Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to consider the factors that make each switch unique and suited to different preferences. Two popular linear switches on the market are the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream. The Ink Box Blacks are renowned for their incredibly smooth and creamy feel, delivering a satisfying typing experience. They have a distinctive clacky, high-pitched sound signature that resembles the shaking of a spray paint can. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream switches offer a slightly weightier linear typing experience, with a deep and resonant sound profile that adds an extra layer of satisfaction to your keystrokes. Described as buttery and low-pitched, these switches have a textured feel that can invigorate your typing sessions. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches differ in terms of sound profile and overall feel. The Ink Box Black's proprietary INK blend top housing offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, which is described as clacky. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profile means that users who prefer a sharper and more prominent sound might lean towards the Ink Box Black, while those who prefer a quieter and deeper sound might favor the NovelKeys Cream.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the two switches also show differences in sound profile. The INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Black shares the same characteristics as its top housing, producing a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound. In contrast, the POM bottom housing of the NovelKeys Cream contributes to a deeper and more muted sound experience. Therefore, users who value consistency in sound throughout key presses may find the Ink Box Black appealing, while those who appreciate varying sound profiles between pressing and releasing a key may prefer the NovelKeys Cream.
It is important to note that the impact of the housing materials differs depending on whether it is the top or bottom housing. Pressing down on the switch allows users to feel the qualities of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and overall tactile feel. Conversely, the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, users who prioritize the feel of a switch and the sound it produces upon release may find the characteristics of the bottom housing more important. However, if a user desires a consistent and coherent sound profile across the entire pressing and releasing process, the top housing will play a more crucial role. In both cases, the Ink Box Black and the NovelKeys Cream offer distinct qualities in their respective housing materials that cater to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, we find some similarities and differences. The Gateron Ink Box Black has a slightly heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the NovelKeys Cream's 55 grams, making the Cream slightly lighter in this aspect. However, both switches share the same bottom out force of 70 grams, meaning that the typing experience will be equally substantial on both switches. The weight of the switch is worth considering, as a lighter switch like the NovelKeys Cream allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue, making it ideal for work or extended gaming periods. On the other hand, the slightly heavier actuation force of the Gateron Ink Box Black provides a stronger push feel, giving users who prefer a more substantial typing experience an excellent choice. Overall, while the actuation forces differ slightly between the two switches, the bottom out force remains the same, guaranteeing similar results in terms of the overall typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the NovelKeys Cream has a slightly longer distance compared to the Ink Box Black. The 4.0mm travel distance of the NovelKeys Cream falls within the more traditional range, providing a deeper key press. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm in the Ink Box Black appeals to gamers who prioritize faster response times. It is important to note that both switches offer a different feel when pressed down, with the Ink Box Black providing a more shallow and responsive experience, and the NovelKeys Cream offering a deeper and more impactful keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference and the desired typing 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 Kailh NovelKeys Cream has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Cream for $6.25.
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 linear switch is best described as clacky and high-pitched. The sound produced when pressing these switches is sharp, snappy, and crisp, with a bright and percussive quality. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch has a low-pitched and resonant sound profile. Typing on these switches produces a deeper tone, but not overly so, creating a bass-heavy and mellow sound experience. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. However, if you prefer a sharper and crisper sound, the Ink Box Black will provide similar results, and if you lean towards a more bass-heavy and mellow sound, the NovelKeys Cream is a suitable choice.
When considering the feel of these switches, the Gateron Ink Box Black is characterized as silky and polished. Typing on them offers an exceptionally smooth experience, minimizing resistance during key press and release. These switches have a refined finish, resulting in a sleek and friction-free typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream is buttery and textured. The keystrokes with these switches are smooth, fluid, and effortless, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation. Some users may appreciate the subtle texture of these switches, while others may prefer a smoother experience. Additionally, the NovelKeys Cream offers an invigorating feel with pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive response. If you desire a smoother and polished typing experience, the Ink Box Black will offer similar results. Conversely, if you enjoy a buttery and textured feel with an invigorating response, the NovelKeys Cream is a suitable choice.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Black and Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Box Black delivers a clacky and high-pitched sound experience accompanied by a silky and polished typing feel. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream offers a low-pitched and resonant sound profile with a buttery and textured typing feel that can be described as invigorating. It is essential to consider personal preferences and the desired typing experience when choosing between these switches. However, if you desire a similar sound or feel, the alternatives mentioned for each switch can provide comparable results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy linear switch with a smooth and creamy typing experience, the Gateron Ink Box Black would be a great choice. These switches offer a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, which can be crisp and bright. They are also described as silky and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth typing feel with reduced friction. On the other hand, if you prefer a heftier linear typing experience with a deeper sound profile, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch would be a better fit. These switches have a low-pitched and resonant sound, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone. They are described as buttery and textured, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on your personal preferences for sound and feel.
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