, lighter typing feel with a higher-pitched clack, making it ideal for those who enjoy a 'clacky' and 'polished' typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura provides a tactile response with a buttery downstroke, striking a delicate balance between pronounced tactility and a mild sound signature. If you prefer a switch that is 'snappy', 'buttery', and 'neutral', the Purple Sakura may be more appealing to you. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura, it's clear that both switches offer unique sound profiles. The Ink Box Pink, with its proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing, provides a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the Purple Sakura results in a more clear and resonant sound compared to the Ink Box Pink.
While the top housing of the Ink Box Pink and the Purple Sakura differ in material, their bottom housing also showcases distinct qualities. The Ink Box Pink's INK blend bottom housing contributes to its satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound profile. In contrast, the Purple Sakura's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound due to the material's softer and more sound-absorbing nature. These differences in bottom housing material further distinguish the sound profiles of the two switches.
Overall, the choice of housing material for a switch can greatly impact the sound and feel of typing. The Ink Box Pink and the Purple Sakura offer contrasting experiences based on their housing materials. While the Ink Box Pink leans towards a sharper and clacky sound, the Purple Sakura provides a crisper and deeper sound due to its polycarbonate and nylon housings, respectively. Understanding how different housing materials can affect sound profiles is crucial for enthusiasts looking to customize their keyboard experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, both switches have an equal actuation force of 50 grams and bottom out force of 60 grams, making them medium in terms of weight. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the force required for each keystroke. The actuation force determines the force needed to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the force required to press the key all the way down. Some users may prefer lighter switches like these for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may opt for heavier switches for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and Sarokeys Purple Sakura will come down to personal preference in terms of weight and typing feel.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, it is clear that the Purple Sakura has a shorter travel distance of 3.2mm compared to the Ink Box Pink's 3.6mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The shorter distance of the Purple Sakura may appeal to those prioritizing quick key presses, while the slightly longer travel distance of the Ink Box Pink may provide a more comfortable and deliberate typing experience for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for travel distance and key response.
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 Sarokeys Purple Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Sakura for $3.15.
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 offers a clacky and high-pitched experience, known for producing a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp and bright. In contrast, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch provides a more neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps chosen.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch is characterized by its silky and polished typing experience, offering smooth key travel and minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch delivers a buttery and mild typing sensation, providing a uniform and effortless keystroke experience with just the right amount of tactile feedback. Additionally, the snappy response of the Purple Sakura switch adds an element of liveliness to the typing experience.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron Ink Box Pink and Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, they cater to different preferences. If you prefer a sharper and higher-pitched sound with a smoother typing feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink may be your ideal choice. Alternatively, if you appreciate a neutral sound profile with a buttery and mild typing sensation that is also snappy, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch could be the perfect fit for you. Ultimately, both switches provide excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking a top-notch typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch or the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, you should take into account your preference for typing feel and sound. If you prefer a smoother and lighter typing feel with a higher-pitched clack sound, the Ink Box Pink may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile and snappy typing experience with a mild and neutral sound signature, the Purple Sakura may suit your preferences better. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal typing style and preferences for sound and feel.
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