Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Wuque Studio WS Morandi
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that offer unique qualities are the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches. The Ink Box Pink switches are celebrated for their beautiful translucent design and smooth typing experience. These linear switches have a lighter feel compared to others in its category and produce a higher-pitched clack, which can add a touch of excitement to your typing. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switches combine innovation with stunning visual aesthetics. These linear switches feature a unique light diffusing column that enhances RGB effects, creating a mesmerizing visual experience. With a distinct dry and airy smoothness, courtesy of the UPE stem, the WS Morandi switches provide a different tactile feel compared to factory-lubed switches. The slightly shortened total travel and long pole design strike a perfect balance between form and function. While the Morandis offer a slightly more muted sound profile, the Ink Box Pink exude a higher-pitched click. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi, we find notable differences in their sound profiles. The Ink Box Pink utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housings. This blend creates a thin, higher-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the WS Morandi features POM (Polyoxymethylene) housings for both the top and bottom. POM housings produce a deeper and relatively more muted sound. Therefore, while both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, the Ink Box Pink will have a more pointed and high-pitched sound, while the WS Morandi will offer a deeper and softer tone.
When it comes to feeling the qualities of the housing materials, there is a shared similarity between the Ink Box Pink and the WS Morandi. Both switches have their unique housing materials split between the bottom and top of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing's material will have a more pronounced impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. This means that both switches will provide a distinct tactile feedback on keypresses, influenced by the materials used in their bottom housings. However, they will diverge in the sound produced when releasing a key, as the top housing material becomes more influential.
In summary, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi differ in their housing materials and resulting sound profiles. The Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend offers a clacky and higher-pitched sound, while the WS Morandi's POM housing creates a deeper and relatively more muted sound. Despite their differences, both switches share the characteristic of having their housing materials affecting the keypress experience in distinct ways. Pressing down on the switches will highlight the qualities of their respective bottom housing materials, while releasing a key will emphasize the influence of the top housing material for each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. Both switches have a bottom out force of 60 grams, which falls within the medium range. However, the actuation force of the Ink Box Pink is specified at 50 grams, whereas the actuation force of the WS Morandi is not provided.
The actuation force is the amount of force required to trigger a keystroke. In the case of the Ink Box Pink, it has a relatively lighter actuation force compared to the bottom out force, providing a smoother and more responsive key press. On the other hand, since the actuation force of the WS Morandi is unknown, it is difficult to determine if it aligns with the lighter or heavier side of the spectrum.
Considering weight, lighter switches like the Ink Box Pink are favored by some users as they allow for longer typing sessions, making them suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. On the contrary, individuals seeking a more substantial and stronger pushing feel during typing may prefer switches with heavier forces.
In summary, while the bottom out force of both the Ink Box Pink and WS Morandi switches is the same, the actuation force of the Ink Box Pink is lighter, offering a responsive typing experience. Without information on the actuation force of the WS Morandi, it is challenging to provide a direct comparison. However, based on the given data, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Ink Box Pink, while those who desire a heavier push feel may choose options that align with their preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are gaining popularity in the market. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the WS Morandi would be the better option. However, some people may find shorter travel distances to feel abrupt. If you prefer a more satisfying depth when pressing down on a key, the Ink Box Pink with its slightly longer travel distance would be a suitable choice. Overall, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, but cater to different preferences and needs.
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 Morandi has an MSRP of $4.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Morandi for $3.90.
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 switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile. It produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, giving a crisp and percussive feel. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switch offers a more subdued and low-pitched sound. It has a dampened sound when pressed, with a more mellow and bass-heavy tone. If you prefer a sharper and crisper sound, the Ink Box Pink would be a better choice, while the WS Morandi provides a more subtle and bass-oriented sound experience.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch is described as silky and polished. It offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. With its refined finish and reduced friction, this switch provides a sleek and seamless typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Morandi is described as buttery and creamy. It offers a fluid and effortless keystroke experience, giving a uniform typing sensation. Typing on the Morandi switch feels like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease, as each keystroke melts effortlessly into the switch. Both switches provide a smooth typing experience, but the Ink Box Pink offers a polished and refined feel, while the WS Morandi gives a more buttery and creamy sensation.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Box Pink has a clacky and high-pitched sound with a silky and polished feel, providing a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switch has a more subdued and low-pitched sound with a buttery and creamy feel, offering a smoother and more uniform typing sensation. Depending on personal preferences, one can choose the switch that aligns with their desired sound and typing experience. If you prefer a sharper sound and a polished feel, the Ink Box Pink is the way to go. However, if you prefer a more mellow sound and a buttery feel, the WS Morandi will provide similar results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-weight linear switch with a lighter typing feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink would be a great choice. These switches are smooth and offer a higher-pitched clack when pressed, which can provide a crisp and bright sound profile. On the other hand, if you are seeking a visually appealing switch with a unique feel, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi is the way to go. These switches feature a light-diffusing column that enhances RGB visuals, and their UPE stem provides a dry, airy, and wispy smoothness. With a slightly muted sound profile and a creamy or buttery typing experience, the WS Morandi strikes a perfect balance between form and function. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your preference for sound and feel.
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