Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Gateron Type A mechanical keyboard switches, both stand out as linear switches with unique characteristics. The Ink Box Black is praised for its smooth and creamy feel, reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken, while the Type A is celebrated for its innovative design in Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" series, offering a medium-weight option with factory lubing techniques for a deep sound signature. The Ink Box Black falls into the categories of 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', and 'Polished', while the Type A is categorized as 'Neutral' and 'Subdued'. Each switch has its own strengths that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Gateron Type A, it is clear that they both offer unique sound profiles based on their top housing materials. The Ink Box Black's INK blend top housing is known for its pointed and higher-pitched sound profile, resulting in a satisfying clacky feel. On the other hand, the Type A's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer nature of the nylon material. While both materials provide a distinct typing experience, the INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Black offers a sharper sound compared to the rounder sound of the nylon top housing of the Type A.
Similarly, the bottom housing materials of the Ink Box Black and the Type A also contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Black mirrors the characteristics of its top housing, producing a high-pitched and pointed sound when bottoming out keys. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the Type A absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when keys are pressed. This difference in bottom housing materials further distinguishes the typing experience between the two switches, with the Ink Box Black emphasizing the sharpness of its sound profile while the Type A focuses on a fuller and deeper sound.
In essence, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in a switch plays a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of typing on the keyboard. While the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Gateron Type A use different housing materials for both the top and bottom, they both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The Ink Box Black leans towards a sharper and clackier sound, thanks to its proprietary INK blend, while the Type A provides a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon housing. Regardless of the differences, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their distinct sound profiles.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch differ in weight, with the Ink Box Black being the heavier option. The Ink Box Black has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the Type A has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light option. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Type A switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Ink Box Black for a stronger push sensation. Both switches offer differing weights, catering to users with distinct preferences 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 Gateron Type A linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Type A has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Ink Box Black. The 3.6 mm distance of the Ink Box Black falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it a favorable choice for those looking for a more responsive feel, especially gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Type A provides a slightly deeper sensation when pressing down on the key, appealing to individuals who enjoy a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference for travel distance and the tactile feedback desired for the 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 Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70 per 10 switches.
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 known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound, leaning towards the deeper end of the sound spectrum. The choice between these two switches in terms of sound would ultimately come down to personal preference and whether one prefers a more sharp and percussive sound or a more subtle and dampened sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is praised for its silky and polished typing experience, offering an exceptionally smooth and refined feel with minimized resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Unfortunately, information on the feel of the Gateron Type A linear switch is not available. If the feel of the Type A switch were to be similar to the Ink Box Black, it would also provide a smooth and polished typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Ink Box Black delivers a clacky and high-pitched sound with a silky and polished feel, while the Type A provides a more neutral and subdued sound experience, with the feel information unavailable. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound profiles and typing experiences.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth, creamy feel, along with a clacky, high-pitched sound profile, then the Ink Box Black may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a neutral, subdued sound profile, along with a smooth and refined typing experience, then the Type A switch might be more suited to your needs. Consider how you like your switches to feel and sound, and make your decision based on that. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique qualities and it's all about finding the one that best fits your preferences.
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