Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Jwick Taro. The Ink Box Black is a linear switch that is best known for its incredibly smooth and creamy feel. Typing on these switches feels like gliding on silk, and the sound it produces resembles the shaking of a spray paint can. On the other hand, the Taro is a tactile switch that offers a cozy typing experience with a medium-level of tactility. The clacks produced by the Taro switches are acute and crisp, providing a satisfying feedback. The Ink Box Black is categorized as clacky, high-pitched, silky, and polished, while the Taro is described as neutral, buttery, and stepped. These general descriptions give us an idea of what each switch offers, but 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Jwick Taro differ in terms of the top housing. The Ink Box Black utilizes a proprietary INK blend top housing, while the Taro features a polycarbonate top housing. Both materials contribute to a relatively higher-pitched sound profile, but with slight variations. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Black is described as clacky and not overly sharp, producing a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Taro creates a sharper and crisper sound, thanks to its stiffer nature. Additionally, the polycarbonate material is especially useful for showcasing RGB lighting due to its translucency.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, the Ink Box Black utilizes the same proprietary INK blend as its top housing. This blend contributes to a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, similar to its top housing. On the other hand, the Taro features a nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall sound and feel of the switch, similarities can be observed. Both the Ink Box Black and the Taro exhibit a higher-pitched sound profile due to their respective top housings. However, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key, while the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. These housing materials play a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience and sound profile of the switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, it is evident that they have some similarities and differences. The Ink Box Black has an actuation force of 60 grams, which is the force required to trigger a keystroke, while the Taro's actuation force is unknown. However, both switches have a bottom out force of medium-heavy, with the Ink Box Black at 70 grams and the Taro at 67 grams.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer lighter switches as it allows them to type for longer periods of time without experiencing fatigue. This lighter weight is especially beneficial for keyboards used during work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, there are those who prefer a more substantial typing experience and desire a stronger push feel. For these individuals, selecting switches with heavier forces would be more suitable.
In terms of actuation force, it is unclear how the Taro compares to the Ink Box Black, as the exact force is unspecified. However, both switches share a medium-heavy bottom out force, making them comparable in terms of the overall typing experience they provide.
Overall, the Ink Box Black can be considered the heavier option with its actuation force of 60 grams and bottom out force of 70 grams, while the Taro's actuation force remains unknown but has a bottom out force of 67 grams. Despite this disparity, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of their medium-heavy bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter range of travel distances compared to the more traditional 4.0 mm and the shallowest 3.0 mm. These shorter travel distances are often favored by gamers who value faster response times. The Ink Box Black would be a suitable choice for those seeking a more responsive feel, while the Taro may be preferred by individuals who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches is subjective and depends on personal preference for travel distance.
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 Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is best known for its smooth and creamy feel. When typing on these switches, users will experience a silky and polished typing experience, with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This is due to the switch's exceptional smoothness and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch provides a buttery and stepped typing experience. These switches offer a seamless, effortless, and uniform sensation when typing, with a mild tactile bump that can be felt during the keystroke.
In terms of sound, the Ink Box Black switch produces a sharp and snappy clack when pressed, resembling the sound of a spray paint can being shaken. It has a high-pitched sound profile, which is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Taro switch has a more neutral sound profile, with a moderate level of acuteness and crispness when typing.
Overall, both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Box Black provides a smooth and polished typing experience with a clacky and high-pitched sound, while the Taro offers a buttery and stepped typing experience with a neutral sound profile. Depending on personal preferences, one can choose between a smoother linear experience or a tactile experience with a mild bump. However, it's important to note that sound and feel can also vary depending on other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps. But considering the provided information, users can expect similar qualities in terms of smoothness and typing experience with both switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and creamy typing experience with a satisfying clacky and high-pitched sound, then the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is the one for you. These switches offer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, making them suitable for those who prefer a slightly heavier feel. Additionally, the Ink Box Blacks have a silky and polished feel, providing enhanced smoothness and reduced friction when typing.
On the other hand, if you prefer a snappy tactile feedback with acute and crisp clacks, the Jwick Taro tactile switch is the better choice. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, these switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a cozy color scheme. The Taro switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes and environments.
Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Jwick Taro switches depends on your personal preference for sound and feel. If you prioritize a smooth and creamy typing experience with a clacky sound, go for the Ink Box Blacks. However, if you prefer a tactile feedback and crisp clacks, the Taro switches are the way to go. Consider your typing style and preferences to find the perfect switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Mentioned in this article
