Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Cherry MX Black
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Cherry MX Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Cherry MX Black. The Gateron Ink Box Black is a linear switch that is known for its incredibly smooth and creamy feel, providing a satisfying typing experience. The sound signature of this switch is often described as clacky, high-pitched, silky, and polished. On the other hand, Cherry MX Black switches have been perfected by Cherry with their new Hyperglide tooling, offering a classic textured smoothness. Typing on these switches produces a deep sound profile that many users find familiar and satisfying. The MX Black switch is characterized as low-pitched, textured, and stiff. Both switches have their own unique qualities and benefits, making it important to delve deeper into their specifics to determine the best fit for your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Cherry MX Black have distinct characteristics that contribute to their sound profiles. The Ink Box Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. This results in a satisfying, clacky sound that is not overly sharp. In contrast, the Cherry MX Black utilizes a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Similarly, the bottom housings of these switches also differ in their effects on sound. The Gateron Ink Box Black's proprietary INK blend bottom housing complements the top housing, contributing to the overall sound profile. With its pointed and high-pitched characteristics, it enhances the clacky sound when the switch is pressed down. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black's nylon bottom housing adds to the deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound. The combination of these housing materials provides a unique auditory experience for typists and gamers alike.
While there are differences between the housing materials of these switches, it's worth noting that they share some similarities. Both the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Cherry MX Black offer a satisfying sound experience, albeit with different nuances. The Ink Box Black's proprietary INK blend top housing produces a thinner, higher-pitched sound, while the Cherry MX Black's nylon top housing elicits a deeper sound. However, both materials contribute to an overall pleasing sound profile. Additionally, as mentioned earlier, when it comes to the bottom housings, both switches provide qualities that enhance the sound when pressed down, adding a layer of consistency to the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. Both switches have an actuation force of 60 grams, ensuring a consistent force required to trigger a keystroke. This similarity means that users can expect similar results in terms of sensitivity and responsiveness. However, the differences become apparent when considering the bottom out force. The Gateron Ink Box Black has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which provides a medium-heavy typing experience, while the Cherry MX Black has a higher bottom out force of 80 grams, resulting in a heavier and more substantial feel.
The weight of a switch is a crucial factor to consider, as it can greatly impact typing comfort and endurance. Those who prefer a lighter switch often find it more comfortable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. In this case, the Gateron Ink Box Black would be a suitable choice with its lighter bottom out force. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and desire a more substantial typing experience may opt for switches with heavier forces. The Cherry MX Black would align with their preferences, as its heavier bottom out force provides the desired tactile feedback and durability.
Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer a similar actuation force, ensuring responsiveness, but differ in their bottom out force. Whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience, both the Gateron Ink Box Black and Cherry MX Black provide viable options to meet individual needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, it is clear that the Ink Box Black has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the MX Black has a longer travel distance of 4 mm.
Traditionally, a travel distance of 4 mm is considered the norm, while 3 mm is the shallowest. However, in recent times, shorter travel distances have become more popular, particularly among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you value responsiveness, opting for the shorter travel distance of the Ink Box Black would be ideal. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt, preferring a switch with a longer travel distance. In this case, the MX Black with its 4 mm travel distance would provide a more substantial depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Cherry MX Black offer different experiences. The Ink Box Black is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This sound can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the MX Black has a low-pitched sound profile, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. It provides a deeper sound when typing. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors, such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles, so choosing one depends on your preference for a sharp or deep sound.
In terms of feel, the Ink Box Black and the MX Black also have distinct qualities. The Ink Box Black is known for its silky and polished feel. These switches offer an exceptionally smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The polished finish results in a sleek and refined typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the MX Black is described as textured and stiff. The textured switches have noticeable friction when pressed, which is preferred by some users. Additionally, the MX Black requires a higher amount of force to actuate and/or bottom-out compared to other switches. If you prefer a smoother, friction-free experience and don't mind a stiffer feel, the MX Black might be a good choice.
Taking all the available information into account, the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Cherry MX Black provide different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Box Black is clacky with a silky and polished feel, offering a sharp and snappy sound while providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the MX Black has a low-pitched sound profile with a textured and stiff feel, resulting in a deeper sound when typing and noticeable friction when pressing the keys. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on individual preferences for sound and feel. If you prefer a sharper sound and smoother feel, go for the Ink Box Black. If you prefer a deeper sound and don't mind a textured and stiffer feel, the MX Black might be more suitable.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, it's important to consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly lighter switch with a bottom out force of 70 grams, the Ink Box Black may be the better choice for you. These switches are known for their smooth and creamy feel, with a sound profile reminiscent of a shaking spray paint can. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier switch with an 80 gram bottom out force, the MX Black may be more suitable. These switches offer a classic textured smoothness and produce a deep sound profile when typing. Keep in mind that the Ink Box Black has a clacky and high-pitched sound, while the MX Black has a low-pitched sound. Similarly, the Ink Box Black offers a silky and polished feel, while the MX Black has a textured and stiff feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel.
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