Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Kailh BCP

Overview

When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Kailh BCP stand out as two popular linear options, each offering a unique tactile experience. The Ink Box Black is celebrated for its extremely smooth and creamy feel, producing a sound signature reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken, marked by high-pitched, clacky tones that provide auditory satisfaction with each keystroke. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate a polished feel and a fluid typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh BCP switches take inspiration from the iconic Black Cherry Pie switches and offer a creamy, viscous, and elastic feel that brings a delightful bounce to your typing. With a distinctive poppy and clacky sound profile, the BCP appeals to users who enjoy a more dynamic auditory feedback. While both switches cater to different preferences for smoothness and sound, they each provide a unique typing experience tailored to various user needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

Kailh BCP Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

$5.00

$4.75 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When examining the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Kailh BCP, notable differences emerge that influence their sound profiles. The Ink Box Black features a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housings, which is noted for producing a pointed, high-pitched sound that can be described as clacky. This results in a typing experience that emphasizes a satisfying auditory feedback, especially when the keys are released. In contrast, the Kailh BCP employs nylon for its top and bottom housing, which leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile characterized by rounder tones. This distinction arises from nylon's softer composition, which absorbs sound more effectively than the harder plastics used in the Ink Box Black, causing a dampened sound feedback during typing.

The contrasting materials of the two switches further highlight how sound characteristics can be affected by the choice of housing. The Gateron Ink Box Black, with its INK blend, promotes a sound profile that is defined by clarity and sharpness, ideal for users who prefer a more pronounced auditory experience. Conversely, the Kailh BCP's nylon housing produces a sound that is less defined but richer, appealing to those who favor a more muted acoustic signature while typing. This divergence showcases how the material properties can greatly influence user preference based on sound texture, with the clacky feedback of the Ink Box appealing to a distinct audience compared to the more subdued tone of the BCP.

Ultimately, while the Gateron Ink Box Black and Kailh BCP use different materials for their housings, both can deliver satisfying acoustic experiences, albeit in contrasting styles. Users of the Gateron switch will enjoy a more lively thock when typing, largely derived from its high-pitched sound characteristics, while users of the Kailh BCP will benefit from a rounded, less aggressive auditory feedback that caters to a different typing ambiance. Therefore, an understanding of these material distinctions is crucial for consumers when selecting switches that align with their auditory preferences, providing a clearer insight into how switch design impacts user experience.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, we see distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Ink Box Black has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it the heavier option among the two. In contrast, the Kailh BCP features a lighter actuation force of 52 grams and a lower bottom out force of 63.5 grams. This means that those who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions might find the BCP more comfortable, while users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel will likely gravitate toward the Ink Box Black. Overall, the BCP delivers a lighter touch, thanks to its lower forces, while the Ink Box Black offers a more robust push due to its heavier specifications.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Kailh BCP linear switch, it is evident that they differ slightly, with the Ink Box Black featuring a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the longer option, while the BCP has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This minor difference means that users who prefer a more responsive feel in their keystrokes may lean towards the Kailh BCP due to its shorter travel distance, which can facilitate quicker actions, particularly beneficial for gamers. Conversely, the Gateron Ink Box Black, with its slightly longer travel distance, may appeal to those who appreciate a deeper, more satisfying keypress. Ultimately, if users prefer a more pronounced travel feel, the Ink Box Black might be the better choice, while the BCP caters to those seeking a brisker, more immediate response.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch exhibits a distinctive clacky character, producing a sharp and high-pitched noise reminiscent of a spray paint can while shaken. This sound profile emphasizes a bright, crisp auditory experience, favored by those who appreciate the percussive tones of their typing. In contrast, the Kailh BCP linear switch seems to lean into a more poppy sound signature that can be described as clacky and lively, though detailed sound characteristics specific to the BCP are less documented. Overall, while both switches generate an engaging auditory experience, the Ink Box Black's clarity and brightness contrasts with the BCP's emphasis on poppy and dynamic sounds.

In terms of feel, the Ink Box Black features a silky and polished typing experience, making it exceptionally smooth to type on. The well-refined finish and minimal resistance foster a seamless keypress that many users highly appreciate. Meanwhile, the Kailh BCP is characterized by its creamy, viscous, and bouncy feel, offering a unique sensation with each keystroke. Although both switches focus on providing a pleasing tactile experience, the Ink Box Black emphasizes smoothness, while the BCP provides an engaging, elastic quality that can enhance the typing dynamics.

Collectively, the Gateron Ink Box Black and Kailh BCP linear switches present two distinct approaches to mechanical keyboard performance. The Ink Box Black stands out for its silky smooth feel and clear, clacky sound, while the BCP offers a bouncier and more elastic typing sensation with a lively auditory profile. Both switches cater to different preferences, making it essential for newcomers to consider their typing style and sound preferences when making a choice.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between Gateron Ink Box Black and Kailh BCP linear switches ultimately boils down to your personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and typing experience. If you prioritize a smooth, creamy typing experience with a distinct clacky sound, the Ink Box Black switches would be your best bet. Their heavier actuation force of 70 grams provides a satisfying and deliberate feedback that many users appreciate in a gaming or typing context. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more dynamic typing experience with an elasto-bouncy feel and a lighter actuation force of 63.5 grams, the Kailh BCP switches may be more up your alley. Their signature poppy sound and unique texture make them a joy to type on, combining both responsiveness and playfulness. Therefore, consider what you value more: a polished and silky experience or a lively and bouncy one. Your choice will not only enhance your mechanical keyboard experience but also reflect your individual typing style.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more

Kailh BCP Linear

$5.00

$4.75 per 10

Learn more