Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Durock Koala
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Durock Koala switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Durock Koala. The Ink Box Black is a linear switch, known for its incredibly smooth and creamy feel with a sound signature reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the Durock Koala is a tactile switch, offering a stepped tactility that provides a pronounced bump without spanning the entire keystroke. Those who prefer a bit of resonance without being overly loud may find the Koala appealing. While the Ink Box Black offers a 'clacky' and 'high-pitched' experience, the Koala is described as 'polished', 'low-pitched', and 'stiff'. Both switches have their unique qualities and deciding between them depends on personal preferences. 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
67g
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Durock Koala, we can see that both switches have unique characteristics. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Black provides a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the Koala's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiff nature. While both materials contribute to a clear and resonant sound, the INK blend offers a slightly softer sound compared to the more crisp sound produced by the polycarbonate.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the differences between the two switches become even more apparent. The INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Black shares similarities with its top housing, providing a relatively high-pitched sound profile that is also described as clacky. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the Koala produces a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature. The nylon material absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the INK blend.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Durock Koala will come down to personal preference in sound profile. While both switches offer unique qualities in their housing materials, the INK blend and polycarbonate materials will provide a slightly sharper and crisper sound compared to the softer and fuller sound produced by the nylon material. Ultimately, users looking for a clacky sound profile may lean towards the Ink Box Black, while those seeking a deeper and fuller sound may prefer the Durock Koala.
Weight
The actuation force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is 60 grams, while the Durock Koala tactile switch does not specify an actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the Gateron switch requires 70 grams, whereas the Durock Koala switch has a bottom out force of 67 grams. This makes the Gateron switch slightly heavier in both actuation and bottom out forces. For those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming for extended periods, the Durock Koala switch may be the preferable option. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black switch would be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision 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, which is shorter than the Durock Koala tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Ink Box Black may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Koala may provide a more satisfying keystroke depth for some users. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can find the switch that best suits their needs.
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 Durock Koala has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Koala for $4.21.
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 produces a clacky and high-pitched sound, reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the Durock Koala tactile switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various purposes. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can complement different preferences depending on the user's liking for sharper or more mellow tones.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black switch offers a silky and polished typing experience, featuring an exceptionally smooth and refined finish that minimizes resistance and enhances overall typing comfort. Meanwhile, the Durock Koala tactile switch also boasts a polished feel, along with accented and stepped tactility, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming. This difference in tactile feedback offers users a choice between a smoother typing experience with the Ink Box Black and a more pronounced tactile bump with the Koala switch.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. While the Ink Box Black provides a clacky sound and silky smooth feel, the Koala switch offers a low-pitched sound and accented stepped tactility. Both switches are known for their quality and performance, providing users with a range of options to suit their individual typing preferences and needs. Ultimately, whether you prefer a linear switch like the Ink Box Black or a tactile switch like the Koala, you can expect a top-tier typing experience with either choice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you value a smooth and creamy typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, along with a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, then the Ink Box Black may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a pronounced bump that doesn't span the entire keystroke, along with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a low-pitched or neutral sound profile, the Durock Koala might be the better choice. Consider your typing style, sound preferences, and desired tactile feedback when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best suits your needs.
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