Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Bsun Olive
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Bsun Olive switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Black, a linear switch, to the Bsun Olive, a tactile switch, we see two distinct options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Ink Box Black is best known for its smooth and creamy feel, accompanied by a clacky, high-pitched sound signature reminiscent of a shaken spray paint can. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive stands out with its all-POM housings and resonant, deep sound. These medium-weight switches offer pronounced tactile feedback due to a unique design and long pole stem, resulting in a satisfyingly crisp bottom-out experience. While the Ink Box Black provides a polished and silky typing experience, the Bsun Olive offers an invigorating and sharp feel. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POM
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 Bsun Olive offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile and feel of the switches. The Ink Box Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing that provides a thin and higher-pitched sound, described as clacky. In contrast, the Olive's POM top housing creates a deeper and relatively more muted sound. This difference in sound profiles can greatly impact the typing experience for users, with the Ink Box Black offering a more sharp and distinct sound compared to the Olive's softer and smoother sound.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Ink Box Black and the Bsun Olive utilize their respective proprietary blends to influence the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. The INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Black contributes to a high-pitched and satisfying sound profile when pressed, while the POM bottom housing of the Olive creates a deeper and more muted experience. This distinction in sound profiles between the two switches can cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, with some preferring a sharper and more pronounced typing sound while others opt for a quieter and subdued typing experience.
Despite the differences in housing materials for the top and bottom of the switches, both the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Bsun Olive allow users to customize their typing experience based on their preferences. The unique qualities of each housing material, whether it be the INK blend or POM material, contribute to the overall feel and sound profile of the switches. While the Ink Box Black may offer a more sharp and clacky sound, the Olive provides a deeper and more muted typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, there are some notable differences to consider. The Ink Box Black has a higher actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Olive's 45 grams, making the Olive the lighter of the two. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ink Box Black requires 70 grams compared to the Olive's 65 grams, making the Ink Box Black the heavier option for bottoming out. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of force required. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Bsun Olive may be the better choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial and tactile typing feel may prefer the Gateron Ink Box Black for its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6mm, while the Bsun Olive tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for users who prioritize faster response times. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the shorter travel distance of these switches for quick key presses during gameplay. However, individuals who prefer a more substantial key press may find the Ink Box Black with its longer travel distance to offer a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
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 Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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 often described as clacky and high-pitched, giving off a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Bsun Olive tactile switch is known for delivering a resonant, deep sound that stands out with its medium-weight switches. While the Ink Box Black may offer a more vibrant and percussive sound, the Olive switch provides a more rich and bassy tone, making the two switches distinct in their auditory experience.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is praised for its silky and polished qualities, offering an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience. This smoothness enhances the overall feel and reduces resistance when pressing and releasing keys. In contrast, the Bsun Olive tactile switch is known for its accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy feel, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming. The Olive switch's tactile feedback and reactive feel create an immersive typing sensation that sets it apart from the Ink Box Black.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch excels in providing a clacky and high-pitched sound with a silky and polished feel, the Bsun Olive tactile switch offers a resonant and deep sound with an accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy feel. Depending on personal preference, users may choose between the smooth and creamy experience of the Ink Box Black or the pronounced tactile feedback and unique design of the Olive switch to achieve similar satisfying results in their typing experience.
Conclusion
In wrapping up, when considering which switch to choose between the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Bsun Olive, it is important to take into account your preferences in terms of sound and feel. If you are looking for a smooth and creamy switch with a clacky and high-pitched sound, the Ink Box Black may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a resonant and deep sound, characterized by accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy feedback, then the Bsun Olive may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are seeking.
Mentioned in this article
