Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introduction:
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options to choose from, each offering a unique typing experience. In this comparison, we will be diving into two popular options: the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Gazzew U4Tx. The Ink Box Pink is a linear switch, known for its smoothness and lighter typing feel. On the other hand, the U4Tx is a tactile switch that combines the best of both worlds, offering a refined sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump. While these descriptions provide a general sense of what each switch has to offer, let's delve deeper to help you make the best decision for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Gazzew U4Tx differ in their housing materials, resulting in contrasting sound profiles. The Ink Box Pink features a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. This clacky sound is satisfying and not overly sharp. On the other hand, the U4Tx utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, sometimes called "boba plastic," which delivers a rich and deep sound. The softness of the Gazzew blend contributes to the U4Tx's unique sound profile.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the Ink Box Pink and the U4Tx are distinct in their sound characteristics. The INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Pink, like its top housing, creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. In contrast, the Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4Tx, referred to as "boba plastic," provides a softer feel and results in a rich and deep sound. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, elevating the overall typing experience of each switch.
Although the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Gazzew U4Tx differ, they both offer unique advantages for keyboard enthusiasts. The Ink Box Pink's top and bottom housings, made from the proprietary INK blend, deliver a consistently clacky sound throughout typing. Likewise, the U4Tx's top and bottom housings, featuring the Gazzew blend, ensure a rich and deep sound profile due to the softness of the plastic. While distinct, both switches provide a pleasing and satisfying typing experience, catering to individual preferences and offering a variety of sound options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Gateron Ink Box Pink has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which can be considered medium in terms of weight. On the other hand, the actuation force of the Gazzew U4Tx switch is unavailable. However, its bottom out force is slightly heavier at 65 grams, making it medium-heavy.
For those looking for a lighter typing experience, the Gateron Ink Box Pink may be preferable. With its lower actuation and bottom out forces, it allows for longer periods of typing without causing fatigue. This makes it ideal for extended work sessions or intense gaming marathons. However, if a user prefers a more substantial typing feel and enjoys a stronger push, then the Gazzew U4Tx switch would be a better choice. Its slightly higher bottom out force gives a more tactile and weighted experience while typing.
It's worth noting that the actuation force of the Gazzew U4Tx switch is not specified, so it's uncertain whether it is lighter or heavier than the Gateron Ink Box Pink. However, since the Gazzew U4Tx has a higher bottom out force, it is safe to assume that the overall feel may be heavier in comparison. Ultimately, the decision between these switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of the distance you feel when you press down on a key. Whether you choose the Ink Box Pink or the U4Tx, you can expect a consistent travel distance of 3.6 mm, ensuring a smooth and satisfying typing 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 Gazzew U4Tx comes in at $6.50 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 switches offer a clacky and high-pitched sound. This means that they produce a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, characterized by crispness and brightness. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switches provide a bassy and muted sound profile. These switches offer a deeper and richer sound during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones, while also minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is affected by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps. Overall, if you prefer a sharper and crisper sound, the Ink Box Pink switches are a better choice, while if you prefer a deeper and quieter sound, the U4Tx switches are ideal.
Moving onto the feel of the switches, the Ink Box Pink switches are described as silky and polished. "Silky" refers to an exceptionally smooth typing experience, enhancing overall smoothness and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, the "polished" finish of these switches results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the U4Tx switches offer a sharp tactile feel. These switches are known for their high feedback intensity, providing a strong and crisp tactile bump with each keypress. If you prefer a smooth and refined typing experience, the Ink Box Pink switches are the way to go. However, if you prefer a more pronounced and intense tactile feedback, the U4Tx switches are a better choice.
Considering all the available information, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switches and Gazzew U4Tx tactile switches offer unique subjective qualities. The Ink Box Pink switches provide a clacky and high-pitched sound, along with a silky and polished feel for a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the U4Tx switches offer a bassy and muted sound profile, coupled with a sharp tactile feel that provides a strong and crisp bump during each keypress. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preferences for sound and feel. If you prefer a sharper and crisper sound with a smooth typing experience, go for the Ink Box Pink switches. Conversely, if you prefer a deeper and quieter sound with a more pronounced tactile feedback, opt for the U4Tx switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a smoother typing experience with a lighter feel and a higher-pitched clack sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a more refined sound profile with a deeper, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a quiet, muted sound when topping out, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch is the better choice. Additionally, if you value a switch with a sharp and intense tactile bump for enhanced feedback during typing, the U4Tx is the way to go. Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Gazzew U4Tx depends on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and level of tactile feedback.
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