Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Outemu Peach (V3)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Peach (V3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introduction:
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Peach, both of which are linear switches. The Ink Box Black is well-known for its incredibly smooth and creamy feel, offering a satisfying typing experience. Its sound signature resembles that of a spray paint can being shaken, providing a unique auditory experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach stands out for its lightweight nature and silenced operation. This makes it perfect for those who prefer a feathery light typing experience without the noise associated with traditional switches. While these general attributes provide a good starting point for choosing a switch, let's delve deeper into their characteristics to help you decide on the most suitable option for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
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 Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Outemu Peach differ in their housing materials, with the Ink Box Black featuring a proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing, while the Outemu Peach uses nylon for both the top and bottom housing. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Black is known for its pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, which is often described as clacky. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Outemu Peach provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Despite these differences, both switches offer satisfying tactile feedback and can provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Ink Box Black's proprietary INK blend and the Outemu Peach's nylon offer different characteristics. The INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Black contributes to its pointed and high-pitched sound profile, which adds to the clacky typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Outemu Peach allows for a deeper and fuller sound, creating a more rounded typing experience. These differences in bottom housing materials can significantly impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches.
While the top and bottom housings of the switches differ, the overall typing experience of both the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Peach is influenced by the qualities each housing material brings. When pressing down on either switch, the bottom housing will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will affect the sound when releasing a key. Both switches offer their unique sound profiles and tactile feedback, providing users with a satisfying typing experience whether they prefer a clacky sound or a deeper, fuller sound.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch, it is evident that there are notable differences in terms of their actuation force and bottom out force. 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 Peach has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, categorizing it as a light switch.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Outemu Peach switch would be the better option. With its lower actuation and bottom out forces, it provides a responsive and effortless keystroke, allowing for longer typing periods without strain. This makes it ideal for individuals who spend extended hours typing for work or engage in marathon gaming sessions.
However, if users prioritize a more substantial and tactile typing feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black switch would be more suitable. With its higher actuation and bottom out forces, it requires a stronger push, providing a satisfying level of resistance and feedback during typing. This can enhance the overall typing experience for those who prefer a more pronounced keystroke.
Considering the weight aspect, those who desire a lighter typing experience would find the Outemu Peach switch preferable. However, for individuals who enjoy a heavier keypress for a more substantial typing experience, the Gateron Ink Box Black switch would be the better choice.
Although the forces of these switches differ, it is important to note that both options will ultimately offer similar results in terms of triggering keystrokes. Both switches provide a smooth linear action without any tactile feedback, which can be preferred by users who desire a consistent typing experience without distracting tactile bumps.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch, we can see that the Ink Box Black has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Peach has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with the Ink Box Black switch, you will feel a slightly greater distance compared to the Outemu Peach switch. Both of these travel distances are shorter than the traditional 4.0mm and are considered to be on the shallower side. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Outemu Peach switch as it can provide faster response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper keypress may opt for the Ink Box Black switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Overall, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference for either a more responsive or deeper keystroke 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 Peach (V3) comes in at $3.40 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 is known for producing a clacky and high-pitched sound. These switches have a crisp and percussive sound when pressed, reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach switches have a more neutral and muted sound. They produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches, making them ideal for minimizing noise in shared spaces. If you prefer a sharper and more lively sound profile, the Ink Box Black is the better choice. However, if you're looking for a quieter and more subdued typing experience, the Outemu Peach switches will be more suitable.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black switches offer an exceptionally smooth and silky typing experience. These switches are considered to be silky and polished, providing minimal resistance and smooth key travel. The Outemu Peach switches, on the other hand, offer a mild and subtle typing experience. They have a gentle resistance and a safe middle-ground feel, making them approachable to most users. Additionally, both switches have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and a sleek typing experience. Whether you prefer an ultra-smooth and refined feel or a gentle and light typing experience, both switches provide satisfying tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Black and Outemu Peach linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Box Black delivers a clacky and high-pitched sound, accompanied by an exceptionally smooth and silky typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach provides a more neutral and muted sound, paired with a mild and subtle typing sensation. Depending on your preferences, you can choose between a livelier and louder typing experience with the Ink Box Black or a quieter and more gentle feel with the Outemu Peach. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer their respective qualities, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are someone who enjoys a medium to heavy bottom out force and values a smooth and creamy typing experience, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is a great choice for you. These switches provide a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, giving you a sharp and crisp sound when typing. Additionally, the Ink Box Blacks offer a silky and polished feel, ensuring enhanced smoothness and reduced friction when pressing and releasing keys.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and prioritize a feathery light typing experience, the Outemu Peach linear switch is the perfect option. These switches are not only lightweight but also silenced, making them ideal for those who want a quieter typing experience. The Outemu Peach switches have a neutral sound profile, resulting in a moderate and muted sound when typing. In terms of feel, they offer a mild and subtle typing experience, striking a balance between gentle resistance and lightness. Additionally, like the Ink Box Blacks, the Outemu Peach switches have a polished finish, providing smooth key travel and reduced friction.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Peach switches depends on your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. Consider your desired typing experience and choose the switch that aligns with your preferences and needs.
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