Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Huano Sakura
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Huano Sakura 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 Huano Sakura both present enticing options for users seeking smooth and enjoyable typing experiences. The Ink Box Black is renowned for its incredibly smooth and creamy feel, paired with a unique sound signature reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate a clacky, high-pitched auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura switches offer a feather-light touch and medium acoustics, which is particularly beneficial for extended typing sessions where comfort and ease are paramount. While both switches are linear in design, catering to different preferences in tactile feedback and sound, each offers distinct advantages that cater to varying typing styles. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Huano Sakura, it is evident that the properties of each contribute distinctly to the overall switch experience. The Ink Box Black features a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, which is noted for its pointed, high-pitched sound profile often described as clacky. This sound characteristic sets it apart from standard materials while still allowing for a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura incorporates a polyketone (POK) top housing that is also designed with sound in mind, but it offers a smoother tactile feel due to its lower coefficient of friction and exceptional wear resistance compared to traditional materials like POM. As a result, while both materials contribute to a vibrant sound profile, the unique qualities of INK blend and POK create differing auditory experiences.
In terms of the bottom housings, the two switches diverge further in material composition. The Ink Box Black also utilizes the INK blend for its bottom housing, which continues to reinforce that higher-pitched sound profile throughout the keystroke. In contrast, the Sakura features a nylon bottom housing, known for its softer characteristics that absorb sound effectively, leading to a fuller, rounder sound when typing. This difference highlights how the bottom housing has a significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, where the Ink Box Black maintains a consistent clacky resonance, while the Sakura offers a deeper auditory experience. Consequently, the sonic feedback produced by both switches, whether from a clacking or a rounder tone, underscores the impact of the materials used in the construction of each housing.
Ultimately, while the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Huano Sakura utilize different materials for their housings, both can result in satisfying results tailored to individual typing preferences. The high-pitched, clacky sound of the Ink Box Black comes primarily from the INK blend present in both the top and bottom housings, yielding a cohesive auditory profile. Conversely, the Sakura leverages the contrasting smoothness of POK in the top and the sound-absorbing properties of nylon in the bottom to create a depth-filled typing experience. Since each switch has its unique audio and tactile identity, users may opt for one over the other based on their desired typing preferences. However, the foundational understanding of how housing materials influence sound and feel remains pivotal in both designs.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, there is a notable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Ink Box Black features a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, which provides a more substantial typing experience that some users may appreciate for its tactile feedback. In contrast, the Huano Sakura switch offers a much lighter feel with an actuation force of only 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for prolonged typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, while the Ink Box Black is better suited for users who desire a heavier switch for a more deliberate keystroke, the Sakura is perfect for those looking for comfort and ease of use with its significantly lighter actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch feature an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that users will experience the same key travel feel when pressing either switch down, resulting in a consistent tactile response across both options. Since the travel distance is equal, one can expect similar typing experiences in terms of depth and feedback, making either switch a suitable choice for those who prefer a linear feel without the distinct actuation points found in other switch types. Overall, the parity in travel distance ensures that users will achieve comparable results when using these switches in their keyboards.
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 Huano Sakura has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sakura for $3.29.
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 examining the sound characteristics of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Huano Sakura switches, the Ink Box Black distinctly offers a sound profile reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken, conveying a clacky and high-pitched audio experience. This sharp and crisp sound contributes to its percussive nature, making it a noisy yet engaging option characterized by a bright resonance. In contrast, the Sakura switches have a medium acoustic profile that is ideally suited for extended typing sessions; however, specific sound descriptors for the Sakura are not provided. This suggests that while the Sakura might not offer a dynamic auditory experience like the Ink Box Black, its quieter acoustics offer a more subdued typing environment.
Focusing on the feel of each switch, the Ink Box Black is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth and silky typing experience, providing a polished sensation that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This refined finish enhances the overall smoothness of each keystroke, resulting in reduced friction throughout the typing process. On the other hand, the feel characteristics of the Sakura switches are not explicitly detailed, which could indicate that they may not share the same level of smoothness that the Ink Box Black offers. Depending on personal preference, newcomers may find the differences in tactile feedback notable.
In summary, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switches present a vibrant auditory profile with a smooth, pleasant typing feel, making them ideal for those who enjoy a lively typing experience. In contrast, while the Huano Sakura linear switches are designed for comfort during extensive typing sessions, their sound profile and tactile feel remain less defined. Therefore, though both switches are linear, the Ink Box Black strikes a lively chord while the Sakura offers a more neutral presence, potentially appealing to those who prioritize different aspects of the typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing between the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Huano Sakura linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a firmer typing experience with a medium-heavy feel, the Ink Box Black is the way to go. With its 70-gram bottom-out force, this switch provides satisfying tactile feedback and an incredibly smooth, polished typing experience, making it excellent for those who enjoy a solid keystroke sensation, especially during gaming or intense typing sessions. You’ll appreciate the clacky, high-pitched sound signature that adds a fun auditory dimension to your keystrokes. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or find yourself prioritizing comfort, the Huano Sakura’s 45-gram actuation force may suit you better. Its feather-light feel, combined with medium acoustics, enhances extended usage without causing finger fatigue, making it a stellar choice for writers or anyone who spends significant time at the keyboard. In essence, your choice should align with whether you seek a robust, engaging typing experience or a more gentle, effortless touch.
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