Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Jwick Taro

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Jwick Taro are two popular options that offer distinct typing experiences. The Ink Box Pink switches are best known for their smoothness and light typing feel, making them a great choice for users who prefer a softer touch. Additionally, the higher-pitched clack produced by these switches adds a unique auditory element to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro switches offer a comfortable and subdued typing experience, with a snappy, medium-level of tactility. The acute and crisp clacks produced by these switches add a satisfying auditory feedback. While these are just general pointers to help you make an initial decision, it's important to dive in deeper to understand the specific characteristics and features of each switch before choosing the one that best suits your preferences and typing style.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Box Pink Linear

Jwick Taro Tactile

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Jwick Taro differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profile. The Ink Box Pink utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housing. This blend creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. On the other hand, the Taro features a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The polycarbonate material lends itself well to RGB lighting due to its translucency. Additionally, the Taro employs a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile.

While the top and bottom housings differ between the Ink Box Pink and the Taro, their overall impact on the switch's sound profile can be compared. Both switches provide a high-pitched sound, although the Ink Box Pink offers a slightly less sharp sound profile. The polycarbonate top housing of the Taro contributes to a more resonant and clear sound, while the nylon bottom housing adds depth and fullness. Although the specifics vary, both switches aim to deliver a satisfying and clacky sound experience. Therefore, if you are seeking a switch with a thin and higher-pitched sound, either option will provide similar results.

When it comes to the tactile experience of pressing down and releasing a key, the bottom and top housing play different roles. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when you press down on the switch. Since the Ink Box Pink and the Taro have different bottom housings (proprietary INK blend and nylon, respectively), their impact on this aspect will differ. On the other hand, the top housing of a switch affects the sound produced when you let go of a key. While the Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend and the Taro's polycarbonate top housing result in different sound profiles, both aim to provide a satisfying and unique experience upon key release.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The actuation force of the Ink Box Pink is 50 grams, while the actuation force of the Taro switch is unavailable at this time. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Ink Box Pink having a bottom out force of 60 grams and the Taro having a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy.

Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch, as it can impact the typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter switch, the Ink Box Pink would be a suitable choice, as its actuation and bottom out forces are on the lighter side. This makes it ideal for long typing or gaming sessions as it requires less force to engage the keystrokes.

On the other hand, some individuals prefer a stronger and more substantial typing experience. They may prefer the Taro switch, which has a heavier bottom out force compared to the Ink Box Pink. This heavier force can provide a more satisfying and tactile feedback to those who prefer a more pronounced keystroke response.

In cases where the actuation force of the Taro switch is unknown, it is difficult to make a direct comparison to the Ink Box Pink. However, based on the provided information, it can be inferred that the Taro switch may have a similar actuation force to the Ink Box Pink or potentially heavier, considering its medium-heavy bottom out force. Therefore, individuals seeking a similar typing experience to the Ink Box Pink but with a heavier bottom out force may find the Taro switch to be a suitable alternative.

Travel distance

The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm. These shorter travel distances are preferred by gamers as they allow for faster response times. If you are looking for a more responsive typing experience, the Gateron Ink Box Pink with its slightly shorter travel distance may be the better choice. However, if you prefer a deeper, more substantial feel when typing, the Jwick Taro with its slightly longer travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is best described as clacky and high-pitched. It produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, with a crisp, bright, and percussive quality. This makes it a great choice for those who prefer a more distinct and lively sound profile. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. It has a moderate actuation force requirement and produces a moderate sound. This makes it suitable for various applications, whether you're a beginner or advanced user, and whether you're planning to use it at home or work. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors like the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.

In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is known for offering a silky and polished typing experience. These switches are exceptionally smooth, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. They provide an overall refined and sleek feel due to the materials used and possible factory lubing. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch is described as buttery and stepped. It offers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The stepped nature of the switch means that it has two stages, with some noticeable pre-travel and/or post-travel. This can give a more subtle tactile feedback compared to switches with a larger bump, such as hypertactile switches.

Considering all the available information, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch offer different subjective qualities. The Ink Box Pink is known for its lighter typing feel, higher-pitched clacks, silky typing experience, and polished feel. On the other hand, the Taro offers a cozy typing experience, snappy and medium-level tactility, buttery keystrokes, and a stepped feel. If you prefer a switch with a more distinct sound and lighter typing feel, the Ink Box Pink would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a switch with a more subtle tactile feedback and a smooth, effortless keystroke, the Taro would be a great option. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prioritize a lighter typing feel and a higher-pitched clack, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch would be a great choice for you. With a bottom out force of 60 grams and its smoothness, the Ink Box Pink offers a pleasant typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a cozy and subdued color scheme along with a snappy, medium-level of tactility and acute and crisp clacks, the Jwick Taro tactile switch would be the better option. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, the Taro provides a tactile feedback that is enjoyable to type on. In terms of sound, the Ink Box Pink has a clacky and high-pitched profile, while the Taro has a more neutral sound. And when it comes to feel, the Ink Box Pink is silky and polished, while the Taro is buttery and stepped. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style. Whether you prioritize smoothness and lighter feel or a tactile feedback and cozy typing experience, both switches offer unique features that can enhance your keyboarding experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Box Pink Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more

Jwick Taro Tactile

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn more