Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade). The Ink Box Black is a linear switch, known for its incredibly smooth and creamy feel. Typing on these switches evokes the sound of a spray paint can being shaken, which adds a touch of novelty to the experience. On the other hand, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) is a tactile switch that offers a sharp and distinctive typing feel. The unique blend of PBT top and bottom housing contributes to a rare and premium typing experience. These switches feature a strong downstroke tactile bump, but what sets them apart is the even sharper and stronger upstroke bump, creating a hypertactile sensation. With a medium-heavy feel and an accentuated bottom-out, the Moyu Blacks deliver an impactful typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you the most.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
PBT
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
PBT
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) differ in terms of their sound profiles. The Ink Box Black's proprietary INK blend top housing is described as having a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. In contrast, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade)'s PBT top housing offers a more neutral sound profile that is not very crisp but also not dull. Therefore, when it comes to sound, the Ink Box Black will provide a more distinctive and sharp sound while the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) will offer a more subtle and balanced sound experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) also differ in their sound profiles. The INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Black shares similar characteristics with its top housing, providing a thin and higher-pitched clacky sound. On the other hand, the PBT bottom housing of the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) offers a neutral sound profile. This suggests that when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel, the Ink Box Black will provide a more distinct and high-pitched impact while the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) will offer a more balanced and subtle bottom-out sound.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) housing materials differ in their sound profiles. The Ink Box Black's proprietary INK blend top and bottom housings offer a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade)'s PBT top and bottom housings provide a more neutral sound profile. Although they differ in sound, both switches offer satisfying tactile feedback and are suitable options depending on personal preferences. Whether you choose the Ink Box Black for a sharper and more distinctive sound or the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) for a balanced and subtle sound, both switches will deliver a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. The Ink Box Black has a slightly heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Moyu Black's 50 grams. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Ink Box Black surpasses the Moyu Black with 70 grams compared to 67 grams. Both switches can be considered medium-heavy in terms of force required.
Considering the weight aspect, some individuals prefer lighter switches as it allows them to type for extended periods without fatigue. This feature makes them suitable for work environments or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, there are those who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. These individuals would favor switches with heavier forces.
In terms of actuation force, the Moyu Black requires less force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Ink Box Black. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Ink Box Black requires slightly more force. Therefore, users seeking a lighter actuation force may prefer the Moyu Black, while those desiring a heavier bottom out force may lean towards the Ink Box Black.
Overall, while there are differences in actuation and bottom out forces between the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Everglide Moyu Black tactile switch, both switches fall within the medium-heavy range. Thus, individuals seeking similar results in terms of force requirements for keystrokes will find satisfaction in either switch option.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch, it is clear that there is a difference between the two. The Ink Box Black has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the Moyu Black's 4 mm travel distance. These differences may seem small, but they can have a noticeable impact on the typing or gaming experience.
For those who prefer a more responsive and quick keystroke, the Gateron Ink Box Black with its shorter travel distance would be the better option. This is especially true for gamers who require fast response times in order to perform at their best. On the other hand, the Everglide Moyu Black with its longer travel distance may appeal to individuals who prefer a deeper and more pronounced keystroke. This added depth can provide a sense of satisfaction and a more tactile feel when pressing down on the keys.
Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference. If you prioritize a shorter travel distance for speed and responsiveness, the Gateron Ink Box Black would be the recommended choice. However, if you enjoy a deeper keystroke that provides a more satisfying feel, the Everglide Moyu Black would be the better option. Both switches offer their own unique advantages, so it's important to consider your own typing or gaming preferences when making a decision.
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 Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) has an MSRP of $12.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) for $7.59.
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
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is best known for its smooth and creamy feel, while the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch offers a sharp and distinct tactile feel. In terms of sound, the Ink Box Black produces a clacky and high-pitched sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) has a resonant sound profile that is clean and sharp.
When it comes to feel, the Ink Box Black is described as silky and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience. These switches minimize resistance and offer smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) is accented and sharp, with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) have distinct qualities in both sound and feel. The Ink Box Blacks are smooth, creamy, and offer a clacky and high-pitched sound. They provide a silky and polished feel, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Moyu Blacks have a sharp and distinct tactile feel, with a resonant sound profile. These switches are accented and sharp, offering a medium amount of tactility. If you prefer a smooth and creamy linear switch with a clacky sound, the Ink Box Black is a great choice. If you prefer a tactile switch with a sharp feel and resonant sound, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) is the way to go.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and creamy typing experience with a medium-heavy feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is a great choice. These switches provide a pleasant clacky and high-pitched sound, perfect for those who prefer a sharp and snappy sound profile. Additionally, the silky and polished feel of the Ink Box Black ensures an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience.
On the other hand, if you desire a unique and premium tactile experience, the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch is an excellent option. These switches offer a strong downstroke tactile bump and an even sharper and stronger upstroke bump, resulting in a hypertactile sensation. The Moyu Blacks produce a resonant sound profile, delivering a clean and sharp auditory experience. With their medium-heavy feel and accented sharp tactile feedback, these switches provide a distinctive and impactful typing experience.
Ultimately, your choice between the Gateron Ink Box Black and Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switches will depend on your personal preferences for smoothness, sound, and tactile feedback. Consider how each switch's characteristics align with your typing style and typing preferences to make an informed decision that enhances your overall typing experience.
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