Kailh Box White vs. Gateron Ink Box Black

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that come to mind are the Kailh Box White and the Gateron Ink Box Black. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Box White switch is a clicky switch that is best known for its maximum audio feedback. Typing on these switches results in a satisfying "stepping on autumn leaves"-like crunch and offers an accented tactility. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black switch is a linear switch that is incredibly smooth and creamy to use. The sound signature of these switches resembles the shaking of a spray paint can. While the Box White switch offers a more resonant and high-pitched experience, the Ink Box Black switch provides a clacky and silky typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision on which switch suits your needs and preferences.

By the numbers

Kailh Box White Clicky

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

$2.76 per 10

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

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Housing materials

The Kailh Box White and the Gateron Ink Box Black differ in their housing materials, particularly in the top housing. The Box White utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, while the Ink Box Black features Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box White creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. It is known for its clear and resonant sound, making it a popular choice for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Black produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, described as being clacky. While both offer distinct sound profiles, the Ink Box Black's sound is slightly less sharp compared to the Box White.

Moving on to the bottom housings, the Box White uses a nylon material, while the Ink Box Black has its own proprietary INK blend bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile in the Box White. It absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, Gateron's INK blend bottom housing in the Ink Box Black provides a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, characterized as clacky. In terms of sound, the Ink Box Black's bottom housing offers a similar sound profile as the Box White's, while maintaining its own unique qualities.

Despite the differences in housing materials, it is important to note that the qualities each material brings to the switch are split between the bottom and top housing. When pressing down on either switch, the feel and sound will be influenced by the bottom housing, while releasing a key will be impacted by the top housing. Therefore, while the Box White and Ink Box Black may have variations in their housing materials, they ultimately offer comparable results in terms of typing experience and overall sound.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, it is clear that they offer different experiences in terms of weight. The Box White has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Ink Box Black's actuation force of 60 grams, making the Box White more responsive for those who prefer a lighter touch. Similarly, when it comes to bottoming out, the Box White requires 60 grams of force while the Ink Box Black demands a slightly heavier 70 grams. Overall, this makes the Ink Box Black a better choice for individuals who seek a more substantial typing experience, as they will have to apply a greater amount of force to register keystrokes. However, both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, so the results achieved will be comparable. Ultimately, the decision as to which switch to choose will depend on the individual's personal preference and desired typing experience.

Travel distance

The Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar experience in terms of the distance you feel when pressing down on a key. In terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the two switches as they both offer the same 3.6 mm travel distance. So whether you choose the Kailh Box White or the Gateron Ink Box Black, you can expect a consistent and uniform travel distance when typing or gaming.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Kailh Box White clicky switch offers a resonant and high-pitched sound profile. When typing on these switches, users can expect a clean and sharp sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound. The sound is described as crisp, bright, and percussive, similar to the sound of a spray paint can being shaken. 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 chosen.

In terms of feel, the Kailh Box White switch is identified as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. This is achieved through the use of high-quality materials and potentially factory lubing. Users can expect reduced friction and smooth key travel when using these switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black switch is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience. These switches minimize resistance when pressing and releasing keys and enhance the overall smoothness of the typing feel. Additionally, like the Kailh Box White, they are also identified as polished switches, resulting in a sleek typing experience.

Based on the available information, it is clear that the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box White provides a resonant and high-pitched sound with a crunchy feel when typing, while the Ink Box Black delivers a clacky and high-pitched sound with a silky and polished feel. These differences allow users to choose switches that best align with their personal preferences for both sound and feel. However, it is worth noting that individual results may vary depending on factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

Conclusion

In closing, if you are looking for a keyboard switch that provides maximum audio feedback and a distinctive tactile sensation, the Kailh Box White clicky switch would be the ideal choice. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, it offers a medium level of resistance. Typing on the Box White switch will give you a satisfying "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch and a pronounced tactility. Additionally, the sound profile of the Box White switch is resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience.

On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and creamy typing experience with a slightly heavier bottom out force, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch would be a great fit. With a bottom out force of 70 grams, it falls into the medium-heavy category. The Ink Box Black switch delivers an exceptionally smooth and polished feel, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The sound signature of the Ink Box Black is clacky and high-pitched, offering a sharp and crisp sound when typing.

Ultimately, your decision between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch should be based on your preferences for audio feedback and typing feel. If you enjoy the sound of crunchy autumn leaves and a noticeable tactile response, the Box White switch is the way to go. Alternatively, if you prefer a silky smooth typing experience with a slightly heavier touch, the Ink Box Black switch is a top contender. Consider your desired level of resistance, sound profile, and tactile feedback to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Box White Clicky

$2.76 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more