Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are countless options to choose from, each offering its own unique typing experience. Two switches that stand out among the rest are the Gateron Ink Box Pink, a linear switch, and the SP-Star Duck, a tactile switch. The Ink Box Pink switches are best known for their beautiful translucent design and smooth feel. Typing on these switches provides a lighter sensation compared to other switches, accompanied by a higher-pitched clack. On the other hand, the Duck switches offer a more subtle tactile experience. Typing on them provides a gentle tactility, while maintaining a clean and crisp sound profile. Both switches have their own distinctive characteristics that cater to different preferences. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the SP-Star Duck differ in terms of their composition. The Ink Box Pink utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. On the other hand, the Duck features polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, polycarbonate is advantageous if you plan to use RGB lighting due to its translucency. In terms of sound, the housing materials have a similar effect, with both providing a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound.
Despite their differences in composition, the housing materials of both switches bring unique qualities to the overall typing experience. The bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of a key press. Therefore, users will be able to feel the qualities of the Ink Box Pink's INK blend or the Duck's polycarbonate when they press down on the switches. The INK blend offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, while the polycarbonate contributes to a sharper and crisper sound. On the other hand, the top housing is responsible for the sound when a key is released. Whether it's the INK blend or the polycarbonate, the top housing will have more impact on the sound that is produced.
While the Ink Box Pink and the SP-Star Duck use different housing materials, their goal is ultimately the same - to provide a satisfying typing experience with distinctive sound profiles. The Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend, characterized by a clacky and thin sound, offers a unique auditory sensation. Similarly, the Duck's polycarbonate housing provides a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches aim to enhance the overall typing experience and cater to different preferences. Therefore, regardless of the choice between the Ink Box Pink and the SP-Star Duck, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and overall satisfaction with their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, there are a few notable differences. The Ink Box Pink has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Duck's actuation force is not specified. However, both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Ink Box Pink requiring 60 grams and the Duck requiring 58 grams.
In terms of weight, some individuals may prefer a lighter switch for extended typing sessions or lengthy gaming sessions. The lighter actuation force of the Ink Box Pink would make it suitable for those who value longer periods of typing without fatigue. Additionally, the medium bottom out force of the Ink Box Pink provides a satisfying push feel without being too heavy.
On the other hand, some users prefer a more substantial typing experience and enjoy a stronger push feel. For these individuals, the heavier actuation force of the Duck, while unspecified, may offer a more substantial typing experience. The medium bottom out force of 58 grams in the Duck also provides a satisfying push feel without being overly heavy.
In summary, while the actuation force of the Ink Box Pink is lighter than that of the Duck, both switches offer a similar medium bottom out force. This means that individuals seeking a satisfying typing experience can achieve similar results by selecting either switch, depending on their preference for a lighter or heavier actuation force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch have different travel distances. The Ink Box Pink has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the traditional 4 mm distance of the Duck. The shorter travel distance of the Ink Box Pink appeals to gamers who prioritize faster response times and a more responsive feel when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Duck switch provides a deeper and more substantial feel for those who prefer a greater sense of depth when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to 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 SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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 is best described as clacky and high-pitched. A clacky switch produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, resulting in a crisp, bright, and percussive sound profile. The higher-pitched nature of these switches adds to the sharpness and crispness of the sound. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch has a neutral sound profile. Neutral switches have a moderate sound profile, making them suitable for most purposes. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is known for its silky and polished characteristics. Silky switches offer an exceptionally smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The polished finish of these switches further enhances the smoothness and refinement of the typing feel. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offers a mild and buttery typing experience. A mild switch provides a gentle typing sensation, making it approachable to most users. The buttery nature of these switches adds a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, resulting in a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Additionally, the polished finish of the Duck switch contributes to reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Taking all the available information into account, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch offers a higher-pitched and clacky sound profile, accompanied by a silky and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile along with a mild and buttery typing experience. Both switches have a polished finish, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. If you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience, the Duck switch would be a great choice. However, if you are looking for a switch with a lighter and smoother typing feel along with a higher-pitched sound, the Ink Box Pink would be a suitable option.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing feel and sound. If you prefer a lighter typing feel and a higher-pitched clack sound, the Ink Box Pink is a great choice. It offers a silky and polished typing experience, with enhanced smoothness and reduced friction. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile, the Duck switch is perfect. It offers a mild and buttery typing feel, providing a gentle and uniform typing sensation. Additionally, the Duck switch has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on your individual preferences for typing feel and sound.
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