Gateron Ink Box Black vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, there are numerous factors to consider, such as the level of smoothness, sound signature, and typing experience. Two popular switches that offer distinct characteristics are the Gateron Ink Box Black, a linear switch, and the SP-Star Duck, a tactile switch. The Ink Box Black is renowned for its incredibly smooth and creamy feel, evoking a sound reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. Categorized as clacky, high-pitched, silky, and polished, this switch provides a unique typing experience for those who prefer linear switches. On the other hand, the Duck switches are perfect for individuals seeking a more subtle tactile typing experience. Offering a gentle tactility and a clean and crispy sound profile, the Duck switches are categorized as neutral, mild, buttery, and polished. However, let's explore further to help you make the best decision on which switch suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
58g
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 housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the SP-Star Duck differ in their composition. The Ink Box Black utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housings. This blend creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, described as clacky. On the other hand, the Duck features polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the clear polycarbonate top housing is beneficial for those planning to use RGB lighting.
While the materials used for the top and bottom housings vary between the Ink Box Black and Duck, they both aim to achieve a similar result. Both the INK blend and polycarbonate help in creating a higher-pitched and resonant sound profile. However, the INK blend is characterized as not overly sharp, while the polycarbonate offers a more clear and crisp sound profile. Additionally, the clear housing of the Duck allows for better visibility of RGB lighting effects, making it an ideal choice for those looking to enhance their keyboard aesthetics.
When it comes to the impact on the overall sound and feel of the switch, the bottom housing of the switch plays a more significant role. The qualities of the INK blend or polycarbonate material in the bottom housing will contribute to the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. Conversely, the top housing will have a greater influence on the sound produced when letting go of a key. So, while the specific housing materials may differ, the impact on the overall switch performance is split between the top and bottom housings in both the Ink Box Black and Duck switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, there are notable differences between the two. The Ink Box Black requires an actuation force of 60 grams, while the actuation force for the Duck is not indicated. However, both switches have a medium level of bottom out force, with the Ink Box Black requiring 70 grams and the Duck requiring 58 grams.
The lighter weight of the Duck switch makes it more suitable for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience. This allows for prolonged typing sessions, making it ideal for work or long gaming sessions where comfort is a priority. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Ink Box Black provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. This can enhance the tactile feedback and responsiveness of the keystrokes, resulting in a more satisfying typing experience.
While the actuation force of the Duck switch is not specified, it can be assumed that it may be lighter than the 60-gram actuation force of the Ink Box Black. However, both switches offer a similar medium level of bottom out force, indicating that users can expect comparable results when it comes to pressing the keys all the way down.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch differ in terms of actuation force. The Ink Box Black is heavier, providing a more substantial typing experience, while the Duck is lighter, allowing for longer typing sessions. However, both switches have a similar medium-level bottom out force, ensuring a satisfying response when pressing the keys all the way down.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the SP-Star Duck tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Duck switch is longer than the Ink Box Black switch. The Duck switch falls into the traditional range of 4.0 mm, while the Ink Box Black switch is slightly shorter. The shorter travel distance of the Ink Box Black switch may be preferred by gamers who value faster response times. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Duck switch may be favored by those who enjoy a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key.
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 Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a clacky and high-pitched sound profile. When pressed, these switches produce a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch has a more neutral sound profile. It produces a clean and crispy sound when pressed, offering a more subtle typing experience. If you prefer a sharper and more vibrant sound, the Ink Box Black would be the better choice. However, if you prefer a more moderate and versatile sound, the Duck switch would be suitable.
When it comes to the feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch offers a silky and polished typing experience. These switches are exceptionally smooth, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel. With reduced friction and smooth key travel, they provide a sleek and refined typing experience. Similarly, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offers a mild and buttery feel. It offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. This provides a seamless and effortless typing sensation, making it approachable for most users. Moreover, both switches are described as polished, indicating a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Box Black has a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and vibrant typing experience. It offers a silky and polished feel with exceptionally smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Duck switch has a more neutral sound profile, producing clean and crispy sound. It offers a mild and buttery feel, allowing for a gentle and seamless typing experience. Therefore, if you prefer a more vibrant and crisp typing experience, the Ink Box Black would be the ideal choice. However, if you prefer a more subtle and versatile typing experience, the Duck switch would be a perfect fit. Note that the sound and feel of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
In closing, if you're someone who prefers a heavier switch and enjoys a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, then the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is the way to go. The medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams provides a satisfying tactile response, while the smooth and polished feel enhances the overall typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more moderate actuation force and a neutral sound profile, then the SP-Star Duck tactile switch would be a better fit. These switches offer a gentle tactile experience and a clean, crispy sound. The mild and polished feel of the Duck switches ensures a comfortable and smooth typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Box Black and SP-Star Duck switches comes down to personal preference for weight, sound, and feel, and both switches offer their own unique qualities to suit different typing preferences.
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