Everglide Bamboo Green vs. Gateron Ink Box Black

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Everglide Bamboo Green and the Gateron Ink Box Black offer two distinct options to consider. The Bamboo Green switch is known for its clacky sound signature and crisp, sparkling tactility. With a categorization that includes terms like 'stepped', 'high-pitched', 'accented', 'sharp', 'resonant', and 'polished', this tactile switch provides a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black switch stands out for its smooth and creamy feel. The sound signature is likened to a spray paint can being shaken, with terms such as 'clacky', 'high-pitched', 'silky', and 'polished' being used to describe it. Both switches have their own merits, offering different tactile and auditory experiences. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision for your specific needs.

By the numbers

Everglide Bamboo Green Tactile

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

$9.67

$7.19 per 10

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Everglide Bamboo Green and the Gateron Ink Box Black differ in the materials used for their top and bottom switch housings. The Bamboo Green features a PBT top housing, while the Ink Box Black utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing. While both materials offer a relatively neutral sound profile, the Bamboo Green's PBT top housing is described as not being very crisp nor dull. In contrast, the INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Black is characterized as having a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, often described as clacky. Therefore, the difference in top housings would likely result in a variation in the sound when keys are released.

Similarly, the bottom housings of the Bamboo Green and the Ink Box Black also differ in material composition. The Bamboo Green's PBT bottom housing, like its top housing, offers a neutral sound profile that is not too crisp nor dull. Comparatively, the proprietary INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Black is described as having a thin and higher-pitched sound, also characterized as clacky. Therefore, the difference in bottom housings would likely influence the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down.

It is important to note that if the top and bottom housings are different for a given switch, the qualities brought by each housing material will be divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed, while the top housing will have more influence on the sound when a key is released. Thus, depending on the specific combination of top and bottom housings in the Bamboo Green and the Ink Box Black, similar results in terms of sound and feel may be achieved to some extent.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Bamboo Green tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, it becomes evident that there are notable differences between the two. The Bamboo Green switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams, whereas the Ink Box Black requires a slightly heavier 60 grams to trigger a keystroke. This means that users opting for the Bamboo Green switch will experience a more sensitive and lighter touch, making it ideal for those who prefer a nimble typing experience. On the other hand, the Bamboo Green switch has a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Ink Box Black boasts a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams. This indicates that the Ink Box Black provides a more substantial and heavy press, appealing to those who desire a more forceful keystroke sensation. It is worth mentioning that despite the differences in force, both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, offering a balance between durability and ease of use. Ultimately, the choice between the Everglide Bamboo Green and the Gateron Ink Box Black will depend on individual preferences and typing styles.

Travel distance

In comparing the travel distance of the Everglide Bamboo Green tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, it is evident that the Bamboo Green has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Ink Box Black has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This puts the Bamboo Green as the switch with the longer travel distance and the Ink Box Black as the switch with the shorter travel distance.

It is important to note that a travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered traditional, while 3.0 mm is deemed shallow. However, in recent times, shorter travel distances have gained popularity, particularly among gamers who value faster response times. Those seeking a more responsive typing experience may prefer the shorter travel distance offered by the Ink Box Black. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt and may prefer the additional depth provided by the Bamboo Green's longer travel distance.

Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer their own unique characteristics, and while the Bamboo Green provides a slightly longer travel distance, the Ink Box Black offers a shorter and potentially more responsive typing experience. Regardless of the choice made, a satisfactory typing experience can be achieved with either switch.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Everglide Bamboo Green tactile switch is best known for its high-pitched and resonant sound profile. These switches produce a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, providing an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a clacky sound reminiscent of a sprayed paint can being shaken. It produces a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. Both switches have a high-pitched sound profile, making them suitable for those who prefer a more sharp and crisp sound rather than a rich and bassy one. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Everglide Bamboo Green tactile switch has several descriptors to describe its tactile experience. It is described as stepped, meaning it has two stages and offers a mild tactile feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. The switch is also accented, providing a medium amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Its sharp tactile bump provides a strong and crisp feedback intensity with each keypress. Additionally, the switch is polished, resulting in a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimized resistance when pressing and releasing keys. It is also polished, providing reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer smooth and refined typing experiences, ensuring a comfortable and pleasant feel while typing.

Considering the information provided, the Everglide Bamboo Green tactile switch is best known for its clacky sound, distinct tactile feedback, and polished finish, while the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is best known for its silken smoothness and clacky sound. If you are seeking a high-pitched and resonant sound with a sharp and crisp tactile feedback, the Bamboo Green switch would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a silky smooth typing experience with a clacky sound, the Ink Box Black switch would be more suitable. The choice ultimately depends on personal preference and the specific typing experience one desires. It's important to consider other factors like the keyboard board and keycaps used, as they can also influence the overall sound and feel of the switches. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, but regardless of which one you choose, you can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium bottom out force and a clacky sound signature, the Everglide Bamboo Green is a great choice. These switches offer a crisp and sparkling tactility, which can enhance your typing experience. They have a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, providing a sharp and clean auditory experience. In terms of feel, the Bamboo Green switches are described as stepped, accented, sharp, and polished, offering a tactile bump that is noticeable but not overwhelming, and a smooth and refined typing experience.

On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a sound reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken, the Gateron Ink Box Black is worth considering. These switches are known for their exceptional smoothness and creamy feel, making each keystroke effortless and enjoyable. The Ink Box Black switches have a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, delivering a sharp and percussive sound when pressed. In terms of feel, they are described as silky and polished, further enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing experience.

Ultimately, the choice between the Everglide Bamboo Green tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch depends on your personal preferences. If you enjoy a tactile switch with a clacky sound signature and a medium bottom out force, the Bamboo Green is a great option. If you prefer a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and an incredibly smooth typing experience, the Ink Box Black is a solid choice. Consider both the sound and feel descriptions to determine which switch aligns better with your preferences and typing style.

Mentioned in this article

Everglide Bamboo Green Tactile

$9.67

$7.19 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more