Gateron Ink Box Black vs. PH Studio Jacaranda
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the PH Studio Jacaranda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering two sought-after mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Box Black and the PH Studio Jacaranda, both linear switches, offer distinctive features that cater to different preferences. The Ink Box Black is renowned for its silky smoothness and high-pitched sound reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken, making it appealing to those who value a polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Jacaranda by PH Studio boasts a gentle bottom-out force of 43.5g, ideal for reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Its unique 22mm spring provides a bouncy sensation with each key press, elevating the overall typing experience to new levels. While both switches are categorized as 'clacky' and 'high-pitched', the Ink Box Black leans towards a more polished sound, while the Jacaranda offers a resonant feedback. 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
60g
Actuation force
39g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the PH Studio Jacaranda, it is clear that there are significant differences in the sound profiles they produce. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Black provides a pointed and high-pitched sound, described as clacky, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Jacaranda creates a sharper and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate in the Jacaranda switch leads to a more resonant sound profile, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Black provides a similar high-pitched sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Jacaranda elicits a deeper and fuller sound.
Despite the differences in sound profiles produced by the top and bottom housing materials of the two switches, they both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The INK blend used in the Ink Box Black creates a satisfying and clacky sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the Jacaranda absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. While the top housing of the switches has a greater impact on the sound when pressing down on the key, the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. This split in qualities between the top and bottom housing allows for a more varied and nuanced typing experience.
In conclusion, the choice between the Gateron Ink Box Black and the PH Studio Jacaranda ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. The INK blend housing of the Ink Box Black provides a unique and clacky sound, while the polycarbonate and nylon housing of the Jacaranda offers a sharper and fuller sound. Both switches have their own aesthetic appeal, with the translucent polycarbonate of the Jacaranda being especially suitable for RGB lighting. Overall, the housing materials of these switches play a crucial role in shaping the sound and feel of each keystroke, providing users with a customized typing experience based on their preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch differ significantly in weight. The Gateron Ink Box Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the PH Studio Jacaranda switch is much lighter, with an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a more delicate option. Those who prefer a lighter touch may gravitate towards the Jacaranda switch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the heavier Gateron Ink Box Black switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter range of travel distances, making them ideal for gamers looking for faster response times. The difference of 0.1 mm may not be noticeable to some users, but for those who prefer a slightly deeper key press, the Gateron switch may provide a more satisfying experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and the feel of the key press.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The PH Studio Jacaranda has an MSRP of $3.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jacaranda for $3.30.
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
When it comes to sound, both the Gateron Ink Box Black and PH Studio Jacaranda linear switches share similar qualities of being clacky and high-pitched. The Ink Box Black offers a sharp and percussive sound reminiscent of shaking a spray paint can, while the Jacaranda provides a crisp and audible feedback with a clackier tone due to its extended 22mm spring. Depending on personal preferences, one may lean towards the slightly higher-pitched sound of the Ink Box Black or the unique bouncy sensation of the Jacaranda.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, both the Ink Box Black and Jacaranda are known for being silky in terms of typing experience. The Ink Box Black is described as incredibly smooth and creamy, offering a polished finish that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Similarly, the Jacaranda provides a silky smooth typing experience that is gentle on the fingers, ensuring fatigue-free typing sessions. The refined finish of these switches enhances the overall smoothness of key travel, making them ideal for prolonged typing sessions.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Ink Box Black and PH Studio Jacaranda linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Ink Box Black provides a smooth and creamy typing experience with a sharp and percussive sound, the Jacaranda stands out with its bouncy sensation and clacky feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference in sound and feeling, as both switches offer top-notch performance in their respective qualities. Experimentation with different keyboards and keycaps may further enhance the overall typing experience with these switches.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth, creamy typing experience with a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, then the Ink Box Black may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a uniquely bouncy typing sensation with a clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound profile, along with a smooth, silky typing feel, then the Jacaranda could be the better fit for your preferences. Ultimately, both switches bring their own set of characteristics to the table, so it's important to prioritize what factors matter most to you in your typing experience.
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