Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Outemu Lotus

Overview

When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Lotus mechanical keyboard switches, one can immediately see a contrast in their sound signature and feel. The Ink Box Black is well-regarded for its smooth and creamy actuation, while producing a clacky and high-pitched sound reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the Lotus switch does not have a distinctive sound profile and is known for its subtle and quiet operation. The Ink Box Black is categorized as 'Silky' and 'Polished', offering a refined typing experience, while the Lotus switch does not have any specific categorization. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you may lean towards the Ink Box Black for its unique characteristics or the Lotus for a quieter typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

Outemu Lotus Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Lotus both have unique housing materials that contribute to the overall typing experience. The Ink Box Black's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a pointed and high-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. In contrast, the Lotus's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer and more sound-absorbent nature. While the Ink Box Black offers a sharper sound, the Lotus provides a rounder and duller sound, catering to different preferences in typing sound.

Similarly, the bottom housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Lotus play a significant role in the typing experience. The INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Black contributes to its distinct high-pitched and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Lotus's nylon bottom housing brings a fuller and deeper sound to the typing experience. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a smoother and rounder sound compared to the more pointed sound of the INK blend bottom housing.

Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Lotus impact the sound and feel of each switch. While the Ink Box Black offers a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile with its proprietary INK blend housing, the Lotus provides a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon housing. Both switches cater to different preferences in typing sound, showcasing the importance of housing materials in creating a unique typing experience. Despite the differences, both switches deliver high-quality performance and satisfying typing experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, it is evident that they vary significantly. The Ink Box Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the Lotus offers a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, resulting in a lighter and more responsive keystroke. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Lotus switch would be the ideal choice. In contrast, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Ink Box Black switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.

Travel distance

In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, it is evident that they both offer different experiences. The Ink Box Black has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Lotus offers a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This makes the Lotus the shorter option and the Ink Box Black the longer option. The shorter travel distance of the Lotus may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Ink Box Black may provide a more satisfying depth when typing. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is renowned for its silky and polished feel, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus linear switch does not have any specific feel descriptors available. When it comes to sound, the Ink Box Black is characterized by a clacky and high-pitched sound, reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. In contrast, the sound profile of the Lotus switch is unknown. Overall, if you prioritize a smooth and creamy feel with a sharp and snappy sound, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch would be the preferable choice. However, if you are looking for a linear switch with specific sound and feel characteristics, further information on the Outemu Lotus switch would be necessary for a direct comparison.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy linear switch with a smooth and creamy typing experience, as well as a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, the Gateron Ink Box Black would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and prioritize a silky and polished typing feel without any specific sound description, the Outemu Lotus linear switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences in terms of force, sound, and feel to ensure a satisfying keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Lotus Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more