Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Durock Piano
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Durock Piano switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Durock Piano, both of which are linear switches. The Ink Box Black is renowned for its incredibly smooth and creamy feel, reminiscent of shaking a spray paint can. With a sound signature described as clacky, high-pitched, silky, and polished, it offers a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Piano stands out for its proprietary material blend, making it one of the most pleasant linear switches to type on. Users have noted a gliding push feel and a deep, creamy sound signature. Categorized as bassy, frictionless, and silky, the Piano offers its own set of advantages. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Mystery material
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Durock Piano have distinctive characteristics that offer different sound profiles. The Ink Box Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. On the other hand, the Piano utilizes a proprietary POM blend top housing, which offers a uniquely satisfying and deep sound profile. While both switches provide a satisfying auditory experience, the Ink Box Black leans towards a sharper and higher-pitched sound, while the Piano delivers a deeper, more resonant tone.
In terms of their bottom housings, the Ink Box Black and the Piano also exhibit contrasting attributes. The Ink Box Black's proprietary INK blend bottom housing produces a thin and high-pitched sound that complements its top housing. Conversely, the Piano's proprietary POM blend bottom housing enhances its deep sound profile, although the exact details of the blend are undisclosed. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, allowing users to have a tactile experience that aligns with their preferred sound profile.
Although each switch has different top and bottom housing materials, it is crucial to acknowledge the impact of both on the overall auditory experience. Pressing down on the switch emphasizes the qualities of the bottom housing, leaving a lasting impression on the bottom-out sound and feel. When releasing a key, the top housing becomes more prominent, shaping the sound produced. Thus, the combination of both housing materials influences the overall sound profile of the switch, allowing users to customize their typing experience according to their preferences. Whether individuals opt for the Gateron Ink Box Black or the Durock Piano, they can expect a pleasurable auditory feedback that aligns with their desired sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, there are both similarities and differences. The actuation force of the Ink Box Black is 60 grams, while the actuation force of the Piano is not provided. However, both switches have a bottom out force in the medium-heavy range, with the Ink Box Black being slightly heavier at 70 grams and the Piano at 63.5 grams.
Considering weight as a factor, those who prefer a lighter feel may find the Ink Box Black more suitable, as it allows for longer typing periods and is ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. However, for individuals who desire a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, both switches offer a medium-heavy bottom out force that can cater to their preference. While the exact actuation force of the Piano is unknown, the similarity in the bottom out force suggests that it may provide a comparable typing experience to the Ink Box Black in terms of force exertion. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, it is clear that they have different distances. The Ink Box Black has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Piano switch. The Ink Box Black falls into the category of shorter travel distances, which is popular among gamers who value faster response times. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Piano switch may appeal to those who prefer a deeper and more substantial keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference and whether one desires a shorter and more responsive feel or a longer and more substantial keystroke. Both options, however, provide different experiences and can cater to different needs.
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 Durock Piano has an MSRP of $6.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Piano for $5.57.
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 comparing the sound qualities of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Durock Piano linear switches, there are notable differences. The Ink Box Black has a clacky sound, which produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. It has a crisp, bright, and percussive sound profile. On the other hand, the Piano switch has a deep and creamy sound signature, characterized by a lower frequency range reminiscent of bass tones. It offers a richer and more bassy sound compared to the Ink Box Black. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen. Overall, if you prefer a sharper and crisper sound, the Ink Box Black would be a better choice, while the Piano switch provides a deeper and richer tonal experience.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Ink Box Black offers a silky and polished typing experience. The switch is exceptionally smooth, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Its polished finish results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Durock Piano switch, on the other hand, is described as frictionless and silky. It offers an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. The switch provides a fluid travel, further enhancing the smoothness of the typing feel. In terms of feel, both switches offer a similar experience with their smoothness, making them comparable choices for those seeking a comfortable and effortless typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Black and Durock Piano linear switches have subjective differences in sound and feel. The Ink Box Black offers a clacky sound with a sharp and snappy character, while the Piano switch provides a deep and creamy sound profile with a bassy tonal quality. In terms of feel, both switches are described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with reduced resistance and friction. Thus, depending on your preference for sound, the Ink Box Black or Piano switch can be chosen, while both switches provide a smooth and polished feel for comfortable typing.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prioritize a slightly heavier bottom-out force and enjoy a clacky, high-pitched sound profile, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch would be a suitable choice for you. These switches are known for their smooth and creamy feel, accompanied by a sound reminiscent of a shaken spray paint can. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and a deep, bassy sound profile, the Durock Piano linear switch would be a better fit. These switches offer a gliding push feel and a pleasant, creamy sound signature. Both switches provide a silky typing experience, but the Piano switch is especially recognized for its frictionless feel. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your individual preferences for bottom-out force and sound profile.
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