Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Gateron Type S both offer unique characteristics to enhance your typing experience. The Ink Box Pink stands out for its lighter typing feel and higher-pitched clack, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a smoother, more polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S boasts a weightier keystroke with a balanced sound signature, perfect for users who prefer a more neutral and subdued typing experience. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
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
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Gateron Type S switches offer distinct sound profiles due to their different compositions. The Ink Box Pink features a proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing that produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound when typing, described as clacky. In contrast, the Type S utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is rounder and duller in comparison to the Ink Box Pink. While the Ink Box Pink delivers a more sharp and thin sound, the Type S offers a softer and more absorbent typing experience.
Despite their differences in sound profile, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Gateron Type S switches share a commonality in their top housing materials. Both switches feature nylon top housings that contribute to the overall sound produced when typing. However, where they differ is in their bottom housing materials - the Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend offers a higher-pitched sound, while the Type S's nylon bottom housing creates a fuller and deeper sound. This distinction in the bottom housing materials results in a unique typing experience for each switch, with the bottom-out sound and feel being influenced by the bottom housing material.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Gateron Type S switches play a crucial role in determining the sound profile and overall typing experience. While the Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend offers a sharper and more clacky sound, the Type S's nylon housing provides a deeper and fuller sound. The differences in their top and bottom housing materials result in distinct typing experiences, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key. Overall, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences in typing sound and feel.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch are both worth considering when choosing a keyboard switch. The Ink Box Pink has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Type S has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. In comparison, the Type S is slightly heavier than the Ink Box Pink. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Ink Box Pink may be more suitable, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. This could be beneficial for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. However, for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Type S may be the better option, as it offers a heavier actuation and bottom out force. Both switches provide a medium to medium-heavy typing experience, so users can expect similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, it is evident that the Ink Box Pink has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the Type S which has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of responsiveness, the shorter travel distance of the Ink Box Pink may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Type S may provide a more satisfying depth to the key press for those who prefer it. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and how it affects the typing or gaming experience.
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 Type S comes in at $4.70 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 linear switch is known for its high-pitched and clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S linear switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound, appealing to those who prefer a quieter typing experience. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference, whether you enjoy the sharpness of the Ink Box Pink or the quieter nature of the Type S.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is praised for its silky and polished typing experience, offering minimal resistance and a smooth key travel. This results in a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience for users. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available about the typing feel of the Gateron Type S linear switch. However, based on its weightier 65g bottom-out and contemporary factory lubing techniques, it can be inferred that the Type S may offer a more tactile and satisfying typing feel compared to the Ink Box Pink.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Ink Box Pink provides a high-pitched and clacky sound with a silky and polished feel, the Type S offers a more neutral and subdued sound with potentially a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style. Whichever switch you choose, you can expect a high-quality and enjoyable typing experience with Gateron switches.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter typing feel with a medium bottom out force and a higher-pitched, clacky sound, the Ink Box Pink may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a weightier keystroke with a slightly heavier bottom out force and a more neutral, subdued sound, the Type S might be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch. Consider these factors carefully to make the best choice for your typing needs.
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