Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the HMX SU both present compelling options for users seeking linear switches, yet they offer distinctly different experiences. The Ink Box Pink, with its beautiful translucent design, is celebrated for its silky smoothness and lighter typing feel, producing a high-pitched clack that adds a playful auditory dimension to your typing experience. Its polished nature not only enhances responsiveness but also adds an aesthetic flair to your setup. In contrast, the HMX SU switches embody a more robust build with a full PA12 housing and a T5 stem, resulting in a subtle, deeper sound profile that appeals to users who prefer a more muted auditory feedback while typing. This makes the SU an excellent choice for those who favor a solid, yet smooth typing experience without the higher pitch associated with the Ink Box Pink. Both switches have their unique strengths depending on your typing style and sound preference; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
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
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T5
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Box Pink and HMX SU switches showcase distinct differences in their housing materials, impacting not only the sound profiles but also the tactile experience during use. The Ink Box Pink employs a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housings, which is designed to produce a pointed, high-pitched sound that many users find clacky. This characteristic gives the Ink Box Pink a lively auditory feedback, contributing to an engaging typing experience that some typists prefer for its "satisfying" quality. In contrast, the HMX SU utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, recognized for its classic appeal in switch design. This nylon construction tends to dampen sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is often perceived as duller and rounder compared to the sharper tones emitted from the Ink Box Pink.
The difference in material composition between the two switches extends beyond just their sound profiles. The INK blend used in the Ink Box Pink is a harder material, which amplifies the high-pitched, clacky sound, particularly when releasing a key. This rigidity contributes to a brighter auditory response that can elicit a more energetic typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon composition of the HMX SU is softer, which helps absorb sound waves and decreases resonance. Consequently, both switches offer unique acoustic experiences: while the Ink Box Pink provides clarity and brightness, the HMX SU offers warmth and depth.
Interestingly, if the top and bottom housings of the switches were to be considered together, one might achieve similar auditory outcomes despite the different materials. For instance, the muted sound of the HMX SU's nylon housing could be complemented by the Ink Box Pink's INK blend in a custom configuration, potentially creating a hybrid sound profile that retains elements of both high-pitched clarity and deeper tones. Thus, while the foundational materials differ, the interplay of their sound characteristics showcases the versatility of mechanical keyboards, allowing enthusiasts to tailor their typing experiences to achieve specific acoustic results depending on their personal preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Ink Box Pink features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium switch. In contrast, the HMX SU is lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a more suitable choice for those who prefer a softer touch, ideal for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. While the actuation force of the SU is lower, contributing to a lighter feel, the Ink Box Pink provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier forces. As such, users looking for a lighter option might gravitate toward the HMX SU, while those seeking a firmer push may prefer the Gateron Ink Box Pink.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch share the same travel distance of 3.6 mm, indicating that users can expect a similar sensation when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch. This identical measurement means that the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom is consistent across both models, allowing for a comparable typing experience. Therefore, users can anticipate equal feedback and actuation efficiency when using either the Ink Box Pink or the HMX SU switch.
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 HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
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 characterized by its higher-pitched, clacky sound profile, which offers a sharp and snappy auditory experience when typing. This sound quality is bright and percussive, appealing to those who prefer a more spirited, engaging feedback from their keystrokes. The Ink Box Pink’s sound can enhance the typing experience, particularly for users who enjoy the more vivacious sounds of their keyboard. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch is known for its subtle, relatively deep sound profile due to the full PA12 housing, which likely provides a more muted auditory experience compared to the Ink Box Pink. While the SU may not exhibit the same clacky brightness, it is designed for those who may prefer a softer and less pronounced sound while typing.
When it comes to feel, the Ink Box Pink stands out with its silky and polished characteristics, promising an exceptionally smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance. The refinement in its finish contributes to a sleek and unhindered key travel, making it a delightful choice for touch typists who appreciate a seamless sensation as they type. The factory lubing and quality materials potentially enhance this smoothness, providing a more enjoyable typing experience. Information regarding the feel of the HMX SU switch is unknown, leaving an uncertainty about how it compares in terms of tactile response and overall typing smoothness.
In summary, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch offers a clacky, bright sound profile, alongside a silky and polished feel that is designed for a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX SU linear switch presents a subtly deep auditory signature, though its feel characteristics remain unknown. Depending on personal preferences, users may gravitate towards the Ink Box Pink for its engaging sound and smooth feel, while the HMX SU may appeal to those who favor a more subtle typing auditory experience. The distinct sound and feel qualities between these switches can guide newcomers in selecting a switch that aligns with their desired typing experience, while for someone seeking a quieter or deeper switch, the SU might be worth exploring further.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the HMX SU linear switches largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a medium bottom-out force and a typing experience that offers a smooth yet slightly more tactile feel, along with a bright, clacky sound profile, the Ink Box Pink would be an excellent choice for you. This switch excels in providing a silky typing experience, ensuring minimal friction and a delightful, high-pitched auditory feedback that can make your typing feel both lively and responsive. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing experience with a softer bottom-out force, along with a deeper sound profile that offers a more subtle auditory feedback, the HMX SU might serve you better. Its full PA12 housing contributes to a more subdued sound, which might be ideal if you seek to keep noise levels in check while still enjoying a smooth typing experience. Ultimately, consider what aspects of sound and feel resonate more with you, as that will help you make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Mentioned in this article
