Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, there are a few factors to consider, including the level of noise, typing feel, and overall experience. Two notable options that stand out are the Gateron Ink Box Pink, a linear switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile, a tactile switch.
The Ink Box Pink switches are known for their smoothness and lighter typing feel. They offer a unique clack with a higher-pitched sound, which can be satisfying for those who prefer a distinct auditory feedback while typing. With a classification of 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', and 'Polished', these switches are an excellent choice for individuals who value a smooth and responsive typing experience.
On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switches by Wuque Studio are specifically designed for office and work environments. These switches strike a delicate balance between tactility and noise reduction. Featuring ingenious stem railings with small cutouts, they effectively minimize switch sound while delivering a crisp bottom-out and responsive return. Categorized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Muted', these switches offer a quiet yet satisfying typing experience, making them ideal for those who appreciate tranquility during their work.
However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you. Each switch has its unique characteristics and benefits, so it's important to consider your personal preferences and requirements before making a final decision.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches offer distinct differences in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback. The Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend top housing is known for its pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, which is often described as clacky. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile's nylon top housing generates a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
The bottom housings of these switches also differ in their impact on sound and feel. The Ink Box Pink's INK blend bottom housing shares the same high-pitched and clacky sound profile as its top housing. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile's nylon bottom housing contributes to the overall deeper and fuller sound profile of the switch. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, whereas the top housing primarily affects the sound produced when releasing a key.
While there are clear distinctions between the housing materials of these switches, both offer unique sound profiles that can cater to different preferences. The Ink Box Pink, with its pointy and higher-pitched sound, may appeal to those who enjoy a more distinctive and clacky typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile's nylon housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a softer and more rounded typing sound. Ultimately, whether similar or different, the housing materials of these switches contribute to enhancing the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, there are a few key differences to note. The Ink Box Pink features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which falls into the medium range. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile's actuation force is unavailable grams, making it unknown, while its bottom out force measures 63.5 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gateron Ink Box Pink would be more suitable as it has a slightly lower actuation force compared to the WS Silent Tactile. This lighter force allows for longer typing sessions, making it an excellent choice for individuals who bring their keyboards to work or engage in extended gaming sessions.
However, some individuals prefer a more substantial push feel when typing, and for them, a heavier actuation force is desired. In this case, the WS Silent Tactile would be a better option as it has a potentially heavier actuation force, although the specific weight is unknown. With its bottom out force of 63.5 grams, it provides a satisfying tactile experience for those seeking a more substantial typing sensation.
Although the actuation forces of these two switches may differ, individuals seeking similar results in terms of typing experience can still achieve them. By adjusting their typing technique accordingly, users can adjust to either switch's actuation force and experience a comparable outcome. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience, whether it be a lighter or heavier feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance and are suitable for those seeking faster response times. However, the Ink Box Pink has a slightly longer travel distance, providing a touch more depth to the keystrokes. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile offers a slightly shorter travel distance, resulting in a more immediate and responsive feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences and whether a slightly deeper or quicker keystroke is desired.
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 Silent 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound. This means that when you press the keys, you will experience a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch offers a more neutral and muted sound profile. It has a moderate sound level and produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. This makes it suitable for both home and work environments, providing a typing experience that minimizes noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by your keyboard and keycap choices.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch is described as silky and polished. This means that it offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimized resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The switch has a refined finish that enhances smoothness and reduces friction during key travel. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch is described as accented, invigorating, and mild. It provides a medium level of tactility, offering a prominent amount of feedback without overwhelming or subtle characteristics. The switch has a snappy and reactive feel with a moderate to firm actuation force, creating an immersive typing sensation. It also offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics, making it approachable to most users.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches have different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Box Pink produces a clacky and high-pitched sound, while the WS Silent Tactile offers a neutral and muted sound profile. When it comes to feel, the Ink Box Pink is silky and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience, while the WS Silent Tactile is accented, invigorating, and mild, offering a medium level of tactility and a snappy feel. Depending on your preferences and typing environment, you can choose between the two switches to achieve the desired sound and feel. However, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with a smoother feel, the WS Silent Tactile switch may be a better option for you, while the Ink Box Pink switch is ideal for those who prefer a sharper sound and a lighter typing feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a lighter typing feel and a higher-pitched clack sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers a medium level of tactility without compromising on noise reduction, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch would be the perfect fit. The WS Silent Tactile is crafted with precision, featuring stem railings with small cutouts to minimize switch sound while still delivering a satisfyingly crisp bottom-out and responsive return. It is also worth noting that the WS Silent Tactile offers a silent profile without the usual padded feel found in most silent switches, creating a unique blend of tranquility and tactility. Overall, both switches have their strengths, and it ultimately comes down to your preference in terms of typing experience, sound, and overall feel.
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