Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Tom offer distinct experiences for users. The Ink Box Black is a linear switch that is praised for its smooth and creamy feel, with a unique sound signature reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom is a tactile switch, offering a different typing experience. While the Ink Box Black is categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', and 'Polished', the Tom does not have specific categorizations. If you prefer a smooth and quiet typing experience, the Ink Box Black may be the way to go. If you enjoy a tactile feedback while typing, the Outemu Tom could be your choice. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
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 Tom, it is clear that both switches offer unique sound profiles due to their respective materials. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Black provides a high-pitched and clacky sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Tom creates a sharper and more resonant sound. The choice between these two switches would come down to personal preference in terms of sound and typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Ink Box Black features the same proprietary INK blend material as its top housing, resulting in a consistent sound profile throughout the switch. In contrast, the Tom utilizes a nylon bottom housing which produces a deeper and fuller sound compared to the INK blend material. This difference in sound profile could be a deciding factor for users who prioritize the tactile feedback of their switches.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Tom will ultimately come down to individual preferences in terms of sound and typing feel. While the Ink Box Black offers a consistent high-pitched and clacky sound profile thanks to its proprietary INK blend material in both top and bottom housings, the Tom provides a sharper and more resonant sound with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so users should consider their typing habits and sound preferences before making a decision.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, it is evident that the Ink Box Black is heavier in both actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Tom. The Ink Box Black has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, while the Tom has an actuation force of 55 grams and an unknown bottom out force. The Ink Box Black offers a more substantial typing experience with its medium-heavy forces, making it suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the Tom provides a lighter typing experience with its lighter actuation force, which is ideal for users looking to type for longer periods without fatigue. Both switches offer different typing experiences based on their force requirements, catering to the preferences of individual users.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Tom tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This makes the Tom switch the shorter option of the two. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for quicker response times. The shorter travel distance of the Tom switch may appeal to those looking for a more responsive typing experience, while the slightly longer travel distance of the Ink Box Black switch may provide a more substantial key press feel for those who prefer a deeper actuation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for typing feel and response time.
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 Tom 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, resembling that of a shaken spray paint can. On the other hand, the sound qualities of the Outemu Tom tactile switch are unknown. It's important to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard's build and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is renowned for its silky and polished attributes, offering an extremely smooth typing experience with minimal resistance. Conversely, the feel of the Outemu Tom tactile switch is unspecified. The polished finish of the Ink Box Black contributes to reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing feel.
Based on the available information, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch stands out for its smooth and creamy feel, combined with a clacky and high-pitched sound signature. In comparison, details about the Outemu Tom tactile switch are lacking. However, if both switches were to have similar characteristics, it is likely that users would experience consistent results in terms of typing feel and sound. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on personal preference for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, you should consider your preference for a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth, creamy typing experience with a clacky and high-pitched sound profile. The Ink Box Black is a great choice for those who prefer a sleek and refined typing feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, if bottom out force and sound profile are not a priority for you, the Tom switch may be a suitable option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style to ensure a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
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