Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the KTT Purple Star mechanical keyboard switches, it's essential to consider the distinct qualities that set them apart. The Ink Box Pink switch is renowned for its smooth and light typing feel, accompanied by a higher-pitched clack that adds a unique touch to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Star switch stands out for its buttery smooth typing sensation and very light 45g bottom-out, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a softer keypress. While the Ink Box Pink is characterized by its 'clacky' and 'high-pitched' attributes, the Purple Star is known for being 'mild' and 'low-pitched', offering an easy-to-press sensation. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Box Pink and the KTT Purple Star both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their respective sound profiles. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Pink provides a higher-pitched, clacky sound, while the POM top housing of the Purple Star offers a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profile may appeal to different preferences, with the Ink Box Pink being described as more sharp and the Purple Star as more subdued.
In terms of bottom housing, the Ink Box Pink's INK blend bottom housing also contributes to its thin and higher-pitched sound profile, while the POM bottom housing of the Purple Star adds to its deeper and more muted sound. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, further emphasizing the differences in sound profile between the two switches. This difference in bottom housing material can impact the overall typing experience for users who prefer a certain type of sound and feel.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the KTT Purple Star will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. While both switches offer unique characteristics attributed to their housing materials, the INK blend top and bottom housing of the Ink Box Pink create a sharper, clacky sound compared to the deeper, more muted sound of the POM top and bottom housing of the Purple Star. Regardless of the choice, both switches provide quality housing materials that enhance the typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, there are noticeable differences in weight. The Gateron Ink Box Pink has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a medium typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Purple Star offers a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option overall. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons, the KTT Purple Star may be the better choice. However, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience with a bit more resistance may lean towards the Gateron Ink Box Pink. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, slightly longer than the 3.5 mm travel distance of the KTT Purple Star linear switch. Both switches fall within the category of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for gaming where quick response times are important. However, the slight difference in travel distance may be noticeable to some users, with the Ink Box Pink providing a slightly deeper press compared to the Purple Star. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for a slightly longer or shorter travel distance.
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 KTT Purple Star comes in at $4.88 per 10 switches.
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 linear switch is known for its high-pitched and clacky nature, offering a sharp and crisp sound profile that some users may find satisfying. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch boasts a low-pitched sound that leans towards a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, providing a different auditory experience. Keep in mind that keyboard sound is also influenced by factors like the keyboard's construction and keycaps used, so the final sound outcome may vary.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch is praised for its silky and polished characteristics, ensuring a smooth typing experience with minimized resistance while pressing and releasing keys. Meanwhile, the KTT Purple Star switch is described as mild and easy-to-press, offering a gentle typing experience with light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Both switches provide comfort and ease of typing, catering to users with different preferences in tactile feedback.
Considering the information provided, it is evident that the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Ink Box Pink leans towards a higher-pitched and clacky sound with a silky and polished typing feel, the Purple Star provides a lower-pitched sound with a mild and easy-to-press typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, but rest assured that both options promise a satisfying and efficient typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch or the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a switch with a medium bottom out force and enjoy a higher-pitched, clacky sound, then the Ink Box Pink might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth, buttery typing experience with a low-pitched sound, then the Purple Star switch could be the ideal option for you. Consider how you like your switches to feel and sound while typing, and choose accordingly to enhance your overall typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so make sure to choose the one that best aligns with your typing style.
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