Gateron Ink Box Black vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves drawn to unique offerings like the Gateron Ink Box Black and the HMX SU, both of which are linear switches that cater to different preferences. The Ink Box Black is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth and creamy feel, combined with a sound signature that evokes the subtle clack of a spray paint can being shaken—an appealing choice for those who enjoy a tactile experience without the distraction of a loud click. Categories such as 'Clacky,' 'High-pitched,' 'Silky,' and 'Polished' illustrate the switch's well-rounded character, making it suitable for both gamers and typists seeking an immersive experience. Conversely, the HMX SU offers a more understated performance with its full PA12 housing and T5 stem, producing a subtle yet relatively deep sound profile that many users may find sophisticated and pleasant in quieter environments. While both switches serve different auditory and tactile landscapes, they stand out for their unique characteristics that cater to varying personal preferences. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
T5
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Box Black and HMX SU switches feature distinct housing materials that significantly shape their auditory profiles during use. The Ink Box Black utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housings, contributing to a high-pitched, thin sound that many describe as "clacky." This sharp, defined sound is the result of the INK material’s inherent characteristics, which allow for a more pronounced auditory experience, especially upon releasing a key. In contrast, the HMX SU switches are crafted with nylon for both their top and bottom housings. Nylon, known for its softer and more absorbent qualities, produces a deeper and fuller sound profile that tends to resonate with a more rounded tone. This fundamental difference sets the stage for contrasting acoustic experiences when typing on these switches.
When examining the potential impacts of housing materials on performance, the properties of each type play pivotal roles. The Ink Box Black's high-pitched sound emerges prominently due to its top housing, which accentuates the sound upon key release, while the bottom housing maintains this clarity as the keystroke bottoms out. Meanwhile, the nylon construction of the HMX SU enhances sound absorption, providing a more muted auditory feedback, which contributes to a smoother and less jarring typing experience. Given that both switches maintain their respective material types for both top and bottom housings, users will experience consistent characteristics across the keystroke cycle for each model. The differentiation of sound profiles evoked by the two materials ultimately offers typists varied sensory experiences.
Despite these contrasts, both switches aim to achieve satisfying auditory feedback tailored to different preferences. Users of the Ink Box Black will enjoy a crisper sound that is ideal for those who appreciate a more pronounced auditory signal when typing, making it suitable for an engaging typing experience. The HMX SU, with its deeper sound profile, appeals more to users who favor a warmer experience that masks the sharper sounds, lending itself to a quieter environment. Ultimately, understanding these nuances allows consumers to choose their desired switch based on personal auditory preferences, leading to an informed decision when selecting between the distinctive acoustic signatures of the Gateron Ink Box Black and HMX SU switches.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch to the HMX SU linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that cater to varying user preferences. The Ink Box Black features an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the HMX SU is significantly lighter, boasting an actuation force of just 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This lighter feel may appeal to users who engage in extended typing or gaming sessions, allowing for reduced fatigue. Conversely, those who prefer a more substantial keystroke will find the heavier Ink Box Black more satisfying. Ultimately, while the actuation and bottom out forces of the two switches differ considerably, users can expect a distinctly different typing experience, with the SU providing a lighter touch and the Ink Box Black delivering a firmer push.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable tactile experience when pressing down on either switch, resulting in similar key feel and performance. Since both switches achieve the same travel distance, they will provide consistent feedback and actuation height, making them equally suitable for those who prefer a linear switch feel.
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 HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is characterized by a unique auditory profile that is reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken, giving it a distinctive and somewhat clacky tone. This switch notably produces a high-pitched sound, which can be sharp and crisp, appealing to those who prefer a more prominent acoustic feedback from their keyboard. On the other hand, the HMX SU switch features a more subtle sound profile, described as relatively deep, though specific descriptors of its sound quality haven’t been provided. This might suggest that the SU is quieter and less prominent than the Ink Box Black, which could be preferable for users looking for a more discreet typing experience. Ultimately, while both switches can produce enjoyable sounds, the Ink Box Black provides an engaging acoustic presence that contrasts with the reserved nature of the SU.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black switches shine with a silky and polished typing experience. Users will appreciate the exceptionally smooth key travel and reduced friction, which is largely attributed to the materials and possibly factory lubrication. This results in a typing sensation that feels refined and effortless. Unfortunately, there isn’t much information regarding the feel of the HMX SU switches, leaving this quality unknown. However, if the SU switches are crafted with similar attention to detail and quality as the Ink Box Black, they may also provide a pleasant and smooth typing experience.
In summary, the Gateron Ink Box Black offers a lively sound and a luxuriously smooth feel, making it a standout option for those seeking an engaging typing experience. While the HMX SU's sound and feel details remain unclear, they appear to present a contrasting option with a focus on subtlety and possibly more muted acoustic qualities. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback—the Ink Box Black delivers a vibrant and polished feel, while the SU might appeal to users looking for a quieter and more subdued alternative.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, consider your typing preferences and the overall feel you're aiming for. If you prefer a heavier tactile experience with a bottom-out force of 70 grams, combined with a uniquely smooth and creamy feel akin to a polished surface, the Ink Box Black would be an excellent choice for you. Its clacky and high-pitched sound profile adds an engaging auditory aspect to your typing experience, making it suitable for users who enjoy a more pronounced feedback while typing. On the other hand, if you're looking for a lighter touch, the 50-gram bottom-out force of the HMX SU will allow for quicker typing with less strain. Featuring a subtle and deep sound profile, the SU is ideal for those who value a quieter typing environment without sacrificing the quality of feel, thanks to the full PA12 housing. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you lean more towards tactile feedback and auditory crispness or preferring a lighter, subdued typing experience.
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