Huano Elf vs. Gateron Ink Box Black

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Elf and Gateron Ink Box Black offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Huano Elf is celebrated for its POK top housing, which enhances acoustics and delivers a deep sound signature, all while offering a medium-light feel that many users find satisfying for prolonged typing sessions. This switch is ideal for those who prioritize an enjoyable auditory experience alongside a balanced tactile response. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Box Black switches are renowned for their silky smoothness and polished feel, providing a creamy typing experience that some users liken to the sound of a shaken spray paint can—making it an excellent option for gamers and typists who value speed and fluidity in their keystrokes. While both switches fall under the linear category, their unique sound signatures and feel can significantly affect your overall typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your individual needs.

By the numbers

Huano Elf Linear

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Huano Elf and Gateron Ink Box Black switches exhibit distinct differences in their housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles and overall performance. The Elf's top housing is constructed from POK, a polyketone material renowned for its low coefficient of friction (0.04), which results in a smooth actuation. In comparison, the Ink Box Black features a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housings but lacks the specific technical properties attributed to POK. While both housings aim to deliver a clacky, engaging typing experience, the Elf’s POK material stands out for its exceptional durability and shock resistance, offering a unique combination of smoothness and resilience that may not be fully replicated by the INK blend.

When examining the bottom housing materials, the differences are even more pronounced. The Huano Elf utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, which is known for its ability to absorb sound more effectively due to its softer composition. As a result, the Elf produces a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. In contrast, both the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Ink Box Black utilize the same proprietary INK blend, which reinforces the high-pitched and slightly sharp sound character of the switch. While both switches are clacky in nature, the material combination in the Elf creates a broader spectrum of acoustic experience, with a focus on producing a rounder sound compared to the ink's pointed pitch.

Ultimately, the varying materials lead to unique tactile experiences and auditory feedback for users. Although there are qualities of the sound profile derived from the different housings, both switches offer a fulfilling typing experience, albeit in different ways. If one chooses to pair the Elf's robust, smoother escalation characteristics with the Ink Box Black's bright auditory resonance, they can achieve an amalgamated typing experience that captures the essence of both switches. By balancing the performance traits of each, users can enjoy the best aspects of both the POK and INK blend housings in their typing experience, combining durability with captivating sound dynamics.

Weight

When comparing the Huano Elf linear switch to the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, we can see distinct differences in their actuation forces. The Elf has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, making it easier to press and potentially more suitable for long typing sessions or gaming, while the Ink Box Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams, which provides a more substantial push feel that may appeal to those who prefer a stronger resistance. Additionally, the bottom out force for the Elf is unknown, whereas the Ink Box Black has a defined bottom out force of 70 grams, categorized as medium-heavy. This difference suggests that when bottoming out, the Ink Box Black will require significantly more force compared to the Elf. In summary, typists looking for a lighter touch might prefer the Huano Elf, while those seeking a more pronounced tactile experience would likely lean towards the Gateron Ink Box Black.

Travel distance

Both the Huano Elf linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch feature identical travel distances of 3.6 mm. This equivalence means that when pressing down on the keys equipped with either switch, users can expect a similar tactile experience throughout the key press. With both switches having the same travel distance, players and typists will notice no significant difference in how far they need to depress the keys, ensuring a consistent feel whether using the Elf or the Ink Box Black.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Huano Elf switch is recognized for its deep sound signature, which contributes to a more resonant acoustic profile, enhancing the overall typing experience. This sound is generally regarded as satisfying, potentially due to its POK top housing that aids in producing a more rounded auditory experience. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch offers a unique auditory feedback reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken; this suggests a lighter, possibly higher-pitched sound. With its described characteristics leaning towards clackiness and brightness, the Ink Box Black may deliver a sharper and snappier sound, making it suitable for those who appreciate a more vibrant auditory experience while typing.

When considering the feel, the Huano Elf switch provides a medium-light resistance that contributes to an enjoyable typing experience that doesn't require excessive force. This balanced feel is likely to accommodate a wide range of users from typists to gamers. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black excels in smoothness, characterized as silky and polished. This means that users who opt for the Ink Box Black will likely experience a remarkably smooth transition between key presses, with reduced friction that enhances overall key travel. While the Elf may offer a satisfying tactile feedback, those who prioritize an ultra-smooth typing experience might lean towards the Ink Box Black for its refined feel.

In conclusion, both the Huano Elf and Gateron Ink Box Black linear switches present compelling qualities that appeal to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Elf boasts a deep sound and a medium-light feel, making it well-suited for users who appreciate auditory richness combined with balanced resistance. Conversely, the Ink Box Black is celebrated for its creamy, silky touch and a vibrant sound profile reminiscent of a spray can, catering to those who seek exceptionally smooth keystrokes and a higher-pitched sound. Depending on your preferences in sound and feel, either switch can deliver a satisfying typing experience, albeit with distinct character traits that highlight their unique appeal.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Huano Elf linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch ultimately depends on your preferences in typing experience and sound. If you're looking for a switch that emphasizes acoustics and delivers a unique sound signature, the Elf may be a better fit for you. With its POK top housing, it provides a medium-light feel that could be tailored for comfortable typing, making it a suitable option for casual typists or those who prioritize auditory feedback without overwhelming force. On the other hand, if you prefer a more robust typing feel with a medium-heavy bottom-out force, the Gateron Ink Box Black would likely appeal to you. Renowned for its silky and polished operation, this switch offers an exceptionally smooth experience along with a crisp sound signature, reminiscent of a spray paint can, making it ideal for users who enjoy a well-defined acoustic profile and a satisfying tactile response. Ultimately, consider how these characteristics align with your typing style, whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a balance of both, as this will guide you in selecting the switch that enhances your mechanical keyboard experience the most.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Elf Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more