Gateron Ink Box Black vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options available to cater to various preferences and typing styles. In this comparison, we will be examining two popular switches: the Gateron Ink Box Black, a linear switch, and the KTT Phalaenopsis, a tactile switch. The Ink Box Black is best known for its incredibly smooth and creamy feel, giving a delightful typing experience. Its sound signature reminds one of a spray paint can being shaken, offering a distinctive clacky and high-pitched sound. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switch showcases a beautiful translucent design and boasts a light actuation force of 37g, minimizing finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. The 50g tactile force provides a satisfying and discernible tactile bump, resulting in a delightful typing experience with a distinct bassy and thocky sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches differ in terms of their construction. The Ink Box Black uses a proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housing, which results in a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switch utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. However, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Phalaenopsis is particularly advantageous for those planning to use RGB lighting due to its translucency.
While they have differences, both switches present distinct sound characteristics in their respective housing materials. The INK blend used in the Gateron Ink Box Black creates a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound that is not overly sharp. Similarly, the polycarbonate housing of the KTT Phalaenopsis contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. Therefore, if you are seeking a switch that provides a clacky sound experience, the Ink Box Black would be a suitable choice. Alternatively, if you prefer a switch that produces a high-pitched and crisp sound, the Phalaenopsis with its polycarbonate housing would deliver similar results.
It's important to note that the impact of the housing materials differs between the top and bottom housings of a switch. The qualities brought by the bottom housing material will be more noticeable during the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed. On the other hand, the sound when you release a key will be influenced more by the top housing. As such, whether you opt for the Gateron Ink Box Black or the KTT Phalaenopsis, the housing materials will play a crucial role in dictating the overall sound experience of the switch, depending on whether you are pressing or releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Ink Box Black requires a higher actuation force of 60 grams, while the Phalaenopsis has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams. This means that the Phalaenopsis can register a keystroke with a lighter touch compared to the Ink Box Black. In terms of bottom out force, the Ink Box Black has a heavier force of 70 grams, while the Phalaenopsis is lighter at 50 grams. This indicates that when pressing down fully on a key, the Ink Box Black provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force. On the other hand, the lighter bottom out force of the Phalaenopsis allows for a smoother and potentially less fatiguing typing experience. So, while the Ink Box Black offers a medium-heavy feel, the Phalaenopsis is on the lighter side. Overall, these differences in force make the Ink Box Black suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Phalaenopsis is better suited for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, it is clear that they have different distances. The Ink Box Black has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Phalaenopsis has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. These differences may seem small, but they can have a noticeable impact on the typing experience. 4.0mm is the most traditional travel distance, providing a standard depth that many users are accustomed to. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black offers a shorter travel distance, which is often preferred by gamers seeking faster response times. If you value quick and responsive keystrokes, the shorter travel distance of the Ink Box Black may be your best choice. However, for those who prefer a more substantial feeling and deeper key travel, the Phalaenopsis with its longer travel distance may be the better option. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
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 KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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. This means that it provides a sharp and snappy sound, with crisp and bright characteristics. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offers a bassy and thocky sound profile. This means that it produces a deeper and richer sound during key presses, resembling a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released. Overall, if you prefer a sharper and crisper sound, the Ink Box Black would be the better choice. If you enjoy a deeper and more satisfying sound, the Phalaenopsis would be more suitable.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black switch is renowned for its silky and polished sensation. This means that it provides an exceptionally smooth typing experience, enhancing the overall smoothness and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The Phalaenopsis tactile switch, on the other hand, is described as stepped, indicating that it has a two-stage feel. It offers a milder tactile feedback compared to hypertactile switches, allowing users to feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel. If you prioritize a smooth and refined typing experience, the Ink Box Black would be the better choice. If you prefer a tactile switch with a subtle two-stage feel, the Phalaenopsis would suit your preferences.
Taking all the available information into account, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch differ in both sound and feel. The Ink Box Black provides a clacky and high-pitched sound with a silky and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis offers a bassy and thocky sound with a stepped tactile feel. While the two switches have their unique qualities, it is important to note that the sound and feel can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Additionally, if you are seeking a similar result in terms of sound or feel, you can explore switches that fall under the same descriptors mentioned above for each attribute.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a clacky, high-pitched sound, then the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is the perfect choice for you. These switches are incredibly smooth and creamy, providing a silky and polished typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a bassy, thocky sound, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch would be more suitable. With its beautiful translucent design and light actuation force, typing becomes effortless and finger fatigue is minimized. The discernible tactile bump ensures a delightful typing experience, while the stepped feel provides a more mild tactile experience compared to hypertactile switches. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preference for bottom out force, sound, and feel. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience.
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