Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Everglide Lightning Silver V3
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, one popular choice for a linear switch is the Gateron Ink Box Black, known for its incredibly smooth and creamy feel while typing. The sound signature of the Ink Box Black is often described as resembling a spray paint can being shaken, adding a unique auditory experience to your typing sessions. On the other hand, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3, also a linear switch, offers a clacky and high-pitched sound signature along with a silky and seamless typing experience. A standout feature of the Lightning Silver V3 is its light diffuser, which enhances RGB illumination for a vibrant keyboard setup. While both switches share qualities of being clacky, high-pitched, and silky, they each bring a unique touch to the table. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3, it is clear that both switches use different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Ink Box Black utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housings, resulting in a pointed and high-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the Lightning Silver V3 features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, the materials used in their housings play a significant role in shaping the overall auditory experience of each switch.
One key difference between the two switches lies in the material used for their top housings. The INK blend used in the Ink Box Black results in a sound profile that is pointed and relatively high-pitched, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Lightning Silver V3 produces a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially suitable for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the Lightning Silver V3. Despite these differences, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, with the housing materials contributing to their distinct sound profiles.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall sound and feel of each switch, it becomes evident that the bottom housing has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This means that the specific qualities of the INK blend or polycarbonate material used in each housing will be more pronounced in different aspects of typing on these switches. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience, with the housing materials playing a crucial role in shaping these characteristics.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, it is evident that the Lightning Silver V3 is the lighter option. The Lightning Silver V3 has a lower actuation force of 48 grams and a lower bottom out force of 60 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black has a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a higher bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial and stronger push feel. Both switches offer a medium weight overall, but the Ink Box Black is on the heavier side compared to the Lightning Silver V3. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, we can see that the Ink Box Black has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the Lightning Silver V3's 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for faster response times. The shorter travel distance of the Lightning Silver V3 may provide a slightly quicker key press compared to the Ink Box Black. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance to feel more abrupt, while others may prefer the additional depth provided by the longer travel distance of the Ink Box Black. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for responsiveness versus key depth.
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 Everglide Lightning Silver V3 has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lightning Silver V3 for $4.10.
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, both the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switches are described as clacky and high-pitched, providing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. This means that if you prefer a switch with a more percussive and bright sound profile, either option would be suitable. Keep in mind that the actual sound produced can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard case and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Ink Box Black is noted for its silky and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and refined key press with minimized resistance. On the other hand, the Lightning Silver V3 is also mentioned for its silky feel, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience. Both switches aim to enhance the overall smoothness of typing, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable typing session.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switches offer similar subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. This means that whether you choose one over the other, you can expect to achieve comparable results in terms of typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference and specific needs for your keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch or the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, it really comes down to your personal preferences. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a smooth and creamy typing experience with a sound reminiscent of a shaken spray paint can, then the Gateron Ink Box Black may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a clacky and high-pitched sound signature, and want to add a vibrant touch to your keyboard setup with a light diffuser, then the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 could be the switch for you. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you when making your decision.
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