Gateron CM vs. Gateron Ink Box Black

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the Gateron CM and the Gateron Ink Box Black. The CM switch breaks away from convention with its full nylon housing, resulting in a richer, deeper sound signature. With an impeccable factory lube job, these switches offer an effortlessly smooth typing experience, giving the sensation of gliding gracefully with each keystroke. Additionally, the lengthened, dual-staged spring of the CM switch provides a bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black switches are renowned for their incredible smoothness and creamy feel. The sound they produce reminds us of a spray paint can being shaken, offering a unique auditory experience. While the CM switch is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Bassy', 'Polished', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Frictionless', the Ink Box Black switch is categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', and 'Polished'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Gateron CM Linear

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

$4.80

$4.25 per 10

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron CM and Gateron Ink Box Black switches both have different housing materials for their top and bottom components. The CM switch utilizes a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The nylon material is known for being softer and absorbing more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black switch features Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing. This material produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, described as clacky. While the sound profiles differ between the two, both the CM and Ink Box Black switches deliver satisfactory typing experiences with distinct auditory characteristics.

In terms of the bottom housings, the CM switch utilizes nylon, just like its top housing. This material also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as it absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black switch incorporates Gateron's INK blend material for its bottom housing. This material offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, but not excessively sharp. Both switches deliver unique auditory experiences based on their bottom housing materials, providing users with a satisfying, thin, and higher-pitched sound.

Although the top and bottom housings differ between the CM and Ink Box Black switches, the impact they have on the overall typing experience varies slightly. When you press down on either switch, you will primarily feel the qualities of the bottom housing. The bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key. However, the top housing material plays a more significant role in the sound produced when you release the key. Despite these distinctions, both switches offer a similar tactile experience and deliver enhanced auditory characteristics based on the choices of their respective housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, there are some noticeable differences. The CM switch has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes with a lighter touch. In contrast, the Ink Box Black switch requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 60 grams. Both switches, however, fall into the medium-heavy category.

Moving on to the bottom out force, the CM switch requires 63.5 grams of force to fully press down, creating a more substantial typing experience. In comparison, the Ink Box Black switch has a slightly higher bottom out force of 70 grams, providing an even stronger push feel.

Considering the weight of the switches, some individuals may prefer the lighter actuation force of the CM switch, as it allows for extended typing or gaming sessions without causing too much strain. This makes it a suitable option for those bringing their keyboard to work or engaging in lengthy gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more robust and substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the heavier forces of the Ink Box Black switch.

In summary, while the Gateron CM linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, both switches still fall within the medium-heavy range. Consequently, individuals can expect similar results in terms of actuation and bottoming out force, albeit with slight variations in strength between the two switches.

Travel distance

The Gateron CM linear 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 tactile experience when pressed down, as they will travel the same distance from the top to the bottom. Whether you choose the CM or the Ink Box Black, you can expect to feel a consistent and comfortable travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron CM linear switch offers a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile. This means that when the keys are pressed, they produce a deeper and richer sound with lower frequencies reminiscent of bass tones. The sound can be characterized as a satisfying "thud" or a soft "knock". On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is described as clacky and high-pitched. When pressed, these switches produce a sharp and snappy sound, similar to a spray paint can being shaken. The sound is crisp, bright, and percussive. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be affected by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.

In terms of feel, the Gateron CM linear switch provides a buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience. These switches offer a smooth and fluid keystroke, resulting in a seamless and effortless typing sensation. They have a refined finish, reduced friction, and smooth key travel. Typing on the CM switches feels like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease, as they effortlessly melt into each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is described as silky and polished. These switches offer an exceptionally smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance and enhancing overall smoothness when pressing and releasing keys. They also have reduced friction and smooth key travel.

In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CM switches have a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deeper and richer sound experience. They offer a buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless typing feel, resulting in a smooth and effortless typing journey. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black switches have a clacky and high-pitched sound, offering a sharp and snappy typing sound. They provide a silky and polished typing sensation, enhancing smoothness and minimizing resistance. Depending on the individual's preferences, one can choose the switch that aligns with their desired sound and feel characteristics. However, please note that the chosen keyboard board and keycaps can also have an impact on the final sound and feel of the switches.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you're looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron CM linear switch and Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch both offer a similar weight at 63.5 grams and 70 grams respectively. However, there are key differences in terms of sound and feel that may influence your decision.

The Gateron CM linear switch is best known for its full nylon housing, which delivers a richer, deeper sound. If you prefer a switch that offers a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, the CM switch is a great choice. Additionally, the CM switch provides a smooth and effortless typing experience, with descriptors like buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless. These features contribute to a seamless and uniform typing sensation, as well as reduced friction and smooth key travel.

On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is described as clacky and high-pitched. If you prefer a switch that produces a sharp and snappy sound, the Ink Box Black is a good option. In terms of feel, the Ink Box Black offers a silky typing experience, enhancing the overall smoothness and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, like the CM switch, it also has a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction.

Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron CM linear switch and Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch depends on your preference regarding sound and feel. If you enjoy a deeper, bassier sound and a smoother, buttery feel, the CM switch is the way to go. However, if you prefer a sharper, clackier sound with a silky typing experience, the Ink Box Black switch is a better choice. Consider the features that align with your personal preferences to find the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for you.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron CM Linear

$4.80

$4.25 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more