Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Huano Strawberry Latte
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Huano Strawberry Latte switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Huano Strawberry Latte stand out as excellent linear options, each offering a unique typing experience. The Ink Box Black is particularly renowned for its buttery smooth keystrokes, delivering a sound reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken, making it a delight for users who appreciate a clacky, high-pitched sound signature that adds character to their typing. On the other hand, the Huano Strawberry Latte boasts a super smooth performance, utilizing the latest molds for a balanced sound profile that strikes a harmonious chord—not overly loud, yet not too subdued—which appeals to those seeking a more moderate auditory experience. While both switches provide satisfying linear feedback, they cater to different preferences in sound and sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
40g
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
Standard
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Box Black and the Huano Strawberry Latte switches showcase contrasting housing materials that significantly influence their acoustic characteristics and tactile experience. The Ink Box Black features a proprietary INK blend for its top and bottom housings. This material is tailored for a sound profile that is described as pointed, high-pitched, and pleasingly clacky. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte utilizes a POK top housing, known for its excellent smoothness and durability, with enhanced wear resistance compared to typical switch materials. While both switches aim for an engaging auditory feedback, the differences in their top housing materials affect how each switch sounds when keys are released. The Ink Box Black leans toward a sharper, more pronounced sound, while the POK in the Strawberry Latte delivers a characteristically smooth and fluid auditory experience.
Examining the bottom housings reveals further distinctions between the two switches. The Ink Box Black’s bottom housing, constructed from the same proprietary INK blend, maintains the same high-pitched sound profile as the top, creating a consistent auditory feedback throughout the switch. On the contrary, the Huano Strawberry Latte uses nylon for its bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound due to nylon's sound-absorbing properties. This softer plastic dampens vibrations better than the INK blend, resulting in a more rounded auditory profile during key presses. Thus, while both switches provide a clacky sound, the overall experience differs due to the material choices for the bottom housing, promoting a blend of deeper and crisper sounds in the respective switches.
In conclusion, the differing housing materials of the Ink Box Black and Huano Strawberry Latte shapes the user experience, with the top housing primarily influencing the release sound and the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound. While the Ink Box Black offers a consistent pointed sound from both top and bottom housing, the Strawberry Latte’s combination of a smooth POK top and a sound-dampening nylon bottom results in a richer, fuller experience with pronounced contrast between the two types of sound. Even though both switches can achieve clacky acoustic feedback due to their designs, the specific materials used ensure that their sensory feedback remains distinct, catering to different user preferences and potentially leading to varied typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Ink Box Black has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Conversely, the Strawberry Latte boasts a significantly lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for users looking for a lighter touch that is easier on the fingers during extended typing or gaming sessions. As a result, the Ink Box Black is suited for individuals who favor a stronger push feel, while the Strawberry Latte is recommended for users seeking a lighter switch. Thus, the two switches offer distinct experiences, with the Ink Box Black being the heavier option and the Strawberry Latte being the lighter alternative.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch feature the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This equal travel distance means that users can expect similar tactile feedback and actuation point when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch. Consequently, both switches will provide a comparable typing experience, making them suitable for users who prioritize key feel and responsiveness 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 Strawberry Latte has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Latte 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 it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Box Black produces a unique auditory signature reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken, which adds a certain character that some may find enjoyable. It possesses a clacky and high-pitched quality, eliciting crisp and bright sounds during key presses, providing an engaging acoustic feedback during typing. In contrast, the Huano Strawberry Latte has a more balanced sound profile that is neither overly quiet nor excessively resonant. This moderation in sound can appeal to those who prefer a more subdued auditory experience without sacrificing the pleasantness of the switch's sound.
In terms of feel, the Ink Box Black is characterized by its silky and polished nature, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance during key presses. The refined finish promises reduced friction and enhances the overall tactile satisfaction of typing, making it an appealing choice for users who favor a seamless experience. Conversely, the subjective qualities of the Strawberry Latte's feel remain unlisted, leaving users curious about its performance. However, it is known that the latest molds from Huano have been utilized, suggesting a focus on refinement that may translate to a smooth typing experience as well.
In summary, the Gateron Ink Box Black and Huano Strawberry Latte present distinct auditory and tactile experiences. The Ink Box Black excels with its unique clacky and high-pitched sound and exceptionally smooth feel, making it a standout choice for tactile enthusiasts. The Strawberry Latte, while offering a balanced sound profile, leaves some uncertainty in feel, despite its potential advantages from modern mold technology. Users seeking a very smooth typing experience can find satisfaction with either, but the tonal character of the Ink Box Black might be preferable for those who value engaging sound in their typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switches ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy feel that provides a uniquely smooth, creamy experience with a satisfying, clacky sound profile, then the Ink Box Black is an excellent choice for you. Its 70-gram actuation force offers a tactile sensation that ensures each keystroke is deliberate and precise, making it ideal for users who enjoy a more substantial response while typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter 45-gram actuation force, which allows for quicker, effortless typing, the Strawberry Latte may be your best bet. With its balanced sound profile and silky smoothness, this switch is great for extended typing sessions or fast-paced gaming, providing a comfortable and enjoyable experience without overwhelming auditory feedback. Ultimately, assess your typing needs and sound preferences carefully to choose the switch that will best suit your mechanical keyboard experience.
Mentioned in this article
