Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Outemu Green
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Green are two popular options to consider. The Ink Box Black is a linear switch that is praised for its smooth and creamy feel, with a sound signature reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the Outemu Green is a clicky switch with no specific standout characteristic. If you prefer a quiet and silky typing experience, the Ink Box Black might be the way to go. However, for those who enjoy the satisfying click and tactile feedback of a clicky switch, the Outemu Green could be the better choice. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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 Green, we see that they both offer unique sound profiles due to their different housing materials. The Ink Box Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which creates a pointed and high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. On the other hand, the Green's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. While both materials result in a higher-pitched sound, the INK blend top housing is known for its unique sound that sets it apart from the polycarbonate top housing of the Green.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the differences become more apparent between the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Green. The Ink Box Black features a proprietary INK blend bottom housing that creates a satisfying and higher-pitched sound profile, similar to its top housing. In contrast, the Green's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon absorbing more sound. This creates a rounder and duller sound compared to the Ink Box Black's bottom housing. Therefore, while both switches offer a unique sound experience, the choice between them will depend on whether one prefers a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, fuller sound.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Green result in distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Black creates a clacky and high-pitched sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Green offers a sharper and clearer sound. Similarly, the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Black delivers a higher-pitched sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the Green produces a deeper and fuller sound. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on whether one prefers a sharper, crisper sound profile or a deeper, fuller sound profile in their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch to the Outemu Green clicky switch, it is evident that the Green switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Ink Box Black switch. The Ink Box Black has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Outemu Green switch has an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, categorizing it as a heavy switch. This means that the Outemu Green switch will require more force to trigger a keystroke and fully press down compared to the Gateron Ink Box Black switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Ink Box Black may be the better option, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may opt for the Outemu Green switch for a more tactile and responsive typing experience. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Green clicky switch with a travel distance of 4mm. 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 Outemu Green could provide a more substantial key press experience. Both switches have different travel distances, offering users the ability to choose based on their preference for responsiveness or depth in their typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on individual preferences for travel distance.
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 Green 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 known for its smooth and creamy typing experience, reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. When it comes to sound, this switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound, giving a sharp and percussive feedback when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Green clicky switch lacks a known sound description, so it's difficult to directly compare. Moving on to the feel, the Ink Box Black switch is described as silky and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance. Without a description for the Outemu Green switch's feel, it's hard to make a direct comparison. Overall, if you prefer a smooth and creamy typing experience with a sharp and clacky sound profile, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch would be a good choice. However, if you're looking for more information on the Outemu Green switch, additional research or testing may be needed to determine if it fits your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and creamy typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavy bottom out force and enjoy a sharp and snappy sound when typing, the Outemu Green clicky switch may be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing preferences and desired tactile experience.
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