Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Milk Blue mechanical keyboard switches, we see two distinct choices for keyboard enthusiasts. The Ink Box Black offers a linear switch experience, known for its incredibly smooth and creamy feel with a sound signature similar to shaking a spray paint can. On the other hand, the Milk Blue switch provides a clicky tactile feedback, perfect for those who enjoy audible clicks with each keystroke. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Milk Blue, we can see that they both offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Black provides a thin and higher-pitched sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Milk Blue creates a sharper and crisper sound. Both materials offer a satisfying clackiness, but with slightly differing tones. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of the Milk Blue adds a deeper and fuller sound profile, contrasting with the higher-pitched sound of the Ink Box Black's bottom housing.
Despite their differences, both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in achieving desired sound profiles. The use of polycarbonate in the Milk Blue's top housing allows for compatibility with RGB lighting, offering a visually appealing option for those looking to customize their setup. On the other hand, the INK blend by Gateron in the Ink Box Black provides a unique sound experience with its pointed and high-pitched profile. The nylon bottom housing of the Milk Blue absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder tone compared to the thinner and sharper sound produced by the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Black.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Milk Blue comes down to personal preference and the specific sound profile one is looking to achieve. While both switches offer a clacky and satisfying typing experience, the differences in housing materials contribute to variations in sound and feel. Whether opting for the sharper sound of polycarbonate or the fuller sound of nylon, it's important to consider how each housing material impacts the overall typing experience and choose accordingly based on individual preferences.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch. The Ink Box Black requires 60 grams of force to actuate and 70 grams to bottom out, while the Milk Blue only needs 50 grams to actuate. The bottom out force for the Milk Blue is not specified. In terms of weight, the Ink Box Black would be considered heavier than the Milk Blue. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Milk Blue for extended typing sessions, while others may appreciate the more substantial typing experience provided by the heavier force of the Ink Box Black. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Gateron switch makes it ideal for gamers seeking faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Outemu switch provides a more substantial feeling when pressing down on the key. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their respective travel distances, with the Gateron switch being more suited for those who prefer a quicker, more responsive feel, and the Outemu switch being better for individuals who enjoy a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Milk Blue 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 sharp and snappy sound, similar to a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch does not have any specific sound descriptors available. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard's build and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black switch is praised for its silky and polished feel, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. In contrast, there are no specific feel descriptors available for the Outemu Milk Blue switch.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a distinct sound and feel profile that is smooth, creamy, and clacky, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch lacks specific descriptors for both sound and feel. Therefore, if a newcomer is looking for a smooth and clacky typing experience, the Gateron Ink Box Black switch would be a recommended choice over the Outemu Milk Blue switch. However, it is important to consider personal preferences and additional factors when choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, consider the characteristics that best suit your preferences and needs. If you prefer a smooth and creamy typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, along with a sharp and high-pitched sound signature, the Ink Box Black may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a clicky switch with an unknown bottom out force and a unique sound profile, the Milk Blue switch could be the right match for you. Ultimately, the decision should depend on your individual typing style, sound preference, and overall typing experience you are seeking.
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