Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile are two popular options that cater to different preferences. The Ink Box Pink is a linear switch that offers a smooth and light typing experience, with a higher-pitched clack that some users find satisfying. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile is a tactile switch known for its smoothness, snappy tactile bump, and neutral sound signature. Those who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback may lean towards the WS Light Tactile, while the Ink Box Pink may appeal to those seeking a smoother and lighter typing feel. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile offer distinct sound profiles based on their compositions. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Pink provides a pointed and high-pitched sound that is described as clacky, while the polycarbonate top housing of the WS Light Tactile creates a sharper and crisper sound due to its stiffness. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting. In terms of bottom housing, the INK blend of the Ink Box Pink offers a similar high-pitched sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the WS Light Tactile produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer composition.
While both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, they also share some similarities in terms of their overall qualities. The INK blend top and bottom housing of the Ink Box Pink both contribute to a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, creating a consistent auditory experience. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the WS Light Tactile absorbs more sound due to its softer composition, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that is consistent with its overall design. Despite their differences, these switches both prioritize sound quality and offer satisfying typing experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
The decision between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Pink may appeal to those who enjoy a sharper and higher-pitched sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the WS Light Tactile offers a crisper sound that is enhanced by its translucency. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the WS Light Tactile provides a deeper and fuller sound that may be preferred by those looking for a more muted typing experience. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, it is clear that the WS Light Tactile is the lighter option. The Ink Box Pink has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight option. In contrast, the WS Light Tactile has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a lighter typing experience. Those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the slightly heavier Ink Box Pink, while those looking for a lighter touch may lean towards the WS Light Tactile. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences in terms of typing intensity and feedback.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, it is clear that the Ink Box Pink has a shorter distance of 3.6 mm compared to the WS Light Tactile's 4 mm travel distance. The difference between the two may seem small, but it can have a significant impact on the typing or gaming experience. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Ink Box Pink, while those who prefer a more traditional and deeper key press may opt for the WS Light Tactile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile comes in at $4.20 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound signature, suitable for various purposes and preferences. The choice of board and keycaps can also influence the overall sound of the switches, so it's essential to consider these factors when determining the desired sound profile for your mechanical keyboard setup.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch is recognized for its silky and polished typing experience, offering smooth key travel and minimal resistance during key presses. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch is described as stepped and easy-to-press, providing a mild tactile bump with gentle resistance and requiring minimal force to activate. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback and typing experiences, catering to different preferences for typing feel.
Overall, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that appeal to different users. While the Ink Box Pink provides a clacky and high-pitched sound with a silky and polished typing feel, the WS Light Tactile offers a neutral sound profile with a stepped and easy-to-press typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, both switches can deliver satisfying results in a mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, you should consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and enjoy a clacky, high-pitched sound with a smooth and polished typing feel, the Ink Box Pink may be the preferred choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a neutral sound profile with a stepped, easy-to-press typing feel, the WS Light Tactile switch might be the better option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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