Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Box Black and Outemu Gold offer unique experiences for users. The Gateron Ink Box Black is a linear switch that is beloved for its smooth and creamy feel, along with a sound signature that resembles a spray paint can being shaken. Categorized as clacky, high-pitched, silky, and polished, this switch is ideal for those who prioritize a quiet yet satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold is a clicky switch that doesn't have a specific standout feature but is still a popular choice. Categorized as tactile and audible, this switch provides a feedback that some users prefer for a more traditional typing 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
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Gold switches, we see that the Ink Box Black utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housings. This blend is known for its pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, resulting in a satisfyingly clacky typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffness leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that prioritize sound quality and clarity.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Gateron Ink Box Black continues to use its proprietary INK blend, maintaining the pointed and high-pitched sound profile that defines its key switches. In contrast, the Outemu Gold switches utilize a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that may appeal to those looking for a quieter typing experience. The different bottom housing materials of these switches showcase how material choice can significantly impact sound and feel.
Overall, while the Gateron Ink Box Black and Outemu Gold switches differ in their housing materials, both switches are designed to optimize sound quality and typing experience. The INK blend used in the Ink Box Black delivers a unique clacky sound, while the polycarbonate and nylon materials used in the Outemu Gold provide sharp, crisp tones and deeper, fuller sounds, respectively. Whether you prefer a higher-pitched, resonant sound or a softer, more muffled typing experience, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it is evident that the Gold switch is lighter in both aspects. The Gold switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight switch overall. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black switch is heavier, with an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams. This makes the Ink Box Black switch more suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, while the Gold switch would be ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for prolonged typing sessions or gaming. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches provide distinct options for different preferences in typing feel and keypress feedback.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Gold clicky switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Ink Box Black can provide a quicker response time, making it preferred by gamers looking for fast and precise keystrokes. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Gold clicky switch may offer a more substantial feeling when typing, which some users may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for either a shorter or longer travel distance 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 Outemu Gold 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. This sharp and crisp sound can be quite satisfying for those who enjoy a more percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold clicky switch's sound profile is unknown, so it's difficult to compare directly. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black switch is praised for its silky and polished typing experience. These switches are exceptionally smooth, providing minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The polished finish enhances the overall typing feel, resulting in a sleek and refined experience. On the other hand, information on the feel of the Outemu Gold switch is not available, so it's hard to make a direct comparison in this aspect. However, it's worth considering that the smoothness of key travel and reduced friction offered by the Ink Box Black may be appealing to users seeking a premium typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch stands out for its smooth and creamy feel, as well as its clacky and high-pitched sound profile. While the qualities of the Outemu Gold clicky switch remain unknown, if you are looking for a similar tactile and auditory experience, the Gateron Ink Box Black may provide a satisfying result. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, consider your preference for typing feel and sound. If you prioritize a smooth and polished feel with a clacky and high-pitched sound, the Gateron Ink Box Black is the better option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium bottom out force with a unique sound signature and are less concerned about the typing feel, the Outemu Gold clicky switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you value most.
Mentioned in this article
