Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the HMX Xinhai mechanical keyboard switches, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Ink Box Pink is known for its smooth and light typing feel, along with a higher-pitched clack sound, making it ideal for those who appreciate a polished and silky typing experience. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch stands out with its unique PA12 top housing for softer acoustics and a POM stem for a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance, appealing to individuals seeking a blend of sophistication and precise performance. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the HMX Xinhai, one can see distinct differences in the sound profiles they produce. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Pink provides a satisfying clacky sound that is described as thin and higher-pitched. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Xinhai creates a sharper, crisper sound due to its stiffer nature. While both materials offer a high-pitched sound profile, the INK blend leans towards a more rounded tone compared to the clearer sound produced by polycarbonate.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the INK blend in the Ink Box Pink offers a similar high-pitched sound profile as its top housing. This results in a consistent and cohesive typing experience with a clacky undertone. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the Xinhai provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a more rounded and duller sound. The difference in material between the two switches' bottom housings contributes to their unique sound characteristics, with the Ink Box Pink leaning towards a thinner and crisper sound, while the Xinhai offers a deeper and more absorbing sound quality.
When considering the overall typing experience of these switches, it is clear that the housing materials play a significant role in the sound produced. While the INK blend of the Ink Box Pink offers a consistent and clacky sound throughout, the Xinhai's combination of polycarbonate and nylon results in a more varied sound profile between the top and bottom housing. Regardless of these differences, both switches provide satisfying typing experiences with distinct sound characteristics that will appeal to different preferences.
Weight
Comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch reveals some interesting differences. The Ink Box Pink has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams, compared to the Xinhai's lighter 37 grams. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Ink Box Pink is also heavier at 60 grams, while the Xinhai requires only 45 grams to bottom out. This means that the Ink Box Pink provides a more substantial typing experience with a slightly heavier touch, while the Xinhai offers a lighter and gentler keystroke. In terms of weight preference, those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Xinhai, while those who enjoy a more robust feel may opt for the Ink Box Pink. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is evident that the Xinhai has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Ink Box Pink has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. While the Xinhai may offer a slightly quicker keypress due to its shorter travel distance, some users may prefer the slightly deeper feel of the Ink Box Pink. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for the level of keypress depth and responsiveness 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 HMX Xinhai has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai for $2.99.
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, both the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the HMX Xinhai switches are described as clacky, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. However, the Ink Box Pink has a higher-pitched tone compared to the Xinhai. If you prefer a crisper and brighter sound, the Ink Box Pink may be more to your liking. On the other hand, the Xinhai offers a softer acoustics profile due to its unique PA12 top housing, which may appeal to those seeking a more subtle and refined sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink is known for its silky and polished typing experience, offering minimal resistance and a smooth key travel. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai is described as bouncy and creamy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation with a smooth and buttery typing experience. Both switches aim to enhance typing comfort, but the choice between them would depend on whether you prefer a more polished and refined feel (Ink Box Pink) or a bouncy and creamy sensation (Xinhai).
In conclusion, while both the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the HMX Xinhai switches offer unique sound and feel characteristics, they cater to slightly different preferences. The Ink Box Pink is known for its higher-pitched and clacky sound with a silky and polished typing feel, while the Xinhai provides a softer acoustics profile and a bouncy, creamy typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on whether you prioritize sound characteristics or typing feel in your mechanical keyboard setup. However, rest assured that regardless of your choice, you can expect a high-quality and satisfying typing experience from either switch.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, consider the feel and sound preferences you have for your typing experience. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a smooth, polished typing feel with a high-pitched and clacky sound profile, the Gateron Ink Box Pink may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a bouncy and creamy typing feel with a clacky sound profile, the HMX Xinhai linear switch would be a better fit. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose based on what aligns best with your desired typing experience.
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