Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Ink Box Black is celebrated for its smooth and creamy feel, with a sound signature reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) boasts resonant and clacky notes, along with an impeccable factory lube job that enhances the smoothness of each keystroke. While both switches fall under the 'Clacky' and 'Silky' categories, they differ in terms of pitch, with the Ink Box Black being high-pitched and the Strawberry Wine (V2) having a more resonant tone. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
52g
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
Y3
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Box Black and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) both offer unique housing materials for their switches. The Ink Box Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a thin and higher-pitched sound that is described as clacky. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) utilizes a POM top housing that creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. This contrast in sound characteristics can greatly impact the typing experience for users of these switches.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Gateron Ink Box Black once again uses its proprietary INK blend, which results in a similar thin and higher-pitched sound profile. Meanwhile, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) incorporates a nylon bottom housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This difference in bottom housing material can affect the overall sound and feel of the switch during key presses, providing users with varying tactile experiences depending on which switch they choose to use.
While the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) feature different materials, the impact of these materials is felt in different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Despite their differences, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, allowing users to choose the switch that best suits their typing style and preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, it is evident that the Strawberry Wine (V2) is lighter in both aspects. The Ink Box Black has a medium-heavy actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) has a light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Strawberry Wine (V2) makes it easier to trigger keystrokes, ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. 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. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The Ink Box Black offers a slightly longer travel, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial keypress feel. In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2) provides a slightly shorter travel distance for those who prefer a more immediate response. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference for keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Wine (V2) for $4.35.
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 offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile that can be likened to the sharp and crisp noise of a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch provides a combination of clacky, resonant, and high-pitched notes, resulting in a more diverse and immersive auditory experience. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preferences and the setup of the keyboard.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black switch is known for its silky and polished attributes, allowing for an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience. The smoothness of these switches minimizes resistance during key presses and releases, enhancing the overall typing feel. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch is also described as silky, providing a smooth typing experience with its impeccable factory lube job. Both switches prioritize smoothness and comfort during typing, making them ideal choices for users seeking a tactile and satisfying keystroke.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron Ink Box Black and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switches offer subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel, they provide unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer the sharp clackiness of the Gateron switch or the resonant notes of the Sarokeys switch, both options deliver a smooth typing experience that can elevate your overall keyboard usage. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, as well as the desired typing experience for each user.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, the Ink Box Black may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, the Strawberry Wine (V2) could be more suitable. Additionally, if you enjoy a smooth and creamy typing experience with a sound reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken, the Ink Box Black might be your go-to option. However, if you appreciate clacky and resonant notes with impeccable factory lubing for a silky smooth typing experience, the Strawberry Wine (V2) may be the ideal switch for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force.
Mentioned in this article
