Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Silent Yellow mechanical keyboard switches, one can immediately notice their differences in sound and feel. The Ink Box Black is famous for its smooth and creamy typing experience, with a sound signature reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow switch remains inaudible, offering a silent typing experience. While the Ink Box Black is categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', and 'Polished', the Silent Yellow is uncategorized. Both switches have their unique appeal, with the Ink Box Black providing a satisfying tactile feedback and the Silent Yellow ensuring stealthy typing sessions. 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
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Silent Yellow, one noticeable difference is in their top housing material. The Ink Box Black utilizes a proprietary INK blend, which provides a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. The use of polycarbonate also allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switch.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Silent Yellow also differ. The Ink Box Black's proprietary INK blend bottom housing shares the same characteristics as its top housing, providing a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. In contrast, the Silent Yellow's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder tone. This results in a different typing experience for each switch, with the Ink Box Black offering a clackier sound and the Silent Yellow providing a deeper and softer sound.
Overall, while the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Silent Yellow may have different housing materials for both the top and bottom of the switch, each material brings unique qualities to the typing experience. The INK blend and polycarbonate used in the top housing contribute to the overall sound profile and aesthetics, while the nylon bottom housing of the Silent Yellow enhances the bottom-out sound and feel. However, despite these differences, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience tailored to the preferences of the user.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it is evident that the Silent Yellow is the heavier option. The Ink Box Black has an actuation force of 60 grams, making it slightly lighter than the Silent Yellow, which requires 65 grams to actuate. In terms of bottom out force, the Ink Box Black requires 70 grams, while the Silent Yellow needs 80 grams, indicating a heavier feel when fully pressed. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Ink Box Black may be more suitable, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Outemu Silent Yellow for its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for typing feel and force required for a satisfying keystroke.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, we can see that the Ink Box Black has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Silent Yellow has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Silent Yellow has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Ink Box Black. In general, a shorter travel distance can provide faster response times, making it ideal for gamers looking for quick and precise key presses. On the other hand, a longer travel distance can offer a more satisfying and tactile typing experience for those who prefer a deeper press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and whether a shorter or longer travel distance is preferred.
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 Yellow 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 produces a clacky and high-pitched sound when pressed, reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch is not available. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black switch is known for its silky and polished characteristics, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance. This switch provides a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing feel due to either the materials used or factory lubing. In contrast, details about the feel of the Outemu Silent Yellow switch are not provided.
Taking into account the information available, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch stands out for its smooth and creamy feel, along with a clacky and high-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, while information on the sound and feel of the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch is limited, it's essential to consider personal preferences and factors such as desired typing experience and sound profile when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches may provide similar results in terms of feel and sound depending on individual preferences and setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams and a smooth, clacky, high-pitched sound profile, along with a silky and polished typing feel, then the Gateron Ink Box Black is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams and a silent typing experience, then the Outemu Silent Yellow may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile.
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