Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Gateron Magnetic Jade
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch for your needs, the Gateron Ink Box Black and Gateron Magnetic Jade offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The Ink Box Black is celebrated for its smooth and creamy feel, providing a typing experience reminiscent of the gentle sound of a spray paint can being shaken; it's characterized by a clacky and high-pitched sound signature, making it ideal for those who enjoy a polished and silky keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Magnetic Jade employs innovative hall effect technology to deliver a bright and clacky auditory output, making it particularly well-suited for users looking to enhance their Wooting Hall Effect keyboard with superior acoustics and overall typing enjoyment. While both switches offer unique benefits—smooth operation versus an upgraded sound profile—each caters to different typing styles and 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
30g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Box Black and Gateron Magnetic Jade switches showcase distinct characteristics in their housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profiles and typing experiences. The Ink Box Black features a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, resulting in a pronounced, high-pitched sound that many users describe as clacky. This material is engineered to offer a lively auditory experience, making every keystroke sound sharp and engaging. In contrast, the Magnetic Jade employs a polycarbonate top housing, which also offers a high-pitched sound but with a sharper and crisper tone. While both switches achieve similar high tonal ranges, the subtle differences in material composition create unique auditory profiles that can influence user preferences based on the desired acoustic experience.
When examining the bottom housings, the Gateron Ink Box Black utilizes the same INK blend as its top housing, ensuring a harmonious sound profile that maintains a relatively high-pitched, yet satisfying tone. This consistency allows users to enjoy a more uniform sound across their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Magnetic Jade's nylon bottom housing introduces a contrasting element; nylon is a classic switch material known for producing a deeper, fuller sound. This cushioning effect comes from the softer nature of nylon, effectively absorbing sound and providing a more resonant auditory experience during bottom-out. This divergence in bottom housing materials is significant, as it splits the sound qualities between two distinct experiences: a pronounced, sharper sound from the Magnetic Jade as a result of its top housing versus the consistent, thin sound profile from the Ink Box Black.
Ultimately, the differences in material between the two switches can greatly impact the overall typing experience. With the Ink Box Black's unified INK blend allowing for a cohesive auditory experience, users may enjoy a more streamlined sound and feel throughout their keyboard interactions. In contrast, the Magnetic Jade's combination of polycarbonate and nylon creates a dynamic range of sound, with clarity and resonance in the top housing, and depth and fullness in the bottom. Even though both switches delve into the higher sound spectrum, the varying materials dictate how these sounds manifest during use, making the choice between them a matter of individual sound preference and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, there is a notable difference in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Ink Box Black requires a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Magnetic Jade is significantly lighter, with an actuation force of just 30 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which can enhance comfort during extensive typing or gaming sessions. This means that while both switches provide a different tactile experience, the Ink Box Black is designed for those who crave a firmer key press, whereas the Magnetic Jade caters to users seeking lighter feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding typing feel and endurance during prolonged use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, we find that the Ink Box Black features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, whereas the Magnetic Jade has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that, while both switches offer relatively short travel distances—suitable for gamers seeking faster response times—the Ink Box Black has that extra millimeter, providing a more substantial feel when pressed. If you prefer a more pronounced keypress, the Ink Box Black would be the better choice due to its greater depth, while those who favor quicker actuation might lean towards the Magnetic Jade for its slightly shallower travel distance. Overall, although the differences are minor, they can result in distinct tactile experiences during use.
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 Gateron Magnetic Jade comes in at $8.00 per 10 switches.
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 switch delivers a unique auditory experience characterized by a smooth and creamy sound profile. The sound has been likened to the shaking of a spray paint can, suggesting a softer tone that doesn't overpower the surrounding environment. In contrast, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch provides a bright and clacky sound that adds a distinct percussive quality to each keystroke, making it especially appealing for those seeking an engaging auditory feedback in their typing experience. This clackiness makes the Magnetic Jade ideal for enthusiasts who prioritize sound in their keyboard setup, especially when upgrading to a Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. However, it’s essential to note that the ultimate sound experience can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycap materials used, regardless of the switches selected.
When it comes to feel, the Ink Box Black is celebrated for its exceptionally silky and polished typing experience. This smoothness enhances the overall sensation of keystrokes, minimizing any resistance during both pressing and releasing keys. Users can expect a refined feel that promotes effortless typing, making it a great choice for those who value a seamless experience. On the other hand, specifics regarding the feel of the Magnetic Jade switch remain unknown in this context, meaning it's difficult to make a direct comparison. Still, the allure of its sound might compensate for any uncertainty in tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Black and Magnetic Jade switches cater to different preferences when it comes to sound and feel. The Ink Box Black stands out for its smooth auditory and tactile qualities, while the Magnetic Jade offers an engaging clackiness that enhances the typing experience. While the feel of the Magnetic Jade remains unspecified, its bright sound will likely attract those who enjoy a lively keyboard environment. Both switches have their unique strengths, providing a diverse range of experiences that can appeal to various mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To conclude, the decision between Gateron Ink Box Black linear switches and Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switches hinges largely on your typing preferences and sound characteristics you appreciate. If you favor a heavier key press with substantial tactile feedback, the Ink Box Black may be the better choice for you. Its smooth, creamy feel offers an exceptionally polished typing experience, complemented by a unique sound reminiscent of a spray paint can, which can add a nice auditory dimension to your typing sessions. On the other hand, if you seek a lighter touch with a more pronounced acoustic profile, the Magnetic Jade switches are likely to suit your needs better. With their bright, clacky sound signature and a medium-light bottom out force, these switches provide an engaging typing experience that not only feels responsive but sounds lively and crisp. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a heavier, smooth feel or a lighter, more expressive sound, both of which bring their own unique benefits to your mechanical keyboard experience.
Mentioned in this article
