Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the HMX Swift mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches but offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Ink Box Pink is praised for its smoothness and lighter typing feel, resulting in a high-pitched clack that some find satisfying. On the other hand, the HMX Swift stands out for its deeper sound profile and silky smoothness, thanks to its full nylon housings and delicate 42g actuation force. Both switches are categorized as 'Clacky,' but the Swift offers an 'Easy-to-press,' 'Feathery,' 'Bouncy,' and 'Creamy' typing experience, which might appeal to those seeking a softer touch. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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 extended spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Box Pink and the HMX Swift have different housing materials for both the top and bottom of the switch. The Ink Box Pink features a proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing, known for its relatively high-pitched and clacky sound profile. In contrast, the Swift uses nylon for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softness of the material absorbing more sound. While the Ink Box Pink offers a more pointed and higher-pitched sound, the Swift provides a rounder and duller sound experience.
Despite their differences in housing materials, both the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the HMX Swift aim to enhance the typing experience with unique sound profiles. The INK blend used in the Ink Box Pink delivers a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound that is described as clacky, making it ideal for those who prefer a more distinct sound while typing. On the other hand, the nylon housing of the Swift creates a deeper and fuller sound that appeals to users looking for a more muted and rounded typing experience. Regardless of the material used, both switches are designed to provide an auditory feedback that enhances the overall typing feel.
In conclusion, the choice between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the HMX Swift ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. The INK blend top and bottom housing of the Ink Box Pink offers a more pointed and high-pitched sound, perfect for those who enjoy a clacky typing experience. Meanwhile, the nylon top and bottom housing of the Swift provides a deeper and fuller sound that may appeal to users seeking a softer and more rounded typing feel. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can find the right fit for their individual typing style.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it is evident that they differ in weight. The Ink Box Pink has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is considered medium. On the other hand, the Swift is lighter with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Swift may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the heavier actuation force of the Ink Box Pink may cater to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.9 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Ink Box Pink being the shorter option and the Swift being the longer option. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Ink Box Pink for faster response times, while those seeking a more substantial key press may opt for the slightly longer travel distance of the HMX Swift. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for the amount of key press depth 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 Swift has an MSRP of $3.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift for $3.45.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch is known for its high-pitched and clacky sound that produces a sharp and crisp noise when pressed. On the other hand, the HMX Swift switch is also described as clacky, offering a sharp and snappy sound. However, the Swift's sound profile is deeper due to its full nylon housings. Both switches provide different sound experiences, with the Ink Box Pink being brighter and the Swift having a more subdued tone.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch is praised for its silky and polished typing experience, offering an exceptionally smooth and refined feel. On the other hand, the HMX Swift switch provides an easy-to-press sensation with feathery and bouncy qualities, making key presses effortless and comfortable. Both switches aim to minimize finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, with the Ink Box Pink focusing on smoothness and the Swift emphasizing light actuation force and responsiveness.
Overall, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and HMX Swift switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Ink Box Pink provides a lighter typing feel and higher-pitched sound, the Swift stands out with its deeper sound profile and easy-to-press sensation. Depending on your preference for sound and typing experience, both switches can provide a satisfying and enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing feel and sound profile you are seeking in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, consider your preference for typing feel and sound. If you desire a smoother and lighter typing experience with a higher-pitched clack sound, the Ink Box Pink may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a silky smooth and easy-to-press typing feel with a deep, clacky sound profile, the HMX Swift might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on personal preference and what type of typing experience you value most. Make sure to test out both switches before making a final decision to ensure they align with your typing style and preferences.
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