Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Wuque Studio WS Red

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Wuque Studio WS Red. The Ink Box Pink switch is best known for its smoothness and light typing feel, offering a comfortable and seamless typing experience. Additionally, users will appreciate the higher-pitched clack that adds a unique touch to their keyboard. On the other hand, the WS Red switch stands out with its 22mm double-stage spring, providing a bouncy and responsive typing experience. This switch also boasts a classic material blend, resulting in a familiar sound signature. While the Ink Box Pink offers a lighter actuation force, the WS Red delivers a heavier touch with each keystroke, resulting in a satisfying and substantial typing feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Box Pink Linear

Wuque Studio WS Red Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

$3.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches exhibit noticeable differences in sound profile. The Ink Box Pink utilizes a proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. This clacky sound is satisfying for many users, offering a thin and higher-pitched auditory experience. In contrast, the WS Red features a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder overall sound profile.

Likewise, the bottom housings of these switches also contribute to their respective sound profiles. The Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend bottom housing shares similar characteristics with its top housing, generating a pointed and high-pitched sound when pressing down on the switch. This consistency in sound profile contributes to a cohesive typing experience. Conversely, the WS Red incorporates a nylon bottom housing that adds to the switch's overall sound when bottoming out. The relatively softer plastic of nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a deeper and fuller auditory response.

While there are distinctions between the top and bottom housing materials of these switches, it is important to note that both aspects play a role in the final sound experience. The bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, directly impacting the sound produced when a key is fully pressed down. Conversely, the top housing's contribution becomes more apparent when releasing a key, as it affects the sound emitted during the key's ascent. Despite the variations in materials, both the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Wuque Studio WS Red aim to provide pleasing and satisfying typing experiences, albeit with different sound characteristics.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, we can see some similarities and differences. Firstly, the Ink Box Pink has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the WS Red's actuation force is unavailable. However, both switches have a medium level of actuation force. The bottom out force of the Ink Box Pink is 60 grams, which is slightly lighter than the WS Red's 67 grams, making the WS Red switch slightly heavier.

Considering the weight of the switches, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Ink Box Pink as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, for individuals who prefer a more robust and substantial typing feel, the WS Red switch may be a better option due to its slightly heavier bottom out force.

While the actuation force of the WS Red is unavailable, it is worth mentioning that both switches fall under the medium force category. Therefore, if a user is looking for a switch with similar actuation results, either switch could potentially provide a comparable experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether an individual prefers a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force for their typing needs.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, we can see that the Ink Box Pink has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Red has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Ink Box Pink offers a shorter travel distance, which may be favored by gamers looking for faster response times. The shorter travel distance allows for quicker keystrokes, leading to improved gaming performance. On the other hand, some users may find the shorter travel distance to feel too abrupt. In contrast, the WS Red switch provides a slightly longer travel distance, offering a more substantial and satisfying feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound qualities of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, the Ink Box Pink is known for its higher-pitched clack when typing. This produces a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the sound signature of the WS Red is not specified, so we do not have detailed information about it. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

Turning to the feel of the switches, the Ink Box Pink is described as silky and polished. These qualities contribute to an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing the keys. The smooth and refined finish of the switch, whether due to the materials used or factory lubing, results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, there is no information available about the feel of the Wuque Studio WS Red switch.

In conclusion, both switches have their distinct subjective qualities. The Gateron Ink Box Pink offers a lighter typing feel, a higher-pitched clack sound when typing, and a silky and polished feel for a smooth and refined experience. On the other hand, limited information is available about the subjective qualities of the Wuque Studio WS Red switch. If you are looking for a similar typing experience to the Ink Box Pink, it is recommended to choose switches that provide a lighter feel, higher-pitched sound, and a smooth and refined finish.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when making a decision between the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences for typing feel and sound.

If you prefer a lighter typing feel and a higher-pitched clack sound, the Ink Box Pink is the switch for you. With its medium bottom out force of 60 grams, it offers a smooth and lighter typing experience compared to other switches. The Ink Box Pink is best suited for those who enjoy a crisp and bright sound when typing.

On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a heavier actuation force, the WS Red switch is a great choice. With its medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams and a 22mm double-stage spring, it delivers a satisfying and substantial typing feel. While there is no specific description of the WS Red's sound, you can expect a familiar sound signature due to its classic material blend.

Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference. Consider the sound and feel descriptions provided for each switch and decide which characteristics align with your typing preferences. By taking these factors into account, you can choose the switch that will enhance your overall typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Box Pink Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more

Wuque Studio WS Red Linear

$3.50 per 10

Learn more