Gateron Ink Box Black vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Black and the HMX Swift mechanical keyboard switches, both switches offer a smooth typing experience. The Ink Box Black is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound signature, providing a polished feel that is reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the Swift switch stands out with a deeper sound profile thanks to its full nylon housings, offering a silky smoothness that complements its delicate 42g actuation force. While the Ink Box Black is silky and polished, the Swift switch is known for being bouncy and easy-to-press. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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 extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the HMX Swift both offer unique sound profiles when typing. The Ink Box Black's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a thinner and higher-pitched sound, described as clacky, while the Swift's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. This difference in sound can be attributed to the properties of the materials used - the INK blend being pointed and higher-pitched, and the nylon being softer and more sound absorbent.
In terms of bottom housing, both switches also exhibit distinct sound profiles. The Ink Box Black's INK blend bottom housing shares similar characteristics with its top housing, providing a pointed and higher-pitched sound. On the other hand, the Swift's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, contributing to the overall typing experience. The different properties of the housing materials result in unique sound and feel when typing on these switches.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the HMX Swift play a crucial role in shaping the sound and feel of the switches. While the INK blend top and bottom housing of the Ink Box Black provide a consistent sound profile, the nylon top and bottom housing of the Swift offer a fuller and deeper typing experience. Despite their differences, both switches excel in delivering a satisfying and unique typing feel, showcasing the impact that housing materials can have on the overall switch performance.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a higher actuation force and bottom out force compared to the HMX Swift linear switch. The Ink Box Black requires 60 grams of force to actuate a keystroke and 70 grams to bottom out, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Swift only needs 42 grams to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter option. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Swift for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the heavier force of the Ink Box Black. Both switches offer different weights to cater to individual preferences, providing a variety of options for users seeking the perfect switch for their typing needs.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. This means that the Swift has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Ink Box Black. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal choices for those seeking faster response times, especially in gaming scenarios. Gamers may prefer the slightly shorter travel distance of the Ink Box Black for quick and precise inputs. On the other hand, the Swift's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more substantial feel when typing, appealing to those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding travel distance and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift for $2.99.
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 and the HMX Swift switches both offer a clacky sound profile. However, the Ink Box Black is described as having a high-pitched sound, reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken, while the Swift provides a deeper sound due to its full nylon housing. Both switches will provide a sharp and crisp typing experience, with the choice of board and keycaps playing a role in the overall sound produced.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Ink Box Black is praised for its silky and polished typing experience, offering minimal resistance and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the HMX Swift switches are described as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy. The Swift's light actuation force and bouncy feedback make typing effortless and comfortable, while the creamy sensation provides a buttery smooth typing experience. Depending on personal preference, users may enjoy the silkiness of the Ink Box Blacks or the light and bouncy feel of the Swift switches.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Ink Box Black and HMX Swift switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the Ink Box Blacks provide a high-pitched sound and a silky typing experience, the Swift switches feature a deeper sound profile and a light and bouncy feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on whether one prefers a sharper sound with minimal resistance or a deeper sound with light actuation force. Users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch, but should consider their personal preferences when making a decision.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it's important to consider your preferences for typing feel and sound. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth, creamy typing experience with a clacky and high-pitched sound, the Gateron Ink Box Black may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a silky smooth typing feel with an easy-to-press and feathery sensation, along with a clacky sound profile, the HMX Swift could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound characteristics.
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