Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Cherry MX Brown

Overview

When it comes to choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come up for comparison are the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Cherry MX Brown. The Gateron Ink Box Black is a linear switch, while the Cherry MX Brown is a tactile switch. Each switch offers its own unique characteristics and advantages. The Ink Box Blacks are widely recognized for their incredibly smooth and creamy feel, accompanied by a distinctive sound reminiscent of shaking a spray paint can. In contrast, the Cherry MX Browns are best described as subtle, providing a relatively light typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback. While these general pointers give a glimpse into the qualities of each switch, it is important to delve deeper into their nuances in order to make an informed decision on the best switch for your specific needs and preferences.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

Cherry MX Brown Tactile

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

$4.00 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Cherry MX Brown switches offer distinct characteristics that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The Ink Box Black utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housing. Known for its pointed yet not overly sharp sound profile, the INK blend produces a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound, often described as clacky. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown incorporates a nylon top and bottom housing. Nylon is renowned as a classic switch housing material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound. With its softer plastic composition, the nylon housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the INK blend.

While the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Cherry MX Brown switches differ, they contribute distinct qualities to the overall switch experience. When pressing down on the switches, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel. As a result, the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Black imparts its characteristic pointed and high-pitched sound profile, creating a clacky sensation. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the MX Brown produces a deeper sound profile, adding to the overall typing experience.

On the release of a key, the top housing becomes more pronounced in determining the sound generated. The INK blend top housing of the Gateron Ink Box Black contributes to a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound without being overly sharp. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Cherry MX Brown offers a softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. This creates a rounder and duller sound when the key is released, providing a distinct auditory feedback.

In summary, the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Cherry MX Brown differ in their housing materials, resulting in contrasting sound profiles. The INK blend housing of the Ink Box Black produces a satisfying clacky sound, characterized by a higher-pitched and thin profile. On the other hand, the nylon housing of the MX Brown evokes a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition. While both switches offer unique auditory experiences, the Ink Box Black's INK blend and the MX Brown's nylon housing materials may both provide satisfactory results depending on individual preferences.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, we can observe some similarities and differences. In terms of weight, the Ink Box Black is heavier than the MX Brown. The actuation force of the Ink Box Black is 60 grams, while the MX Brown requires 45 grams to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, when it comes to bottoming out, the Ink Box Black has a force of 70 grams, while the MX Brown measures at 55 grams.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the MX Brown switch may be more suitable. With its lower actuation and bottom out forces, typing for longer periods of time can be accomplished without feeling fatigued. This makes it an excellent option for individuals who frequently use their keyboards for work or engage in prolonged gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black offers a stronger push feel, providing a more substantial typing experience. This heavier actuation and bottom out force can be appealing to those seeking a more robust and deliberate keystroke.

Overall, while the Ink Box Black and MX Brown switches differ in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, the choice ultimately boils down to personal preference. Both switches offer unique typing experiences, allowing individuals to select the option that aligns with their desired weight and typing style.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, it is clear that they have different distances. The Ink Box Black has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the MX Brown has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, the MX Brown falls within the standard range, while the Ink Box Black is slightly shorter than the norm. This shorter travel distance of the Ink Box Black may appeal to gamers who value faster response times. On the other hand, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to be too abrupt and prefer a switch with a longer travel distance like the MX Brown. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences, with the Ink Box Black offering a shorter travel distance for heightened responsiveness, and the MX Brown providing a longer travel distance for a more substantial feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound. When typing on these switches, you can expect a sharp and snappy sound with a crisp and bright tone. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound. The audio feedback of these switches is deeper and richer, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.

When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is often described as silky and polished. These switches provide an exceptionally smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The overall feel is enhanced with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch is known for its textured feel. These switches have noticeable friction when pressed, which some users prefer for a more tactile typing experience.

In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities. The Ink Box Black provides a clacky and high-pitched sound with a silky and polished feel, while the MX Brown offers a bassy and low-pitched sound with a textured feel. Depending on personal preference, one may be drawn to the smoother and quieter typing experience of the Ink Box Black or the more tactile and audible feedback of the MX Brown. However, it is important to consider other factors such as board and keycap choices, as they can influence the overall sound and feel of the switches.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you're looking for a medium-heavy switch with a smooth and creamy feel, as well as a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, then the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light switch with a subtle and gentle tactility, along with a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, then the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch would be the better option. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch. Whether you value smoothness and a sharp sound or subtlety and a deeper sound, both switches offer quality characteristics that can enhance your typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more

Cherry MX Brown Tactile

$4.00 per 10

Learn more