Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Outemu Silent White
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Silent White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Silent White mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to note their differences and similarities. The Ink Box Black is renowned for its smooth and creamy feel, with a distinctive sound signature reminiscent of shaking a spray paint can. Categorized as clacky, high-pitched, silky, and polished, the Ink Box Black offers a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent White lacks a standout feature but is categorized as smooth and quiet. When considering which switch to choose, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what specific qualities you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Silent White both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Ink Box Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound, described as clacky. In comparison, the Silent White utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. While both materials result in a clear and resonant sound, the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent White is especially beneficial for showcasing RGB lighting.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Ink Box Black maintains its proprietary INK blend material, which also contributes to its pointed and high-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Silent White utilizes a nylon bottom housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the INK blend material. This contrast in materials showcases how different housing materials can impact the overall sound experience of a switch.
Overall, the top and bottom housing materials play a significant role in determining the sound profile of a switch. While the Gateron Ink Box Black and Outemu Silent White may have different housing materials, each material contributes to a unique sound experience. Whether the focus is on a clacky sound profile with the Ink Box Black or a crisper sound with the Silent White, the choice of housing material can greatly affect the overall typing experience for users.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is heavier than the Outemu Silent White linear switch when it comes to actuation 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 medium-heavy. In comparison, the Silent White has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating a lighter touch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Silent White would be the better option as it requires less force to register a keystroke. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black would be suitable for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference for typing force and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Outemu Silent White linear switch, it is evident that the Ink Box Black has a longer travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the 3.3 mm travel distance of the Silent White. Despite the small difference of 0.3 mm, this variance can greatly impact the typing experience for users. The shorter travel distance of the Silent White may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times, while the longer travel distance of the Ink Box Black may provide a more substantial and satisfying typing experience for those who prefer deeper key presses. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Silent White 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, reminiscent of a sharp and snappy spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent White linear switch has no specific sound description provided, which implies that it may produce a quieter typing experience. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard case and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is praised for its silky and polished typing experience, offering an exceptionally smooth and refined feel with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. In contrast, information on the feel of the Outemu Silent White linear switch is not provided, suggesting that its tactile feedback and overall typing experience may not be as explicitly defined.
Considering all the available information, it is clear that the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch excels in providing a smooth and creamy typing experience with a clacky and high-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent White linear switch lacks specific descriptions for both sound and feel, which may make it a more ambiguous choice for those seeking a specific typing experience. Ultimately, if one desires a switch with similar qualities to the Gateron Ink Box Black, it may be recommended to explore other options within the Gateron or similar switch brands to achieve comparable results.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Outemu Silent White linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing feel and sound. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a smooth and creamy typing experience with a clacky and high-pitched sound, then the Gateron Ink Box Black may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and want a quieter typing experience without any specific sound signature mentioned, then the Outemu Silent White could be more suitable. Consider your personal preferences and typing style to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, the choice is yours to make based on what feels and sounds right to you.
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