Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the SP-Star Yanyu. Both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences and typing experiences. The Ink Box Pink is renowned for its beautiful translucent design and lighter typing feel, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a smooth and polished typing experience. Furthermore, its higher-pitched clack adds a distinct flair to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch provides a more delicate typing experience, making it ideal for individuals who spend long hours typing. The Yanyu's material blend ensures a crisp sound profile, while its neutral and mild characteristics offer a subtle and feathery typing sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so that you can make an informed decision and choose the best switch that suits your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the SP-Star Yanyu differ in their composition but share similarities in the sound profiles they produce. The Ink Box Pink features a proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing, known for its pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. This results in a satisfying, clacky sound when typing. In contrast, the Yanyu utilizes a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top and bottom housing, which offers a pleasant sound profile that leans towards the brighter side without being overly sharp.
While the specific materials used in the top and bottom housings of both switches differ, they have a significant impact on the overall sound and feel of the switches. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing material plays a crucial role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel. In the case of the Ink Box Pink, the INK blend contributes to its characteristic clacky sound, while the Yanyu's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend brings a unique pleasantness to the bottom-out experience.
On the other hand, the top housing material influences the sound produced when releasing a key. Although the Ink Box Pink's INK blend and the Yanyu's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend may have different compositions, they both contribute to a higher-pitched sound that is not overly sharp. This similarity suggests that when letting go of a key, users can expect a similar sound profile from both switches.
In summary, the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the SP-Star Yanyu differ in their specific compositions, with the former utilizing the proprietary INK blend, while the latter combines Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend. However, both switches share similarities in their sound profiles, producing a relatively high-pitched sound that is not overly sharp. While the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound profile, albeit with subtle differences between the two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, we can see some notable differences. The Ink Box Pink requires an actuation force of 50 grams, while the actuation force for the Yanyu is unavailable. However, the bottom out force for the Ink Box Pink is 60 grams, slightly heavier than the Yanyu's 43 grams.
Considering weight, some users may prefer a lighter switch like the Yanyu, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing or extended gaming sessions without strain. The lighter actuation force of the Yanyu provides a lighter touch, making it easier on the fingers during prolonged use.
On the other hand, those who seek a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Ink Box Pink. With a heavier bottom out force, it provides a stronger push feel, giving a satisfying tactile feedback when typing. This can be ideal for users who prefer a more pronounced sensation while typing.
Overall, the Ink Box Pink provides a medium actuation force and a slightly heavier bottom out force, offering a balance between a light and heavy typing experience. Meanwhile, the Yanyu has a lighter and potentially unknown actuation force, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch. Whether one chooses the lighter or heavier option depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it is clear that they have different distances. The Ink Box Pink has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Yanyu has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the Ink Box Pink offers a shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers who value faster response times. On the other hand, the Yanyu's longer travel distance may be more suitable for individuals who prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness or depth.
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 SP-Star Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu for $5.40.
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 comparing the sound qualities of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the SP-Star Yanyu switches, the Ink Box Pink is known for producing a higher-pitched clack when pressed. This gives it a sharper and snappier sound profile, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, meaning it falls in the middle ground in terms of sound. It has a moderate sound profile and does not lean towards being particularly high-pitched or bassy. Additionally, the Yanyu switch is often described as producing a satisfying "thocky" sound, which is a deep and rich sound similar to a soft knock or thud. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, while the Ink Box Pink and Yanyu switches have different sound characteristics, the choice of board and keycaps can help achieve similar results if desired.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Ink Box Pink switch is known for its silky and polished feel. This means that it offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience with reduced resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The smooth and refined finish of the switch enhances the overall typing feel, resulting in a sleek experience. Similarly, the Yanyu switch is also described as having a polished feel, indicating a smooth and refined finish that contributes to a sleek typing experience. Additionally, the Yanyu switch offers a mild typing experience, which means it provides a gentle feel without any pronounced characteristics. It falls in a safe, middle-ground zone, making it approachable for most users. Furthermore, the Yanyu switch can be described as feathery, meaning it is exceptionally light to press and requires minimal exertion. This lightweight actuation force reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions. The Yanyu switch also has a subtle resistance but maintains a light typing feel, making it suitable for shared spaces. Thus, both the Ink Box Pink and Yanyu switches offer smooth and polished typing experiences, with the Yanyu switch also providing a mild and lightweight feel.
Considering all the available information, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and SP-Star Yanyu switches have distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Box Pink switch produces a higher-pitched clacky sound when pressed, while the Yanyu switch has a neutral sound profile with a satisfying thocky sound. In terms of feel, both switches offer a smooth and polished typing experience, but the Ink Box Pink is specifically described as silky, while the Yanyu is mild and feathery. However, it is important to note that individual preferences and the setup of the keyboard (such as the board and keycaps) can influence the perceived sound and feel of the switches. Therefore, if a particular quality is desired, such as a high-pitched sound or a feather-light feel, it is possible to achieve similar results by carefully selecting the keyboard components.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, you need to consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force, the Ink Box Pink with its 60 grams would be a good choice. However, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, the Yanyu with its 43 grams would be more suitable.
In terms of sound, the Ink Box Pink has a higher-pitched clack, which produces a crisp and bright sound. On the other hand, the Yanyu has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various settings and preferences. If you enjoy a sharper and more percussive sound, go for the Ink Box Pink. But if you prefer a deep and satisfying thocky sound, the Yanyu would be the better option.
When it comes to feel, the Ink Box Pink provides a silky and polished typing experience, offering smooth key travel and minimal resistance. On the other hand, the Yanyu has a mild and feathery feel, reducing finger fatigue and providing comfort for extended typing sessions. Both switches also share the polished characteristic, ensuring reduced friction and a sleek typing experience. If you prioritize a particularly smooth typing feel, the Ink Box Pink is your go-to. However, if you prefer a gentle and approachable typing experience, the Yanyu would be a great fit.
Ultimately, the best choice between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the SP-Star Yanyu depends on your personal preferences and priorities in terms of bottom out force, sound, and feel. Consider what factors are most important to you and align that with the characteristics of each switch. Whether you prioritize a medium or light bottom out force, prefer a higher-pitched clacky sound or a neutral thocky sound, or desire a silky or mild-feathery feel, make your decision based on what will enhance your overall typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
