Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Outemu Silent Yellow Jade
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Ink Box Black is a linear switch known for its smooth and creamy feel, with a sound reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade is a tactile switch that provides a quiet and satisfying "thocky" sound while typing. Each switch has its own category, with the Ink Box Black being described as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', and 'Polished', and the Silent Yellow Jade falling under a unique category. Depending on whether you prefer a linear or tactile typing experience, one of these switches may be a better fit for you. 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
65g
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 Silent Yellow Jade both have unique housing materials that contribute to the overall typing experience. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Black provides a pointed and high-pitched sound profile, resulting in a satisfying and clacky sound. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Silent Yellow Jade offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's ability to absorb more sound. Both switches offer different auditory experiences, with the Ink Box Black being more sharp and high-pitched while the Silent Yellow Jade offers a rounder and duller sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, the INK blend material of the Ink Box Black similarly contributes to its high-pitched sound profile, resulting in a clacky typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Silent Yellow Jade provides a softer impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, creating a more rounded typing experience. While both switches have different bottom housing materials, they both offer distinct tactile feedback and sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The choice between the two would ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade will depend on the type of typing experience an individual is looking for. The INK blend housing of the Ink Box Black provides a sharper and clackier sound profile, while the nylon housing of the Silent Yellow Jade offers a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, making them suitable for various typing styles. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch, one can see that the Silent Yellow Jade is the lighter option with an actuation force of 50 grams, compared to the Ink Box Black with an actuation force of 60 grams. Both switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force, with the Ink Box Black at 70 grams and the Silent Yellow Jade at 65 grams. The difference in actuation force may result in a slightly lighter typing experience with the Silent Yellow Jade, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black may provide a more substantial typing experience due to its higher actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade has a shorter travel distance compared to the Gateron Ink Box Black. The shorter travel distance of the Outemu switch may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times, while the Gateron switch may be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for travel distance and key 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 Yellow Jade 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 provides a unique sound reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken, giving it a clacky and high-pitched profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch offers a quiet typing experience with a satisfying "thocky" sound. This means that the two switches have very different sound profiles, catering to different preferences. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black switch is known for its silky and polished feel, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance. This smoothness enhances the overall typing feel and reduces friction for a sleek and refined typing experience. Unfortunately, there is no information available on the specific feel of the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switch.
Overall, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch excels in providing a smooth and creamy typing experience with a unique sound profile, while the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch offers a quieter typing experience with a punchy tactile bump. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches have their own strengths and characteristics. However, if you enjoy smooth and polished switches, you can expect similar results with the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force and typing experience. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a smooth, creamy typing experience with a clacky, high-pitched sound, the Ink Box Black may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and a quiet, tactile typing experience with a unique translucent jade yellow housing and punchy tactile bump, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switch could be the better option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preference for bottom out force, sound, and feel. Choose the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences.
Mentioned in this article
