Gateron Ink Box Black vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Ink Box Black and the SP-Star RedBlue are two popular options to consider. On one hand, the Ink Box Black is revered for its incredibly smooth and creamy performance, with a sound resembling a shaken spray paint can. Its categorized attributes include a clacky and high-pitched sound, as well as a silky and polished feel. On the other hand, the RedBlue linear switches offer something truly unique with their medium-light typing experience. These switches are particularly well-suited for individuals who prefer a higher-pitched sound profile. Categorized as low-pitched and neutral, with a mild and thocky feel, they also exude a polished sensation. However, let's delve a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can make the most informed decision and choose the switch that best suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Box Black and the SP-Star RedBlue differ in their housing materials. The Ink Box Black features a proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing, while the RedBlue has polycarbonate top and bottom housing. The INK blend of the Ink Box Black provides a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, described as clacky. On the other hand, the polycarbonate used in the RedBlue's housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, with a higher pitch due to its stiffness. Aesthetically, the RedBlue's clear polycarbonate housing is beneficial for those planning to use RGB lighting, as it allows for better light transmission. While the materials differ, both switches offer a satisfying and higher-pitched sound, albeit with slight variations.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Ink Box Black and the RedBlue share similarities. Both switches utilize their respective housing materials to contribute to a relatively high-pitched, yet not overly sharp, sound profile. The INK blend of the Ink Box Black and the polycarbonate of the RedBlue create a thin and clacky sound that provides a satisfying typing experience. Thus, users can expect similar results in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel when using either switch.
However, when it comes to the top housing, the Ink Box Black and the RedBlue diverge in their sound profiles. The INK blend top housing in the Ink Box Black produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, without being excessively sharp. Meanwhile, the polycarbonate top housing in the RedBlue contributes to a sharper and higher-pitched sound, resulting in a crisper sound profile. Therefore, the sound experienced when releasing a key will vary between the two switches. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the slightly softer, yet still clacky sound of the Ink Box Black or the sharper and more resonant sound of the RedBlue.
In summary, the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the SP-Star RedBlue play a significant role in shaping the sound profiles of these switches. While both switches offer a relatively high-pitched, satisfying clacky sound, the Ink Box Black's proprietary INK blend and the RedBlue's polycarbonate housing result in slightly different characteristics. The Ink Box Black provides a pointed and less sharp sound, while the RedBlue delivers a crisper and sharper sound. However, both switches share similarities in their bottom housing, ensuring a consistent and enjoyable bottom-out feel. Whether one prefers the softer sound of the Ink Box Black or the sharper sound of the RedBlue, both switches offer quality options for a pleasing typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, we can see both similarities and differences. The Ink Box Black has an actuation force of 60 grams, while the RedBlue's actuation force is currently unavailable. The Ink Box Black is slightly heavier in terms of actuation force, suggesting a slightly stronger push feel required to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, the RedBlue has a bottom out force of 57 grams, making it lighter than the Ink Box Black's bottom out force of 70 grams. This indicates that the RedBlue provides a slightly lighter typing experience when pressing all the way down.
Considering weight for different preferences, those who prefer a lighter switch may opt for the RedBlue as it allows for longer periods of typing or extended gaming sessions without causing fatigue. However, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Ink Box Black would be the preferable choice due to its heavier actuation force. It is worth noting that without information on the actuation force of the RedBlue, it is difficult to accurately compare their overall performance. Nevertheless, with the information available, it is clear that the Ink Box Black is heavier in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the RedBlue.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, it is evident that the RedBlue has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Ink Box Black has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of what is considered common for travel distances, with the traditional range being 4.0mm and the shallowest being 3.0mm. However, it is worth noting that the shorter travel distance of the Ink Box Black may appeal more to gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper and more substantial key press may find the longer travel distance of the RedBlue switch to be more satisfying. Overall, the choice between the two switches will ultimately depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming 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 SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 subjective qualities of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch can be compared in terms of sound and feel.
In terms of sound, the Ink Box Black is best known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile. It produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the RedBlue is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound. It offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches, with a moderate actuation force requirement. It also has a thocky sound, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying "thud" or "knock" when the key is pressed and released.
In terms of feel, the Ink Box Black is best described as silky and polished. It offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience and minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The switch has a refined finish, resulting in a sleek and smooth key travel. Similarly, the RedBlue switch also offers a polished feel, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. It provides a mild and gentle typing experience, standing in a safe middle-ground zone that is approachable to most.
Based on the available information, the Gateron Ink Box Black and the SP-Star RedBlue switches have distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Box Black offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, along with a silky and polished feel. On the other hand, the RedBlue has a low-pitched and thocky sound, with a polished feel and a mild typing experience. If you are looking for a switch with a sharp and crisp sound, the Ink Box Black may be the preferred choice. If you prefer a deeper, more bass-heavy sound with a gentle typing experience, the RedBlue switch would be a suitable option. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a smooth and creamy typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is the way to go. These switches are known for their clacky sound profile, which produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. If you prefer a higher-pitched sound and want a switch that feels silky and polished, the Ink Box Black is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a lower bottom out force, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is a solid option. These switches are particularly suited for those who prefer a more mellow and bass-heavy sound profile, along with a mild and polished feel. Ultimately, the decision between the Ink Box Black and the RedBlue switch depends on your preference for typing force, sound profile, and typing feel.
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