Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Gateron Jupiter Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Gateron Jupiter Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Gateron Jupiter Red mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that both offer unique advantages to users. The Ink Box Black is celebrated for its smooth and creamy keystrokes, with a sound signature reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', and 'Polished', this switch provides a distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red stands out for its smooth, uninterrupted keystrokes and medium-heavy actuation, thanks to a single-stage spring design. Categorized as 'Polished', 'Creamy', 'Silky', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', the Jupiter Red offers a consistent typing experience with high-precision molds and softer backlight effects. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference and typing style; 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
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Spring steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Gateron Jupiter Red, it is evident that both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Black provides a high-pitched and clacky sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Jupiter Red offers a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the Nylon bottom housing of the Jupiter Red produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Black. These differences in sound profiles can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users.
One key distinction between the two housing materials is the stiffness and absorbency levels. The polycarbonate used in the Jupiter Red switch is a stiffer plastic, resulting in a clearer and resonant sound profile. On the other hand, the nylon material in the bottom housing of the Jupiter Red absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the INK blend material in the Ink Box Black provides a more satisfying and higher-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. These differences in material properties contribute to the distinct sound profiles of each switch.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Gateron Jupiter Red offer unique sound characteristics, it is important to note that the overall typing experience of a switch is influenced by both the top and bottom housing materials. The impact of each housing material can be felt when pressing down on a key for the bottom housing and when releasing a key for the top housing. Whether you prefer a sharper and crisper sound profile with polycarbonate housing or a clacky and satisfying sound profile with INK blend housing, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in typing sound.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, it is evident that there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The 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 comparison, the Jupiter Red offers a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight option. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Ink Box Black, while individuals looking for a lighter touch may find the Jupiter Red more suitable. Both switches offer unique advantages, with the lighter force of the Jupiter Red catering to longer typing sessions and gaming, while the heavier force of the Ink Box Black provides a more robust and tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend 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 Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Ink Box Black has a shorter travel distance compared to the Jupiter Red. The 3.6 mm travel distance of the Ink Box Black may provide a quicker response time, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Jupiter Red may offer a deeper key press, which some users may find more comfortable for typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a shorter or longer travel distance.
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 Gateron Jupiter Red comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, which produces a sharp and snappy noise reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for various intents and purposes. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, both the Ink Box Black and Jupiter Red switches are described as having a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Ink Box Black is further characterized as silky and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth typing feel with minimal resistance. In contrast, the Jupiter Red switch is also described as creamy and silky, providing a buttery typing experience where fingers effortlessly glide across the keys with ease. Additionally, the Jupiter Red switch is classified as mild, offering a gentle typing experience suitable for most users.
Overall, both the Gateron Ink Box Black and Jupiter Red linear switches offer smooth and seamless typing experiences with high-precision molds and softer backlight effects in the case of the Jupiter Red. While the sound profiles differ between the two switches, the feel of both switches is characterized by smoothness and a polished finish. Depending on your preference for sound and typing experience, you can achieve similar results with either switch, ensuring a satisfying and consistent typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a clacky, high-pitched sound profile, along with a silky and polished typing feel, then the Gateron Ink Box Black may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force, a neutral sound profile, and a mix of polished, creamy, and silky typing feel, then the Gateron Jupiter Red could be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile.
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