Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Outemu Ocean
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Ocean. The Ink Box Black is a linear switch that is renowned for its incredibly smooth and creamy feel, with a sound signature reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean is a tactile switch that offers a different typing experience, although it lacks a distinct characteristic. While the Ink Box Black is best suited for those who prefer a clacky, high-pitched, silky, and polished typing feel, the Ocean switch provides a different, yet undefined, tactile 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
55g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Ocean switches differ significantly in terms of sound profile and material. The Ink Box Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a thin, higher-pitched sound described as clacky. In contrast, the Ocean switch utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, crisper sound with a higher pitch. The use of polycarbonate in the Ocean switch allows for a clear and resonant sound profile, particularly ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency.
While the top housings of the two switches vary, the bottom housings also differ in material and sound profile. The Ink Box Black's proprietary INK blend bottom housing shares similar characteristics with its top housing, providing a pointed and high-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Ocean switch features a nylon bottom housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon as a plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate.
Overall, the choice of housing material for a switch affects both the sound profile and feel of typing. The qualities of the bottom housing impact the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. While the Gateron Ink Box Black and Outemu Ocean switches may differ in their housing materials and resulting sound profiles, both switches offer unique typing experiences based on the properties of their respective materials.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, which requires 55 grams of force to actuate. In terms of bottom out force, the Ink Box Black requires 70 grams, while the Ocean's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Ink Box Black switch is slightly heavier both in actuation and bottom out forces. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Outemu Ocean switch, as it requires less force to actuate. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Ink Box Black switch, which provides a bit more resistance with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, selecting between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Ocean tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Ink Box Black offers a shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the Ocean switch provides a slightly deeper keypress, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, with the Ink Box Black being shorter and the Ocean being longer. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 Ocean 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 is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, resembling that of a shaken spray paint can. On the other hand, information on the sound qualities of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch is currently unavailable. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black switch is praised for its silky and polished typing experience, offering minimal resistance and smooth key travel. Conversely, details on the tactile feel of the Outemu Ocean switch are not provided. For users seeking a buttery smooth typing experience, the Ink Box Black is a solid choice.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch stands out for its smooth and creamy feel, clacky high-pitched sound, and overall refined typing experience. While information on the Outemu Ocean tactile switch is limited, users can expect a similar sound profile from both switches, as well as a comparable level of smoothness in key presses. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch or the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a smooth and creamy typing experience with a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, then the Gateron Ink Box Black may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a lighter bottom out force and are willing to sacrifice sound and feel descriptions for a tactile typing experience, then the Outemu Ocean tactile switch could be the better choice. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics, so it's important to consider what qualities are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch before making a decision.
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