Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Dareu Snow both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Ink Box Black is a linear switch that is highly praised for its smooth and creamy feel, making typing a delightful experience. It is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound signature, reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow also boasts a linear switch design but stands out with its innovative use of POK material for the top housing and stem, resulting in a deeper sound signature. Categorized as thocky, neutral, low-pitched, and bouncy, the Snow switch offers a different typing experience compared to the Ink Box Black. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
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
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Dareu Snow, it is clear that they both prioritize sound quality and durability. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Black is known for its clacky and higher-pitched sound profile, while the POK top housing of the Snow offers a smooth and clacky sound. Both materials are designed to enhance the typing experience by providing a satisfying sound feedback. However, the Snow's POK material boasts superior durability with wear resistance 14 times stronger than POM, making it a top choice for those looking for long-lasting switches.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Ink Box Black features the same proprietary INK blend as the top housing, emphasizing a consistent sound profile throughout the switch. Contrastingly, the Snow's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. While the INK blend provides a consistent clacky sound, the nylon bottom housing of the Snow creates a duller and rounder sound that may appeal to users looking for a softer typing experience. Both housing materials contribute significantly to the overall sound and feel of the switches, showcasing the importance of material choice in mechanical keyboards.
Overall, while the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Dareu Snow use different housing materials for their switches, they both prioritize sound quality and durability. The INK blend top and bottom housing of the Ink Box Black provide a consistent and clacky sound profile, while the POK top and nylon bottom housing of the Snow offer a smooth and deep sound experience. Whether you prefer a sharper clacky sound or a softer fuller sound, both switches offer high-quality materials that enhance the typing experience. In the end, the choice between the two will ultimately come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, it is evident that the Snow is the lighter option with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Ink Box Black is the heavier option with an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams. The difference in weight between the two switches may appeal to different preferences among users. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may opt for the Snow, while users who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may lean towards the heavier Ink Box Black. Both switches provide a medium actuation force, but the Ink Box Black requires slightly more force to bottom out compared to the Snow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dareu Snow linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The shorter travel distance of the Snow switch may appeal to those seeking a more responsive feel, while the slightly longer travel distance of the Ink Box Black switch could provide a more distinct tactile experience for those who prefer a deeper keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
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 Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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 it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, resembling the crisp and bright noise of a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch offers a deeper sound signature, described as thocky, neutral, and low-pitched. This results in a more bass-heavy and mellow tone when typing. Ultimately, the sound preference will come down to personal taste, with the Ink Box Black providing a sharp and snappy auditory experience, while the Snow switch delivers a richer and deeper sound.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black switch is described as silky and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance. Conversely, the Dareu Snow switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that gives keys a lively feel with rebound upon pressing. Both switches prioritize a smooth typing experience, but the Ink Box Black focuses on a refined and polished finish, while the Snow switch emphasizes a bouncy and elastic feedback.
Overall, if you enjoy a clacky and high-pitched sound combined with a silky and polished feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper, thocky sound with a bouncy and lively feel, the Dareu Snow linear switch would be more suited to your preferences. Keep in mind that the choice between these switches will also depend on your choice of keyboard and keycaps, as these factors can influence the overall sound and feel of the switches. Ultimately, both switches are excellent options for a smooth linear typing experience, offering different sound and feel qualities to cater to a variety of preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a smooth and creamy feel alongside a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium switch with an innovative use of POK material, resulting in a deeper sound profile and a bouncy feel, then the Dareu Snow linear switch is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize feel, sound, or a combination of both in your typing experience.
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