Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Jerrzi Orange
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Jerrzi Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Jerrzi Orange mechanical keyboard switches, both options are linear switches that provide a unique typing experience. The Ink Box Black is praised for its smooth and creamy feel, reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken, and offers a 'clacky', 'high-pitched', 'silky', and 'polished' sound signature. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange switches are known for their clacky linear design, with a lightweight feel that delivers crisp and audible feedback with each keystroke. They are described as 'feathery', 'easy-to-press', 'subdued', and 'clacky'. Depending on your preference, you may choose the Ink Box Black for its smoothness and polish, or the Jerrzi Orange for its lively and responsive typing experience. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and Jerrzi Orange switches both offer unique sound profiles. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Black produces a thin, higher-pitched sound that is described as clacky, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Orange creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate in the housing of the Orange switch results in a more clear and resonant sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Black also contributes to a pointed and high-pitched sound profile, similar to its top housing.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Ink Box Black features a proprietary INK blend bottom housing, which offers a similar sound profile to its top housing. On the other hand, the Orange switch utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed down.
In summary, the Gateron Ink Box Black and Jerrzi Orange switches showcase contrasting housing materials that impact the sound profile and feel of the switches. While the INK blend top and bottom housings of the Ink Box Black offer a consistent thin and high-pitched sound profile, the Orange switch's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound, complemented by a nylon bottom housing that creates a deeper and fuller sound. The choice of housing material in a switch can greatly affect the overall typing experience and sound output, making it essential to consider these factors when selecting a switch for a mechanical keyboard setup.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Jerrzi Orange linear switch, it is evident that the two switches have significant differences. The Gateron Ink Box Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Jerrzi Orange's lighter 37 grams. Similarly, the Ink Box Black has a bottom out force of 70 grams, while the bottom out force of the Orange is unknown. This makes the Ink Box Black a heavier option for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, while the Jerrzi Orange is lighter and may be preferred by users who type for longer periods or engage in extended gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences 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 Jerrzi Orange linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prioritize quick response times, such as gamers. The difference between the two distances is minimal, with the Orange switch being slightly longer. However, in practical terms, users are unlikely to notice a significant discrepancy in feel between the two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, providing a smooth and efficient typing experience.
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 Jerrzi Orange has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $2.30.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Box Black offers a sharp and snappy clacky sound reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange switches provide a lively and audible feedback with each keystroke, delivering a crisp and clacky sound. While the Ink Box Black has a high-pitched sound profile, the Orange switches offer a more subdued yet still noticeable sound signature. Both switches exhibit distinct sound qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Ink Box Black leaning towards a brighter and percussive sound, while the Orange switches offer a more subtle and lightweight clacky sound.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black provides an exceptionally smooth and silky typing experience, minimizing resistance and enhancing overall comfort during keystrokes. The polished finish of these switches ensures a refined and sleek feel, contributing to a smoother typing experience. In contrast, the Jerrzi Orange switches offer a feathery and easy-to-press typing feel, requiring minimal exertion and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The lightweight actuation force of the Orange switches makes them comfortable for various uses, including gaming, school, or work. Overall, both switches offer unique tactile qualities that cater to different typing preferences, with the Ink Box Black emphasizing smoothness and the Orange switches focusing on lightness and responsiveness.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Jerrzi Orange linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Ink Box Black provides a clacky and high-pitched sound with a silky and polished typing feel, the Jerrzi Orange switches deliver a lively clacky sound with a feathery and easy-to-press typing experience. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Those seeking a smoother and more refined typing feel may prefer the Ink Box Black, while enthusiasts looking for a lightweight and responsive typing experience may lean towards the Jerrzi Orange switches.Overall, both switches provide satisfying results with their unique characteristics, offering a vibrant and enjoyable typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering between the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Jerrzi Orange linear switch, you should choose the Ink Box Black if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth, creamy typing experience with a high-pitched and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, opt for the Jerrzi Orange if you enjoy a lightweight feel with crisp and audible feedback, making it a lively choice for those who appreciate a responsive and vibrant typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preference in terms of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. Choose wisely based on what aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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