Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Outemu Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Black and Outemu Silver mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are linear switches, there are some notable differences to consider. The Gateron Ink Box Black is renowned for its smooth and creamy feel, giving users a tactile experience reminiscent of shaking a spray paint can. It has been described as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver does not have a specific standout feature, but is known for its straightforward linear feel. While both switches offer a linear typing experience, the Gateron Ink Box Black is favored for its unique tactile characteristics, while the Outemu Silver is praised for its simplicity. 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
65g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Silver switches, a key difference lies in the top housing. The Ink Box Black features Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile described as clacky. On the other hand, the Silver switch's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic, results in a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the use of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting due to its translucency, which enhances the visual appeal of the switch.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Silver switches also differ. The Ink Box Black utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend bottom housing, which contributes to a pointed and higher-pitched sound profile akin to a clacky sound. Conversely, the Silver switch's nylon bottom housing brings forth a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use a nylon bottom housing.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Silver switches offer distinct sound profiles, they both play a crucial role in the overall typing experience. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Regardless of which housing material is used, both switches provide unique auditory feedback for users seeking a specific typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Outemu Silver linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force of 70 grams for the Ink Box Black and 65 grams for the Silver. The lighter actuation force of the Silver switch may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the heavier actuation force of the Ink Box Black switch may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who like a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Outemu Silver has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Gateron Ink Box Black. The shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm on the Gateron switch may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the 4 mm travel distance on the Outemu switch may provide a more solid and deliberate key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Overall, both switches offer different travel distances that cater to different preferences, with the Outemu Silver being the longer option and the Gateron Ink Box Black being the shorter option.
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 Silver 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
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is renowned for its smooth and creamy feel, offering an exceptionally silky and polished typing experience. When pressed, it produces a clacky and high-pitched sound similar to a shaken spray paint can. On the other hand, information on the Outemu Silver linear switch's sound and feel is unknown. However, based on the described qualities of the Ink Box Black, it can be assumed that the Outemu Silver may offer a similar smooth and polished feel, but without the specific sound characteristics mentioned for the Gateron switch. Ultimately, both switches may deliver a satisfying typing experience, but the distinct sound profiles of the Gateron Ink Box Black sets it apart for those who appreciate a clacky and high-pitched sound.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force and sound profile. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 70 grams and enjoy a smooth and creamy typing experience with a clacky and high-pitched sound, then the Ink Box Black is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and prioritize a smooth typing feel without a defined sound signature, then the Silver might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so be sure to choose based on what fits your typing style and sound preferences best.
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