Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Gateron Smoothie Silver mechanical keyboard switches, there are a few key differences to consider. The Ink Box Pink is a linear switch known for its smoothness and lighter typing feel, along with a higher-pitched clack during use. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver is also a linear switch but features a shorter travel distance for quicker actuation, along with a unique thocky sound and unparalleled smoothness. While the Ink Box Pink offers a silky and polished typing experience, the Smoothie Silver provides a feather-light touch and lightning-fast response. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
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
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Gateron Smoothie Silver both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Ink Box Pink utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a satisfyingly thin and higher-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver features POM housing for both the top and bottom, creating a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, the INK blend of the Ink Box Pink provides a sharper and more pointed sound, while the POM housing of the Smoothie Silver offers a deeper and more muted tone.
In terms of the top housing material, the Ink Box Pink's INK blend produces a relatively high-pitched and pointed sound profile, while the Smoothie Silver's POM top housing creates a more muted and deeper tone. This results in a distinct difference in sound when pressing down on the keys of each switch. Similarly, the bottom housing material of the Ink Box Pink and the Smoothie Silver also play a crucial role in the overall sound profile of the switches. The INK blend of the Ink Box Pink offers a satisfyingly thin and clacky sound, while the POM housing of the Smoothie Silver provides a unique and pleasing deeper tone.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Gateron Smoothie Silver result in different sound profiles, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience. The unique qualities of each housing material, whether it be the INK blend of the Ink Box Pink or the POM housing of the Smoothie Silver, contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches. Additionally, the impact of each housing material is felt differently when pressing down on the keys versus when letting go, showcasing the nuanced differences between the two switches. Ultimately, whether you prefer the sharper, clackier sound of the Ink Box Pink or the deeper, more muted sound of the Smoothie Silver, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is 50 grams, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, making the Smoothie Silver the lighter option. Both switches have medium actuation forces, providing a balanced typing experience. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ink Box Pink requires 60 grams to fully press down, while the bottom out force of the Smoothie Silver is unknown. Choosing a switch with a lower bottom out force like the Smoothie Silver may be preferred by those who enjoy a lighter touch, allowing for longer typing sessions without finger fatigue. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the Ink Box Pink provides a more substantial typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing experience and desired level of force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, the Ink Box Pink has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Smoothie Silver has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Smoothie Silver has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Ink Box Pink. Typically, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth to the key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
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 Gateron Smoothie Silver has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie Silver for $2.60.
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
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is known for its high-pitched and clacky sound, providing a sharp and crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch offers a thocky sound that is unmatched in smoothness, making for a quieter typing experience. In terms of feel, the Ink Box Pink is described as silky and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth typing feel with minimal resistance. The Smoothie Silver, while lacking specific descriptors for feel, is known for its feather-light touch and lightning-fast actuation due to its all-POM construction. Ultimately, while the sound and feel of these switches may vary, both the Gateron Ink Box Pink and Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can achieve their desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, consider your preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and actuation force. If you enjoy a smoother and lighter typing experience with a higher-pitched clack sound, the Ink Box Pink may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a thocky sound, lightning-fast actuation, and an all-POM construction, the Smoothie Silver could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style to ensure the best typing experience.
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