Gateron Ink Box Black vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Box Black and the TTC Neptune both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Ink Box Black is praised for its smooth and creamy feel, with a sound signature reminiscent of a shaking spray paint can. It is described as 'clacky', 'high-pitched', 'silky', and 'polished'. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune stands out with its innovative internal structure that provides a balanced typing experience, combining a smooth glide with a springy resistance akin to chewy delights like mochi or tapioca pearls. Categorized as 'buttery', 'gummy', 'frictionless', 'low-pitched', 'mild', 'muted', 'neutral', 'polished', 'subdued', and 'thocky', the Neptune offers an ultralight feel for swift typing with a refined sound signature. 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
41g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and TTC Neptune switches offer distinct sound profiles and aesthetics. The Ink Box Black utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. In contrast, the Neptune features POM for its top housing, creating a deeper and more muted sound that is incredibly pleasing and unique. This difference in sound profile between the two switches can impact the overall typing experience for users.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Gateron Ink Box Black and TTC Neptune also diverge in their choices. The Ink Box Black uses its proprietary INK blend for the bottom housing as well, maintaining a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that complements the top housing. On the other hand, the Neptune employs polycarbonate for its bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, enhancing the overall typing experience for users who prefer a different tactile feedback.
While the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and TTC Neptune switches offer unique sound profiles and qualities, they both ultimately aim to provide a satisfying typing experience for users. The choice between the INK blend and POM for the top housing, as well as between the INK blend and polycarbonate for the bottom housing, can greatly impact the sound and feel of the switches during typing. Whether you prefer a clacky and higher-pitched sound or a deeper and more muted sound, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch have significant differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. 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. In contrast, the Neptune switch is much lighter with an actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a much lighter option. The weight of a switch is crucial as it can affect typing comfort and duration. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Neptune switch for longer typing sessions, while those looking for a more substantial and tactile typing experience may lean towards the Ink Box Black. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the TTC Neptune linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for users who prioritize speed and responsiveness. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the quick actuation provided by these switches. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be noticeable to most users, as both fall within the shorter end of the spectrum. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of the feel and responsiveness desired in a mechanical keyboard.
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 TTC Neptune has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Neptune for $5.09.
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 switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched qualities, providing a sharp and crisp sound that may be likened to a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune switch offers a unique low-pitched and muted sound profile, creating a softer and quieter typing experience that is reminiscent of a refined ambiance. The Neptune's sound signature is more subdued and thocky, providing a dampened yet satisfying sound with each keystroke.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black switch is renowned for its silky and polished texture, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimized resistance. Conversely, the TTC Neptune switch provides a buttery and gummy feel, giving users a smooth and fluid keystroke experience akin to bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. Both switches have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and seamless key travel for a sleek typing experience.
Overall, while the Gateron Ink Box Black and TTC Neptune switches may differ in their sound and feel characteristics, they both provide a smooth and enjoyable typing experience. Whether you prefer the sharp and clacky sound of the Ink Box Black or the muted and thocky sound of the Neptune, you can expect similar levels of smoothness and responsiveness in both switches. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a clacky, high-pitched sound profile and a silky, polished feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a low-pitched, muted sound profile and a buttery, gummy, or frictionless feel, the TTC Neptune linear switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation force, sound, and feel. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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