Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are numerous options available in the market. Two popular switches to consider are the Gateron Ink Box Pink, a linear switch, and the Kailh Sage, a clicky switch. The Ink Box Pink switches are best known for their smoothness and lighter typing feel compared to other mechanical switches. They also possess a higher-pitched clack, which can add a unique element to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Sage switches offer a distinct clicky typing experience with a refreshingly sharp clickiness. They have a heavier weight, providing a satisfying crunch with each press. Both switches have their own unique qualities and benefits to offer. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Kailh Sage differ significantly. The Ink Box Pink features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile without being overly sharp. This results in a satisfying and clacky sound. In contrast, the Sage utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate as a plastic contributes to the clarity and resonance of the sound. Furthermore, the clear nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Ink Box Pink continues to use its proprietary INK blend material. This bottom housing further enhances the pointed and high-pitched sound profile of the switch. Conversely, the Sage employs a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This creates a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches using nylon.
Although the top and bottom housings differ between the two switches, both contribute to the overall sound and feel of the keypress. The bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. As a result, users can expect similar results in terms of sound profiles, with the Ink Box Pink offering a slightly clackier sound and the Sage providing a crisper and sharper sound. However, the choice between the two switches ultimately boils down to personal preference and desired aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, there are some notable differences. The actuation force of the Ink Box Pink is 50 grams, while the actuation force of the Sage is unknown. However, both switches have a medium level of actuation force. The bottom out force of the Ink Box Pink is 60 grams, whereas the Sage has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, making it medium-heavy. While the Ink Box Pink offers a medium typing experience, the Sage provides a slightly more substantial feel due to its heavier bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Ink Box Pink would be more suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. However, individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel may find the Sage more to their liking. In terms of weight, the Ink Box Pink is lighter compared to the Sage. Overall, while both switches have similar actuation forces, the differences in bottom out force and weight make for distinctive typing experiences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch both have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance traveled. Both switches offer a consistent and satisfying keystroke experience in terms of the physical sensation. Therefore, whether you opt for the Gateron Ink Box Pink or the Kailh Sage, you can expect similar results in terms of 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 Kailh Sage comes in at $6.25 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 and the Kailh Sage offer different experiences. The Ink Box Pink is known for its higher-pitched clack, which produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. This results in a more crisp, bright, and percussive sound profile. On the other hand, the Sage is described as having a distinct clicky typing experience with a crunchy sound. It resembles the sound of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. However, based on the available information, one can expect a higher-pitched clack from the Ink Box Pink and a crunchy sound from the Sage.
In terms of feel, the Ink Box Pink offers a silky and polished typing experience. It is considered a silky switch, providing an exceptionally smooth typing feel with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This smoothness is attributed to the materials used and/or factory lubing, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Sage is described as invigorating and sharp. It offers pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. The tactile bump in the Sage is strong and crisp, providing a distinct tactile sensation with each keystroke. Comparatively, the Ink Box Pink focuses more on a smooth and refined typing experience, while the Sage emphasizes a more pronounced tactile feedback.
Taking into account all the available information, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Kailh Sage offer contrasting subjective qualities. The Ink Box Pink is characterized by a higher-pitched clack sound and a lighter, smoother, and polished typing feel. On the other hand, the Sage provides a distinct clicky typing experience with a crunchy sound and an invigorating, sharp tactile feel. It ultimately comes down to personal preference, as some individuals may prefer the smoothness and lighter feel of the Ink Box Pink, while others may enjoy the crisp clickiness and pronounced feedback of the Sage. However, if you are seeking a similar typing experience, the Ink Box Pink can provide a comparable level of smoothness and the Sage can offer a similar level of tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a linear switch with a lighter typing feel and a higher-pitched clack sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink is a great choice. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, it offers a medium force that is comfortable for most typists. The Ink Box Pink is best known for its smoothness and lighter feel, making it a popular option for those who prefer a gentler typing experience. It also produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, which adds some auditory satisfaction to your typing sessions.
On the other hand, if you're in search of a clicky switch that offers a heavy typing feel and a refreshing sharp clickiness, the Kailh Sage would be a great fit. With a bottom out force of 70 grams, it provides a medium-heavy force that adds some resistance and weight to each keypress. The Sage switches offer a distinct clicky typing experience, known for their pronounced feedback and snappy feel. They produce a crunchy sound similar to stepping on piles of autumn leaves, adding an enjoyable auditory element to your keystrokes.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Kailh Sage will depend on your personal preferences. If you value smoothness, a lighter feel, and a higher-pitched clack sound, the Ink Box Pink is a solid option. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier feel, pronounced feedback, and a refreshing sharp clickiness, the Sage would be a better fit. Consider your typing style and what qualities you prioritize in a switch to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. In the end, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, so choose the one that resonates with your preferences and typing needs.
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