Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Durock Mamba
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Durock Mamba switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Durock Mamba, both of which fall under the linear switch category. The Ink Box Blacks are renowned for their incredibly smooth and creamy performance, evoking a sound similar to a shaken spray paint can. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', and 'Polished', these switches deliver a unique tactile experience. On the other hand, the Mamba switches pay homage to the legendary Kobe Bryant, offering a gliding typing sensation paired with a rich and creamy auditory experience. Categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished', these switches provide a different but equally satisfying typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you choose the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Ly
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Durock Mamba switches both offer unique sound profiles. The Ink Box Black's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, giving it a satisfying clacky feel. Similarly, the Mamba's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing offers a pleasant sound profile that is neither too sharp nor too dull. While the Ink Box Black leans towards a more clacky sound, the Mamba provides a slightly brighter tone.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Ink Box Black utilizes the same proprietary INK blend as its top housing. As a result, it maintains its pointed and high-pitched sound profile, contributing to a consistent clacky experience throughout the entire keystroke. On the other hand, the Mamba features a POM (polyoxymethylene) bottom housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound. This difference in bottom housing materials gives the Mamba a distinct auditory experience compared to the Ink Box Black.
Although the top and bottom housings of the two switches differ, they both play a significant role in the sound produced. When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing affect the bottom-out sound and feel. In the case of the Mamba, the POM bottom housing contributes to a deeper sound and potentially a more cushioned keystroke. Conversely, the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Ink Box Black and the Mamba have distinct housing materials, they both offer unique sound profiles that add to the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Ink Box Black has an actuation force of 60 grams, meaning that a moderate amount of force is needed to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the Mamba is currently unavailable, making it difficult to make a direct comparison. However, it is important to note that both switches have a bottom out force of 60 grams, which indicates that pressing the keys all the way down requires the same amount of force.
Considering weight as a factor, the Ink Box Black may be seen as the heavier option, as its bottom out force exceeds its actuation force by 10 grams. This additional weight can provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Mamba's actuation force is unknown, making it uncertain if it leans towards a lighter or heavier switch.
For individuals who enjoy lighter switches, the Ink Box Black and the Mamba may offer similar results since their bottom out force is the same. This lighter weight can be advantageous for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions, as it reduces fatigue and allows for comfortable use over time. Ultimately, the choice between the Ink Box Black and the Mamba will depend on personal preferences in terms of actuation force and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The Ink Box Black has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Mamba has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both of these switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. However, it is important to note that shorter travel distances can sometimes feel more abrupt, which may not be preferred by everyone. For those who prefer a more substantial key press, the Ink Box Black with its slightly longer travel distance could be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness.
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 Mamba has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mamba for $5.17.
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 when pressed. The sound is sharp, crisp, and percussive, resembling the sound of a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba linear switch has a more neutral sound profile. It provides a moderate sound that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced keyboard user. Additionally, the Mamba switch can deliver a thocky sound, which is deep, rich, and satisfying. It produces a soft "knock" or a deep "thud" when the key is pressed and released. It's important to note that the sound of the switches can also be affected by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch offers a silky and polished typing experience. These switches are exceptionally smooth and minimize resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The typing feel is enhanced by the overall smoothness of the switch. The Durock Mamba linear switch, on the other hand, provides a mild and polished typing experience. It offers a gentle typing feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The Mamba switch's qualities stand in a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable for most users. Both switches have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Considering all the available information, the Gateron Ink Box Black and Durock Mamba linear switches have distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Box Black offers a clacky and high-pitched sound along with a silky and polished typing experience. It provides a smooth and creamy auditory experience. The Mamba switch, on the other hand, has a neutral sound profile suitable for most intents and purposes. It offers a gliding typing sensation and a rich and creamy auditory experience. While the two switches have their unique qualities, if you prefer a smooth typing experience with reduced resistance, either switch can provide similar results thanks to their polished finish. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for sound and typing feel.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you're looking for a medium-heavy switch with a smooth and creamy feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is the way to go. The 70-gram bottom out force provides a satisfying typing experience, and the switch is described as silky and polished, offering enhanced smoothness and reduced friction. Additionally, the Ink Box Black produces a clacky and high-pitched sound, adding crispness and brightness to your typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium force switch with a gliding typing sensation and rich auditory experience, the Durock Mamba linear switch is a great choice. With its 60-gram bottom out force and mild feel, it offers a gentle and approachable typing experience for most users. The Mamba switch also features a polished finish for smooth key travel, and its sound profile is described as neutral and thocky, providing a satisfying "thud" or "knock" when pressed and released. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Box Black and Durock Mamba comes down to your preference for key force, typing feel, and sound signature.
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