Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and Gazzew U4Tx RGB offer distinct experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The Ink Box Pink, a linear switch, is celebrated for its smooth and polished feel, providing a lighter typing experience that many users appreciate. Its higher-pitched clack sound brings a unique auditory character that can enhance the overall typing satisfaction for those who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic feedback. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB stands out as a tactile switch, renowned for its rich "thock" sound upon bottoming out, combined with a quiet top-out. This switch features a sharp tactile bump, delivering a luxurious typing experience that some users find more engaging and rewarding. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a smooth, light touch or the tactile sensation accompanied by a distinctive acoustic profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Box Pink Linear

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

$6.50 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB, significant differences emerge in their sound profiles and composition. The Gateron Ink Box Pink utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housings, known for producing a pointed and high-pitched sound, which users often describe as clacky and satisfying. This sound characteristic is primarily attributed to the hardness and rigidity of the material, which contributes to the clarity of high-frequency tones when a key is activated. Conversely, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB features a proprietary blend referred to as "boba plastic." This material is softer and delivers a richer, deeper sound profile. The softer nature of the boba plastic allows for a rounder and less harsh sound when keys are pressed, showcasing the significant influence that the housing material has on the overall acoustics of the switch.

The differences in the bottom housing materials further amplify these contrasting acoustic results. With the Gateron Ink Box Pink, the INK blend creates a consistently high-pitched sound, carrying through both the actuation and the bottom-out phases. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB's boba plastic bottom housing contributes to a fuller sound, enhancing the overall experience during bottom-out while softening the harshness that can sometimes accompany key presses. This divergence means that users of the Gateron Ink Box Pink will experience a more bright and pronounced auditory feedback, while those with the U4Tx RGB will enjoy a lush and rounded sound. Therefore, the choice of housing materials does not solely impact sound; it distinctly shapes the tactile experience of each switch.

Despite these differences, users seeking specific sound profiles and tactile feedback will find that they can achieve similar results by understanding how the materials influence each phase of a key press. While the Ink Box Pink excels in creating a sharper and livelier sound signature, the U4Tx RGB’s softer construction ensures a smoother auditory experience. For individuals who prefer a more balanced approach, selecting one switch over the other could still yield an enjoyable typing experience, albeit with differing nuances in sound quality. Ultimately, it’s the interplay of housing materials that determines the pleasure of the keystroke, guiding users in finding their ideal switch based on personal preferences in sound and feel.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch with the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces and bottom out forces. The Ink Box Pink features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a relatively medium force switch that can accommodate both typing and gaming for extended periods comfortably. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB's actuation force is unspecified, but its bottom out force is higher at 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This indicates that, while the actuation force for the U4Tx is unknown, users may experience a heftier feel when bottoming out compared to the Ink Box Pink. Thus, the Ink Box Pink is the lighter option overall, which may appeal to those who favor a less strenuous typing experience, while the U4Tx RGB caters to those who appreciate a stronger, more substantial feel.

Travel distance

The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch both feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them equal in this respect. Since the travel distance is the same for both switches, users can expect a similar tactile experience when pressing down on the keys. Whether using the Ink Box Pink or the U4Tx RGB, the consistent travel distance ensures that the depth of each keystroke feels identical, which can be beneficial for those looking for uniformity in their typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches are characterized by their high-pitched, clacky noise, producing a sharp and percussive sound that can be described as crisp and bright. This auditory profile appeals to those who enjoy a more vibrant sound while typing, making their presence known with an energetic tone. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches provide a sound profile that blends the deep "thock" associated with bottoming out and a quieter topping out experience. This combination results in a refined sound that leans towards a more muted yet rich auditory feedback. While both switches offer distinct sound experiences, the choice hinges on personal preference for either a higher-pitched clackiness or the deep thock associated with tactile feedback.

When considering the feel of each switch, the Ink Box Pink excels in providing a silky and polished typing experience. This smoothness is the result of careful engineering and materials, minimizing resistance during key presses for a fluid and effortless typing experience. Users can expect a reduced friction that enhances overall key travel, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize comfort and ease of use. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB switches offer a sharp tactile bump which is designed to provide noticeable feedback during typing. Although specific details about the overall smoothness or tactile distinction compared to the Ink Box Pink aren't available, the presence of a tactile bump implies a different typing sensation, focusing on the tactile experience rather than sheer smoothness.

In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switches and Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switches each offer unique auditory and tactile experiences tailored to varying preferences. The former provides a crisp sound with a fluid feel, making it perfect for those who enjoy a lightweight touch and vibrant auditory feedback. In contrast, the latter combines a deep thock during bottoming out with a sharp tactile bump, appealing to users who appreciate a more pronounced feedback during their typing sessions. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you value the smooth, high-pitched clarity of the Ink Box Pink or the tactile depth and muted sound of the U4Tx RGB.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch largely depends on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile. If you appreciate a lighter typing feel, enjoy a smoother and polished experience, and prefer a high-pitched and clacky sound, the Ink Box Pink could be the ideal choice for you. Its 60-gram bottom out force offers a comfortable and more forgiving press that is perfect for those who favor rapid typing or gaming. Conversely, if you prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback and a richer sound profile, the U4Tx RGB’s sharper tactile bump and medium-heavy 65-gram force are more aligned with a luxurious typing experience. The deep "thock" sound when bottoming out may enhance your satisfaction, especially if you enjoy a more substantial feel during key presses. In essence, choose the Ink Box Pink for a silky, lighter typing experience that emphasizes speed and clarity, while the U4Tx RGB is your go-to for a tactile and refined typing atmosphere with deeper auditory feedback. Ultimately, the best switch for you hinges on whether you value smoothness and lightness over tactile feedback and the depth of sound.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Box Pink Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more