Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry offer distinct experiences for users with differing preferences. The Ink Box Black is best known for its incredibly smooth and creamy feel, providing a satisfying typing experience. Its sound signature, reminiscent of a shaken spray paint can, offers a unique and memorable auditory feedback. Categorized as clacky, high-pitched, silky, and polished, this switch appeals to those who prioritize a smooth and sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry stands out for its sharp tactile bump, making it perfect for individuals who prefer a more pronounced typing feel. While typing, users will notice a lower-than-average sound frequency, which is just a touch deeper than average but not "thocky." This switch is categorized as snappy, buttery, low-pitched, textured, resonant, invigorating, and stiff. Both switches have their merits, providing users with a range of options to suit their typing preferences. However, let's dive deeper beyond generalities to better understand which switch would be the best choice for each individual.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry Tactile

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron Ink Box Black and Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches differ in terms of their housing materials. The Ink Box Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing, while the Blueberry utilizes a POM top housing. These materials contribute to distinct sound profiles when typing. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Black produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, which is often described as "clacky." In comparison, the POM top housing of the Blueberry creates a deeper and more muted sound. Therefore, if you prefer a sharper and clickier sound, the Ink Box Black would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper and more subdued typing experience, the Blueberry would be more fitting.

In terms of the bottom housing, the Ink Box Black employs the same proprietary INK blend as its top counterpart. This translates to a similar pointed and high-pitched sound profile when bottoming out the keys. Conversely, the Blueberry features a POM bottom housing, which contributes to its overall sound profile. With a deeper and more muted sound, the Blueberry's bottom housing provides a contrast to the INK blend of the Ink Box Black. Depending on your preference, you can select a switch with either a clacky and sharp bottom-out sound (Ink Box Black) or a softer and deeper bottom-out sound (Blueberry).

Overall, the choice between the Gateron Ink Box Black and Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry depends on the sound preferences you have for your keyboard. If you desire a more clacky and higher-pitched typing sound, the Ink Box Black with its INK blend top and bottom housing will be a suitable option. However, if you prefer a deeper and more muted sound while typing, the Blueberry with its POM top and bottom housing would be a better choice. Ultimately, both switches offer unique sound profiles and the decision comes down to personal preference and typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Ink Box Black has an actuation force of 60 grams, slightly lighter than the Blueberry's actuation force of 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Blueberry requires a heavier force of 80 grams, while the Ink Box Black requires 70 grams. This makes the Blueberry switch slightly heavier overall.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Ink Box Black may be preferred as its actuation force is lower, allowing for effortless keystrokes. Additionally, the bottom out force of 70 grams provides a satisfying tactile feedback without being too heavy. On the other hand, the Blueberry switch offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation force of 55 grams, providing a stronger push feel. The higher bottom out force of 80 grams gives users a satisfying tactile response while requiring a bit more force to fully press down.

Both switches offer their own advantages based on personal preference. Those who enjoy extended typing or gaming sessions may appreciate the lighter actuation force of the Ink Box Black for reduced fatigue. Meanwhile, users who prefer a more substantial typing experience may find the higher actuation and bottom out forces of the Blueberry switch to be more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and typing style.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, it is evident that the NovelKeys Blueberry has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Ink Box Black has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The difference may seem negligible, but it can actually have an impact on your typing experience. Generally, a longer travel distance provides a more satisfying and deep keystroke, making it suitable for those who prefer a more substantial feel. On the other hand, a shorter travel distance is often favored by gamers seeking faster response times, as it requires less finger movement to register a keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Gateron Ink Box Black and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry offer distinct subjective qualities when it comes to sound and feel.

Starting with sound, the Ink Box Black switches can be described as clacky and high-pitched. When pressed, they produce a sharp and crisp sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. This sound profile is ideal for those who prefer a more vibrant and sharp auditory experience. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry switches have a lower-pitched sound frequency. They offer a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is slightly deeper than average but not "thocky." This sound profile is perfect for individuals who enjoy a smoother and more immersive auditory experience. However, it's crucial to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

Moving on to feel, the Ink Box Black switches provide a silky and polished typing experience. They offer exceptional smoothness and minimize resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This results in an overall sleek and refined typing sensation. Conversely, the NovelKeys Blueberry switches offer a snappy and invigorating feel. The sharp tactile bump in these switches makes each keystroke very responsive, creating a lively and immersive typing experience. Additionally, the Blueberry switches also provide a buttery and textured feel. They offer seamless and uniform typing sensations, with noticeable texture for those who prefer it. However, the overall feel of a switch can also be influenced by personal preference and individual typing style.

In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Black and Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches offer contrasting subjective qualities in terms of both sound and feel. The Ink Box Black switches provide a clacky and high-pitched sound with a silky and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Blueberry switches have a lower-pitched and resonant sound with a snappy, invigorating, and occasionally textured feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics, catering to different preferences. However, it's important to consider personal taste and factors such as keyboard board and keycaps when selecting the most suitable switch for an individual's typing needs.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you're in the market for a medium-heavy switch with a smooth and creamy feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is a solid choice. These switches offer a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, which can be ideal if you prefer a crisp and bright sound. Additionally, the Ink Box Black has a silky and polished typing experience, minimizing resistance and providing an overall smooth feel.

On the other hand, if you're looking for a heavy switch with a sharp tactile bump, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch is a great option. These switches have a lower-than-average sound frequency, giving you a deeper but not "thocky" sound. They provide a unique low-pitched and resonant sound profile, enhancing your auditory experience while typing.

In terms of feel, the NovelKeys Blueberry offers a snappy and invigorating typing sensation. The switches are super responsive and provide pronounced feedback, making your typing experience feel more alive. They also have a buttery keystroke experience, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation.

Ultimately, your choice between the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch will depend on your preferences for key weight, sound profile, and typing experience. Consider how heavy you want your switches to be, whether you prefer a clacky or low-pitched sound, and if you prioritize a silky and polished feel or a snappy and invigorating one.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more

Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry Tactile

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

Learn more