TTC Flaming Purple vs. Gateron Ink Box Black
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Purple and the Gateron Ink Box Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, it is evident that both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Flaming Purple stands out for its resonant character, with a slightly bassier sound signature that adds a poppy undertone to each keystroke. Its feathery nature and low bottom-out force make typing swift and effortless, appealing to both enthusiasts and daily typists. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black is recognized for its incredibly smooth and creamy feel, with a sound reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. The Ink Box Black offers a clacky and polished typing experience, with a higher-pitched sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
47g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Flaming Purple and the Gateron Ink Box Black offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall typing experience. The Flaming Purple features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Ink Box Black utilizes a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a pointed and high-pitched sound, described as clacky. Both materials offer a distinct sound profile that can enhance the tactile feedback of the switch.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Flaming Purple incorporates a nylon material that brings a deeper and fuller sound profile to the switch. Nylon is softer than polycarbonate, allowing it to absorb more sound and create a rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black's proprietary INK blend bottom housing also contributes to a pointed and high-pitched sound, complementing the top housing's characteristics. Despite the differences in material, both bottom housings aim to enhance the overall sound and feel of the switch.
While the housing materials of the Flaming Purple and the Ink Box Black differ in composition, they both play a crucial role in shaping the sound and feel of the switch. The split between the top and bottom housings allows for a more nuanced typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when a key is released. Whether it's the stiffer polycarbonate of the Flaming Purple or the proprietary INK blend of the Ink Box Black, both switches offer unique sound profiles that can cater to different typing preferences.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, it is evident that the Flaming Purple is the lighter option with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 47 grams. In contrast, the Ink Box Black is the heavier option with an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams. The Flaming Purple provides a light and effortless typing experience, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black offers a more substantial and tactile typing feel, catering to those who prefer a stronger push. Both switches have different preferences in terms of weight, with the Flaming Purple being lighter and the Ink Box Black being heavier, providing users with varied options based on their typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch both have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key using either of these switches, users will experience the same amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom. As a result, the typing experience and feel of these switches will be very similar. Whether you choose the Flaming Purple or the Ink Box Black, you can expect consistent performance in terms of travel distance. Both of these switches offer a standard travel distance, making them suitable choices for those who prefer a consistent typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flaming Purple has an MSRP of $8.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Purple for $4.30.
The Gateron Ink Box Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Box Black for $7.65.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch stands out for its bassier undertones and resonant character, offering a unique and engaging auditory experience with a poppy undertone to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is best known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. Depending on personal preferences, the Flaming Purple may appeal to those who enjoy a deeper, richer sound, while the Ink Box Black may cater to individuals seeking a sharper and crisper auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Flaming Purple switch is characterized by its feathery nature, requiring just 47g of force to bottom out, making typing swift and effortless, reducing finger fatigue for extended typing sessions. It offers a comfortable typing experience with minimal strain on the fingers, suitable for enthusiasts and daily typists alike. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black switch is described as silky and polished, delivering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches provide a comfortable and low-impact typing feel, enhancing the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics to cater to different preferences. While the Flaming Purple provides a bassier and resonant sound with a feathery typing feel, the Ink Box Black delivers a clacky, high-pitched sound with a silky and polished typing experience. Depending on whether you prefer a deeper, richer sound or a sharper, crisper sound, and a lighter, feathery feel or a smoother, polished feel, you can choose the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences for a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel to make your decision. The Flaming Purple with its light 47g bottom out force offers a feathery and effortless typing experience, best suited for those who prefer a lighter touch for gaming or long typing sessions. It also provides a resonant, bassy sound profile. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black with its medium-heavy 70g bottom out force delivers a silky smooth typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a bit more resistance for precision typing tasks. It also produces a clacky, high-pitched sound profile. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your personal typing preferences and the specific use case for your keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
