HMX Deep Navy vs. Gateron Ink Box Black

Overview

When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Deep Navy and Gateron Ink Box Black offer compelling choices for enthusiasts seeking a linear experience, but they present distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Deep Navy is celebrated for its rich and sharp sound profile, crafted from full nylon for exceptional durability, while its Ly stem ensures a silky smooth keystroke that many typists appreciate for long hours of use. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Box Black switches are known for their incredibly smooth and creamy feel, with a sound signature reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken, appealing to those who enjoy a more clacky and high-pitched auditory feedback during their typing sessions. Both switches bring their unique qualities to the table, making them desirable options for varying user experiences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Deep Navy Linear

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

$3.50

$2.79 per 10

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials used in the HMX Deep Navy and Gateron Ink Box Black switches exhibit distinct characteristics that greatly influence the overall sound profile and typing experience. The Deep Navy features a nylon top and bottom housing, known for its softer texture, which results in a deeper and fuller sound during typing. The nylon material absorbs sound effectively, reducing the sharper, more resonant tones that can sometimes be present in harder plastics. This leads to a rounded acoustic experience, making it particularly appealing for users who prefer a quieter, more subdued typing atmosphere.

In contrast, the Gateron Ink Box Black incorporates a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housings, producing a sound profile that is characterized as pointed and relatively high-pitched. This material choice lends itself to a clacky and satisfying auditory feedback, appealing to those who enjoy a more expressive and louder typing sound. While both switches utilize different materials, the result is that the Ink Box Black offers a significantly distinct auditory experience compared to the smoother, more muted sound of the Deep Navy, primarily due to the inherent properties of the plastics involved.

It is essential to note that even when the housing materials differ, the outcome of the switch's performance can still provide typists with enjoyable results. The specific characteristics of each housing material play a role in determining the sound profile experienced during typing. In the case of the Deep Navy, the nylon's ability to absorb sound results in a subdued experience, while the Ink Box Black's INK blend enhances brightness. Typists who favor a balance of deep and full tones may find satisfaction in the Deep Navy, while those who prefer a pronounced and crisp feedback may lean towards the Gateron Ink Box Black. Ultimately, personal preference will dictate which switch is more appealing based on desired sound signatures and typing sensations.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Deep Navy features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, particularly beneficial for extended sessions of typing or gaming. In contrast, the Ink Box Black has a medium-heavy actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a firmer push feel for a more substantial tactile feedback. As a result, while the Deep Navy is the lighter option, providing ease of use, the Ink Box Black offers a stronger resistance for users who favor a heftier switch. Consequently, those who prioritize a lightweight typing experience would gravitate towards the Deep Navy, whereas those seeking a more pronounced resistance would lean towards the Ink Box Black.

Travel distance

The HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch both feature an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm, indicating that you will experience similar results in key actuation when using either switch. This equal travel distance means that both switches provide the same amount of movement from the top to the bottom, creating a consistent key press experience. Thus, whether you choose the Deep Navy or the Ink Box Black, you can expect a comparable feel and responsiveness in typing or gaming scenarios, thanks to their shared specification.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Deep Navy switch presents a rich, sharp sound profile that enhances the typing experience with its full nylon construction. This results in a clean acoustic signature that many typists appreciate for its clarity and depth. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black switch offers a sound that is more clacky and high-pitched. The auditory experience is reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken, providing a bright and crisp feedback with each keystroke. Therefore, while both switches have their distinct sonic qualities, the Deep Navy leans towards a fuller sound, whereas the Ink Box Black leans towards a sharper, more percussive profile.

When it comes to feel, the Deep Navy is notable for its silky smoothness, allowing for very fluid keystrokes. This smooth action contributes to a seamless typing experience, reducing any tactile resistance that might otherwise detract from the overall feel of the keyboard. In comparison, the Ink Box Black switches are equally praised for their silky and polished typing experience. They provide a refined touch that minimizes friction during key presses and releases, making the typing feel exceptionally smooth and pleasurable. As a result, both switch types excel in delivering a smooth keystroke, although the nuances of their design may yield slight differences in tactile feedback.

In conclusion, both the HMX Deep Navy and Gateron Ink Box Black linear switches cater to those seeking a smooth typing experience, albeit with different auditory profiles. The Deep Navy offers a richer and deeper sound, while the Ink Box Black provides a sharper and more clacky auditory feedback. Feel-wise, both switches excel in providing silky smoothness, with the Deep Navy’s construction contributing to a seamless experience and the Ink Box Black’s polished finish enhancing the overall tactile satisfaction. Choosing between these switches may ultimately come down to personal preference in sound, but both are known for delivering a quality typing experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences for both sound and feel. If you prefer a lighter typing experience with a bottom-out force of 45 grams and a rich, sharp sound profile, the Deep Navy switch might be your best option. Its silky-smooth keystrokes, coupled with a unique nylon construction, allow for a pleasant and refined typing experience, making it great for extended periods of use or for tasks that require a softer touch. On the other hand, if you seek a more substantial resistance in your keystrokes, the Medium-heavy 70 grams bottom-out force of the Ink Box Black will provide that firmer feedback you might desire, along with a clacky, high-pitched sound that adds a playful character to your typing. The Ink Box Black excels in delivering an incredibly smooth and creamy feel, ideal for those who value a polished typing experience without the distraction of heavier resistance. Therefore, your choice should align with whether you value a lighter, more refined switch or a firmer, more vibrant typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Deep Navy Linear

$3.50

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more