Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two switches stand out: the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Haimu Viola Tricolor. The Ink Box Pink is widely praised for its smoothness and lighter typing feel, making it a popular choice among those who prefer linear switches. Additionally, the higher-pitched clack of these switches adds a touch of uniqueness to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor offers a thuddy and punchy sound profile, providing a character-filled typing experience. These tactile switches offer a satisfying feedback without becoming overly tactile, striking a perfect balance. While these general descriptions give you a glimpse into the switches' characteristics, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and needs.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Box Pink Linear

Haimu Viola Tricolor Tactile

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

$6.60

$3.09 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Haimu Viola Tricolor differ significantly. The Ink Box Pink features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. In contrast, the Viola Tricolor utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The polycarbonate material is known for its stiffness, contributing to a clearer and more resonant sound. Moreover, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Overall, the top housings of these switches offer distinct sound qualities, with the Ink Box Pink providing a slightly softer and more rounded sound compared to the Viola Tricolor's crisper tone.

Moving on to the bottom housings, the Ink Box Pink and the Viola Tricolor again diverge in their material choices. The Ink Box Pink utilizes the same INK blend as its top housing, resulting in a pointed and high-pitched sound profile. Conversely, the Viola Tricolor employs a nylon bottom housing, which imparts a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon is known for its softness, allowing it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. This absorption leads to a duller and rounder sound profile. Therefore, when typing on the Ink Box Pink, users can expect a clacky and thin sound, while the Viola Tricolor will offer a deeper, fuller, and more muffled sound.

In summary, the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Haimu Viola Tricolor play a significant role in determining their sound profiles. The Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend top and bottom housings result in a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, creating a clacky typing experience. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, while its nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound. Although there are differences in the sound characteristics, both switches aim to provide satisfying and enjoyable typing experiences, albeit with varying nuances.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, one noticeable difference is in their actuation forces. The Gateron Ink Box Pink has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the release of the Viola Tricolor is unknown. However, a similarity is that both switches have a medium actuation force, making them suitable for individuals who prefer a relatively lighter touch. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a distinction. The Gateron Ink Box Pink has a bottom out force of 60 grams, whereas the Haimu Viola Tricolor has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it slightly heavier. This means that individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience might opt for the Viola Tricolor due to its heavier force. Overall, the weights of these switches should be considered based on personal preference and specific typing or gaming needs.

Travel distance

The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch have slightly different travel distances. The Ink Box Pink has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Viola Tricolor has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers who value faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, the Ink Box Pink with its slightly shorter travel distance may be a better choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more substantial and deeper key press, the Viola Tricolor with its slightly longer travel distance might be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound. Pressing these switches results in a sharp and snappy sound, with a crisp and bright tone. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound profile. This switch produces a deeper and richer sound during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. If you prefer a sharper and crisper sound, the Ink Box Pink would be a better choice, while those who enjoy a more bass-heavy and mellow tone may prefer the Viola Tricolor.

In terms of feel, the Ink Box Pink provides a silky and polished typing experience. This switch is exceptionally smooth, minimizing resistance and allowing for smooth key travel. The polished finish adds to the sleekness of the typing feel, reducing friction and enhancing the overall smoothness. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor offers an accented and invigorating tactile experience. It provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or too subtle. With moderate to firm actuation force, this switch offers a snappy and reactive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation. Depending on your preference for a smoother and refined feel or a more tactile experience, you can choose between the Ink Box Pink and the Viola Tricolor.

Considering all the available information, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Box Pink provides a clacky and high-pitched sound with a silky and polished feel, while the Viola Tricolor offers a bassy and low-pitched sound with an accented and invigorating feel. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a sharper sound and a smoother typing experience, the Ink Box Pink is a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a deeper sound with more tactility, the Viola Tricolor would be a better fit. It's important to consider personal preferences and the desired typing experience when selecting between these two switches.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and lighter typing feel with a higher-pitched clacky sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. These switches are known for their beautiful translucent appearance and smooth typing experience. However, if you prefer a tactile switch with a thuddy and punchy sound profile, along with a pronounced tactility that is not overwhelming, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch would be the better option. These switches strike a perfect balance between feedback and actuation force, providing an invigorating and immersive typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Box Pink Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more

Haimu Viola Tricolor Tactile

$6.60

$3.09 per 10

Learn more