Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Outemu Dustproof Purple
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Dustproof Purple mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Ink Box Black is a linear switch that is praised for its smooth and creamy feel, along with a sound signature reminiscent of a shaken spray paint can. On the other hand, the Dustproof Purple is a clicky switch that remains silent in its best known aspects. While the Ink Box Black offers a clacky, high-pitched, silky, and polished typing experience, the Dustproof Purple remains more mysterious in its characteristics. If you value smoothness and a unique sound profile, the Ink Box Blacks may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky experience with a quieter typing sound, the Dustproof Purples could be your best bet. 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
55g
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
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 housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches offer contrasting sound profiles and experiences. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Black provides a slightly higher-pitched and clacky sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Purple offers a sharper and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate in the Dustproof Purple results in a more resonant and clear sound profile compared to the Ink Box Black. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing aspect to the switch.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials, the differences between the two switches become more apparent. The INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Black contributes to its pointed and high-pitched sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Purple elicits a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a rounder and duller sound compared to the higher-pitched sound of the Ink Box Black. This difference in bottom housing material plays a significant role in the overall typing experience and sound produced by each switch.
While the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Dustproof Purple switches offer different sound profiles and typing experiences, they both showcase the impact that top and bottom housing materials can have on the overall switch performance. The Ink Box Black emphasizes a higher-pitched and clacky sound with its INK blend top and bottom housing, while the Dustproof Purple provides a sharper and deeper sound with its polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing. Both switches demonstrate how the choice of housing material can influence the sound, feel, and overall typing experience of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams compared to the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, which has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a bit of resistance. The difference in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches allows users to choose based on their preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience. Some may opt for the lighter actuation force of the Dustproof Purple for longer typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer the stronger push feel of the Ink Box Black for a more substantial typing feedback. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar performance in terms of force requirements with slight variations, catering to a range of user preferences.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, we can see that the Ink Box Black has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm while the Dustproof Purple has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Ink Box Black may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Dustproof Purple may provide a more substantial and satisfying key press for those who prefer more depth in their switches. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of travel distance, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference as to which one would be the better fit.
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 Dustproof Purple 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch offers a unique clacky and high-pitched sound profile, reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. This sharp and percussive sound can provide a satisfying auditory experience for those who enjoy a crisp and bright sound when typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch's sound characteristics are unknown. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be affected by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is known for its silky and polished typing experience. These switches offer an exceptionally smooth feel, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The polished finish of the switch results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch is unknown.
Overall, if you are looking for a switch with a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, as well as a silky and polished typing experience, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch would be a great choice. However, if you are more interested in the sound and feel of the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, further information may be necessary to make a direct comparison. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel when typing.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch, consider the following. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth, creamy typing experience with a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, the Ink Box Black may be the ideal switch for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a clicky switch with a unique sound signature, the Dustproof Purple could be the better option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences in terms of typing feel and sound. Both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose wisely based on what suits your typing style the best.
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