Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up for consideration are the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Red Panda. The Ink Box Black is a linear switch, known for its incredibly smooth and creamy feel while typing. Its sound signature is analogous to a spray paint can being shaken, giving it a distinctive clacky, high-pitched, yet silky and polished sound. On the other hand, the Red Panda is a tactile switch that offers a light-medium amount of tactility. While typing, users can experience a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. Categorized as thocky and mild, the Red Panda provides a unique typing experience. Both switches have their own charm and advantages, but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Outemu Red Panda switches have distinct differences in terms of sound profile and material properties. The Ink Box Black utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housing. This blend creates a thin, higher-pitched sound that is often described as "clacky." In contrast, the Red Panda features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate also allows for RGB lighting to be more visible, making it aesthetically pleasing. While the materials differ, both switches offer satisfying, higher-pitched sound profiles.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Ink Box Black and the Red Panda also have contrasting materials. The Ink Box Black uses the same proprietary INK blend as its top housing, resulting in a similar pointed and high-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Red Panda incorporates a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its relatively softer plastic properties. This material absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound profile. As a result, while both switches offer a satisfying sound experience, the Red Panda's nylon bottom housing elicits a slightly different tone due to its sound absorption properties.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall switch performance, it is worth noting that they play different roles. The bottom housing has a stronger influence on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, as it directly relates to the pressing action. In contrast, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when you release a key. Therefore, while the housing materials may differ between the Ink Box Black and the Red Panda, the overall functionality and experience of the switches will be similar in terms of the sound produced during different stages of key movement.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have similar force requirements for triggering a keystroke. The Ink Box Black has an actuation force of 60 grams, while the Red Panda requires 50 grams of force. Similarly, the bottom out force for the Ink Box Black is 70 grams, slightly heavier than the Red Panda's 60 grams.
In terms of weight, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Red Panda switch as it requires slightly less force for actuation and bottoming out. This lightweight design allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions.
On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience may find the Ink Box Black more suitable. With a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force, this switch provides a stronger push feel, resulting in a more tactile and satisfying typing experience. This option is favored by users who appreciate the added resistance and feedback while typing.
Overall, while the Red Panda offers a lighter typing experience, the Ink Box Black provides a heavier and more substantial feel. However, both switches deliver similar results, making them excellent options depending on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, we can see that the Ink Box Black has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the Red Panda's 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of commonly used travel distances. The Ink Box Black's longer travel distance may appeal more to those who enjoy a deeper and more substantial key press, while the Red Panda's slightly shorter travel distance may be preferred by gamers or individuals looking for a faster response time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and 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 Outemu Red Panda comes in at $3.40 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 best described as clacky and high-pitched. When pressing these switches, you will experience a sharp and snappy sound, similar to a spray paint can being shaken. The sound is crisp, bright, and percussive, making it suitable for those who prefer a more vibrant and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offers a different sound profile. It produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound, often referred to as thocky. Think of a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when pressing and releasing the key. This sound is more bassy and provides a sense of depth to the typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black provides a silky and polished typing experience. These switches are exceptionally smooth, enhancing the overall smoothness and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The finish of the switch is smooth and refined, resulting in a sleek typing feel. This can be attributed to either the materials used or the factory lubing, which reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda offers a mild typing experience. It falls within a safe middle ground, providing a more gentle feedback compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The Red Panda switches are approachable to most users, offering a comfortable and easy-to-use feel.
Taking all of the available information into consideration, the Gateron Ink Box Black and Outemu Red Panda switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Box Black provides a clacky and high-pitched sound, alongside a silky and polished typing feel. It offers a vibrant and smooth experience for those seeking a more lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Red Panda offers a thocky sound with a bassier bottom-out sound and clackier top-out sound. The feel is mild, providing a gentle and approachable typing experience. Both switches offer their own distinct characteristics, allowing users to customize their typing experience based on their preferences. While the sound and feel may differ, both switches are capable of providing satisfying results, ensuring an enjoyable and tailored typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who prefers a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoys a smooth and creamy typing experience, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch would be the better choice for you. These switches are known for their clacky and high-pitched sound profile, which can be a preference for those who enjoy a sharp and crisp sound when typing. Additionally, the Ink Box Black offers a silky and polished feel that enhances the overall smoothness of your typing experience.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force and prefer a more tactile typing experience, the Outemu Red Panda switch would be a suitable option. These switches provide a light-medium amount of tactility and produce a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound, along with a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. The Red Panda offers a mild typing experience, which appeals to most users as it falls in a safe middle-ground zone.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch depends on your personal preferences. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel to determine which switch aligns with your preferences and needs. Both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your overall typing experience, so choose the one that suits you best. In the end, the goal is to find a switch that provides a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience as you use your mechanical keyboard.
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