Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Black, a linear switch, to the Outemu Crystal Brown, a tactile switch, there are notable differences that cater to different preferences. The Ink Box Black is praised for its incredibly smooth and creamy feel, with a sound signature reminiscent of a shaken spray paint can. Categorized as clacky, high-pitched, silky, and polished, this switch offers a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown lacks specific standout features but is known for its reliability and balanced performance. Each switch has its own appeal, with the Ink Box Black being ideal for those who prioritize smoothness and a distinct sound profile, while the Crystal Brown may appeal to those looking for a more understated typing experience. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Box Black and Outemu Crystal Brown switches both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Ink Box Black utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a pointed and higher-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown switch features a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, perfect for those who prioritize clear and resonant sound. While both switches offer satisfying typing experiences, the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
The difference in housing materials between the Gateron Ink Box Black and Outemu Crystal Brown switches extends to their bottom housings as well. The Ink Box Black's INK blend bottom housing continues the trend of a pointed and higher-pitched sound profile, while the Crystal Brown's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound that is characteristic of classic switch materials. This difference highlights how the choice of housing material can impact the overall typing experience, from the initial keystroke to the bottom-out sound and feel. Whether you prefer a sharper sound or a more rounded one, both switches offer unique options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Ink Box Black and Outemu Crystal Brown switches will ultimately come down to individual preferences in sound and feel. While both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, the use of proprietary INK blend and polycarbonate in the top housing of the Ink Box Black and Crystal Brown respectively, showcase the importance of housing materials in creating unique sound profiles. Additionally, the differences in bottom housing materials further emphasize how each component plays a role in shaping the overall typing experience. Whether you prioritize a clacky sound or a fuller, more resonant one, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the Crystal Brown is lighter in terms of actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Ink Box Black. The Crystal Brown has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. The difference in weight between the two switches can significantly impact the typing experience for users. Some may prefer the lighter feel of the Crystal Brown for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may opt for the heavier actuation force of the Ink Box Black for a more substantial typing experience. 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, making it shorter than the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The difference may seem minimal, but it can impact the typing experience significantly. The shorter travel distance of the Ink Box Black can provide a quicker response time, making it a preferred choice for gamers or those who value speed. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Crystal Brown may offer a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a more deliberate keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and sensitivity. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles, ensuring a customizable experience for users.
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 Outemu Crystal Brown comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is renowned for its smooth and creamy feel, making typing a delight with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Its sound signature is likened to a sharp and snappy noise, resembling the sound of a shaken spray paint can. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch's subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel are not provided. However, if you prefer a high-pitched and clacky sound with a silky and polished typing experience, the Gateron Ink Box Black would be a suitable choice. These switches are highly dependent on other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen, but ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. If you gravitate towards a creamy and smooth typing experience with a sharp sound, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch would be an excellent option to consider.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch or the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a heavier switch with a smooth and creamy feel, along with a clacky and high-pitched sound, then the Ink Box Black may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a medium-light bottom out force and are looking for a tactile typing experience, the Crystal Brown may be more suitable. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel to make an informed decision on which switch will best suit your needs. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on what you value most in your typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
