Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Dareu Mahjong
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Dareu Mahjong switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Dareu Mahjong are two options that stand out. The Gateron Ink Box Black is a linear switch that is best known for its incredibly smooth and creamy feel, reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. It has a 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', and 'Polished' sound signature. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong, also a linear switch, stands out with its distinctive green and white color scheme, offering a unique visual appeal. The Mahjong switches provide a lively, poppy sound and an effortless typing experience, with a 'Bouncy', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Polished' categorization. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that may appeal to different preferences and needs. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
POK
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
The Gateron Ink Box Black and Dareu Mahjong both have unique top housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Black produces a thin, clacky sound that is relatively high-pitched but not overly sharp. In contrast, the POK top housing of the Mahjong is known for being smooth, clacky, and extremely durable. While the Ink Box Black offers a more pointed sound, the Mahjong's POK material provides a smoother and more well-rounded sound experience.
The bottom housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and Dareu Mahjong also differ in composition and sound profile. The INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Black mirrors the characteristics of its top housing, offering a thin and higher-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Mahjong contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This results in a sound that is more dull and round compared to the sharper sound of the Ink Box Black.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and Dareu Mahjong differ in composition and sound profiles, both switches offer unique typing experiences. The INK blend top and bottom housing of the Ink Box Black provide a consistent thin and clacky sound throughout keystrokes. In comparison, the POK top and nylon bottom housing of the Mahjong create a smoother, rounder sound profile that is both pleasing to the ears and durable for long-term use. Whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound or a deeper, fuller sound, both switches offer quality housing materials that cater to different sound preferences.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a higher actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. The bottom out force of the Ink Box Black is also heavier at 70 grams, while the Mahjong's bottom out force is unknown. The difference in actuation and bottom out forces means that the typing experience on the Ink Box Black will feel more substantial and require a bit more force compared to the Mahjong switch, which may be preferred by those who like a lighter touch. Both switches offer a unique typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the Dareu Mahjong linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches are considered to have shorter travel distances, as the most traditional distance is 4.0 mm. Gamers tend to prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, making both of these options appealing for gaming purposes. The slight difference of 0.2 mm between the two switches may not be very noticeable to the average user, but those who are more sensitive to the feel of a key press may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Black for a more substantial key press sensation. Ultimately, both switches offer a shorter travel distance which can be beneficial for quick and responsive typing or gaming.
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 Dareu Mahjong has an MSRP of $8.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mahjong for $5.79.
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 switches are known for their clacky and high-pitched sound profile, reminiscent of a sharp and snappy noise similar to a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong switches offer a more neutral sound experience, with a moderate actuation force requirement and sound profile suitable for various purposes. Depending on your preference for sound, the Ink Box Black switches may provide a more distinct and crisp auditory feedback compared to the Mahjong switches' more moderate sound profile.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Ink Box Black switches are praised for their silky and polished typing experience, offering exceptionally smooth key presses and minimized resistance when typing. Conversely, the Dareu Mahjong switches are described as bouncy and mild, providing a spring-like feedback and a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. Both switches also feature a polished finish for smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing feel.
Considering the available information, it is evident that the Gateron Ink Box Black and Dareu Mahjong switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. Those who prefer a clacky and high-pitched sound with a silky and polished typing experience may lean towards the Ink Box Black switches, while individuals seeking a more neutral sound profile and a bouncy, mild typing sensation might be more inclined towards the Dareu Mahjong switches. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and typing feel, as both options provide unique characteristics that cater to different needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing experience. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth, creamy typing feel with a clacky and high-pitched sound, the Ink Box Black may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a unique green and white color scheme, a lively and poppy sound signature, and a bouncy and polished typing feel, the Mahjong switch could be the better option. Consider your typing preferences and the characteristics of each switch to make an informed decision on which one suits you best. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience.
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