Gateron Ink Box Black vs. HMX Lotus
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the HMX Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Ink Box Black and the HMX Lotus. The Gateron Ink Box Black is a linear switch that is highly praised for its incredibly smooth and creamy feel, with a unique sound signature likened to a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus, also a linear switch, stands out for its medium weight of 50g bottom out and bright, resonant sound, offering a super bouncy feeling with each keystroke. While the Ink Box Black is categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', and 'Polished', the Lotus does not have specific categories. 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
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the HMX Lotus switches offer distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Black provides a pointed and higher-pitched sound, resulting in a clacky typing experience. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Lotus produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition. While both materials offer satisfying typing experiences, the differences in sound profiles give users the option to choose based on their preferred sound profile.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches maintain their unique characteristics. The INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Black contributes to the switch's pointed and high-pitched sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Lotus adds to the switch's deeper and fuller sound, creating a distinct tactile sensation when typing. These differences in bottom housing materials further differentiate the two switches, allowing users to select based on their preferred sound and feel during typing sessions.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the HMX Lotus switches play a crucial role in determining the sound profile and tactile experience of each switch. While the INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Black and the nylon top housing of the Lotus offer unique sound profiles, the same can be said for the bottom housings. Whether users prefer a clacky and higher-pitched sound or a deeper and fuller sound, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience based on their individual housing materials. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, it is evident that the Lotus switch is lighter in both respects. The Ink Box Black has a medium-heavy actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, whereas the Lotus has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. The difference in weight between the two switches caters to different preferences in typing experience. Some may prefer the lighter actuation and bottom out force of the Lotus for extended typing sessions, while others may favor the heavier forces of the Ink Box Black for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for typing feel and comfort.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance, making them suitable for those who prioritize quick response times. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the shorter travel distance of these switches. However, the slight variation between the two distances may not be significantly noticeable in practice. Ultimately, the decision between these switches may come down to personal preference in terms of how much depth and responsiveness you prefer in a keyboard switch.
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 HMX Lotus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus for $2.99.
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 profile, reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus linear switch does not have a specific sound description provided. Depending on personal preference, if a sharp, crisp sound is preferred, the Ink Box Black may be the better choice. However, it is important to consider that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Ink Box Black is described as having a silky and polished feel, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The HMX Lotus switch does not have a specific feel description provided. If a smooth and refined typing experience is desired, the Ink Box Black may be the preferred option. Like sound, the feel of a switch can be influenced by factors such as factory lubing and materials used.
Overall, while the Gateron Ink Box Black and HMX Lotus switches have their unique sound and feel characteristics, it is important to note that individual preferences play a significant role in choosing a switch. If smoothness and a clacky, high-pitched sound are desired, the Ink Box Black may be the preferred choice. However, if a bouncy feeling and bright, resonant sound are more appealing, the Lotus switch could be the better option. Experimenting with different switches on various keyboards can help determine the most suitable option for each individual's typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that are sure to enhance any mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose Gateron Ink Box Black linear switches or HMX Lotus linear switches, you should think about your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, along with a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, as well as a silky and polished feel, then the Ink Box Black may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, with a bright and resonant sound profile, as well as a bouncy feeling with no specific sound or feel descriptors provided for the Lotus switches, then the HMX Lotus linear switches may be the better option for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference based on bottom out force, sound profile, and feel.
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