Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Keygeek Keygeek Raw
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw, both of which are linear switches. The Ink Box Black is renowned for its smooth and creamy feel, with a sound signature reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw stands out for its unique material blend, combining Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon to create a delightfully creamy yet lightweight switch. While the Ink Box Black is categorized as 'Clacky' and 'High-pitched', the Keygeek Raw is described as 'Textured' and 'Mild'. Both switches offer their own unique benefits, whether you prefer a polished and silky feel or a slightly textured and neutral 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Box Black and Keygeek Keygeek Raw both have unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profile. The Ink Box Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing that creates a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound, while the Keygeek Raw uses a Nylon & UPE blend top housing exclusive to their switches. This difference in top housing materials may result in slightly varied sound characteristics when typing on the switches.
In terms of bottom housing, the Gateron Ink Box Black utilizes its proprietary INK blend which also contributes to the pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile of the switch. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw employs a UMPE & Si blend bottom housing exclusive to their switches. The bottom housing material plays a crucial role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, so these differences may influence the overall typing experience on each switch.
While the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches are unique to each brand, they both aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their distinct sound profiles. Although the blends used in the top and bottom housings may differ between the two switches, users can expect similar results in terms of overall feel and sound characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference and desired typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, it is evident that the Ink Box Black is the heavier option. The actuation force of the Ink Box Black is 60 grams, while the Keygeek Raw's actuation force is unknown. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Ink Box Black is 70 grams, slightly higher than the 57.5 grams of the Keygeek Raw. This makes the Keygeek Raw the lighter option of the two. The difference in weight between the two switches can significantly impact the typing experience for users. Some may prefer the heavier actuation and bottom out force of the Ink Box Black for a more substantial typing feel, while others may opt for the lighter Keygeek Raw for longer typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Keygeek Raw linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances preferred by many gamers for faster response times. However, the Keygeek Raw offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Gateron Ink Box Black. This means that the Keygeek Raw may provide a slightly quicker and more responsive typing experience than the Gateron Ink Box Black. On the other hand, some users may find the shorter travel distance of the Keygeek Raw to be too abrupt, and may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Black for a more substantial keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing or gaming 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 Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
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 offers a clacky and high-pitched sound signature, reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw linear switch provides a more neutral sound profile, suitable for a variety of settings and preferences. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is praised for its silky and polished typing experience, offering exceptional smoothness and minimized resistance when pressing keys. In contrast, the Keygeek Raw linear switch provides a textured and mild typing feel, with some users appreciating the subtle friction while others prefer a smoother experience. Additionally, the Keygeek Raw switches arrive unlubricated, allowing enthusiasts to customize the feel through hand-lubing.
Considering the available information, if you prefer a sharp and bright sound with a smooth and refined typing feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you seek a more neutral sound with a textured and mild typing experience, the Keygeek Raw linear switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that you achieve a satisfying typing experience regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, consider the following guidelines: If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a clacky, high-pitched sound with a silky, polished feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force, a neutral sound profile, and a switch with a unique material blend that provides a slightly textured feel out of the box, then the Keygeek Keygeek Raw might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences in sound and feel when it comes to mechanical keyboard switches.
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