Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Gateron Melodic stand out as top contenders in their respective categories. The Ink Box Black, a linear switch, is renowned for its smooth and creamy feel, with a sound reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the Melodic, a clicky switch, offers a unique experience by combining a classic clicky sound with smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems for a buttery and invigorating feel. Each switch has its own set of characteristics and advantages, making them both appealing options depending on individual 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
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
4.00 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Gateron Melodic, we see that the Ink Box Black features a proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the Melodic uses polycarbonate for the top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the Melodic switch leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency. This contrast shows how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the sound and feel of a mechanical switch.
However, when we look at the bottom housing materials of the two switches, we see another point of differentiation. The Ink Box Black utilizes the same proprietary INK blend for the bottom housing, contributing to its high-pitched and clacky sound profile. In contrast, the Melodic features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to nylon's ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. The differences in bottom housing materials between the two switches showcase how subtle changes in material can impact the overall typing experience.
Overall, the housing materials used in the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Gateron Melodic play a crucial role in shaping the sound and feel of these mechanical switches. While the INK blend top and bottom housings in the Ink Box Black create a consistent, high-pitched, and clacky sound profile, the polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings in the Melodic offer a sharper, crisper sound with a deeper, fuller feel. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience, albeit with distinct characteristics attributed to their housing materials. Both switches are designed to offer a unique typing feel that enthusiasts can appreciate, albeit with different sound profiles depending on the material used for their housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, there are clear differences to consider. The Ink Box Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the Melodic clicky switch has an unknown actuation force but a lighter bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a more medium option. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Melodic switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Ink Box Black may be preferable for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of the two switches cater to different preferences, offering options for users seeking either a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it is clear that the Melodic switch has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Ink Box Black's 3.6 mm. The Melodic clicky switch offers a slightly deeper keypress experience, which may be preferred by some users who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black linear switch provides a slightly shorter travel distance, making it ideal for those who prioritize a faster response time. Both switches offer distinct benefits based on individual preferences, with the Melodic switch catering to users who enjoy a more pronounced keypress sensation, while the Ink Box Black switch appeals to those seeking a quicker and more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress feel.
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 Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 has a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, reminiscent of a crisp and sharp spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offers a resonant and crunchy sound, like stepping on piles of autumn leaves, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Ink Box Black leaning towards a sharper sound and the Melodic offering a more immersive auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is described as silky and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch is characterized as buttery and invigorating, offering a seamless and uniform typing sensation with pronounced feedback and snappy feel. Both switches excel in providing a smooth and immersive typing experience, with the Ink Box Black focusing on smoothness and minimal resistance, while the Melodic offers a more reactive and invigorating feel.
Overall, both the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the Ink Box Black provides a clacky and high-pitched sound with a silky and polished feel, the Melodic offers a resonant and crunchy sound with a buttery and invigorating feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and typing experience, but both switches are sure to deliver exceptional quality and performance for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and creamy typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch would be a great choice for you. The clacky and high-pitched sound profile of the Ink Box Black can add a unique touch to your typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more traditional clicky switch with a medium bottom out force and a resonant, crunchy sound profile, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch might be the better option for you. The Melodic switch offers a buttery and invigorating typing feel that can enhance your overall typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your preference for sound, feel, and bottom out force.
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