Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Jerrzi Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Jerrzi Violet present two distinct options for users looking for a specific typing experience. The Gateron Ink Box Black is a linear switch, known for its smooth and creamy feel with a sound signature akin to a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet is a tactile switch, offering a gentle and pleasingly poppy tactility with a neutral sound signature. If you prefer a clacky, high-pitched, silky, and polished typing experience, the Ink Box Black may be the switch for you. However, if you enjoy a stepped and neutral feel while typing, the Jerrzi Violet could be the better choice. As always, it's important to delve deeper into the specific characteristics of each switch to determine which one best suits your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Yes
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Jerrzi Violet, it is clear that they offer distinct sound profiles due to their different materials. The INK blend top housing of the Gateron switch provides a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Violet switch creates a sharper and crisper sound. The INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Black contributes to its clacky sound profile, whereas the nylon bottom housing of the Violet switch elicits a deeper and fuller sound. Overall, the choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prefer a sharper sound with polycarbonate or a softer sound with nylon.
Additionally, the material used in the top housing of a switch can have a significant impact on its aesthetic appeal. The translucent property of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, whereas the INK blend top housing of the Gateron switch provides a more subdued appearance. This difference in appearance may influence your decision depending on your preference for RGB lighting and overall design. Both switches offer unique visual characteristics that cater to different preferences in terms of aesthetics and customization.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Jerrzi Violet will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and visual appeal. While the INK blend top housing of the Gateron switch produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, the polycarbonate top housing of the Violet switch creates a sharper and crisper sound. Likewise, the bottom housing materials of nylon and INK blend offer distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback. Whether you prioritize sound quality, aesthetics, or typing feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The actuation force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is heavier, at 60 grams, compared to the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch's 45 grams. This means that the Ink Box Black requires more force to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Ink Box Black is also heavier at 70 grams, while the Violet's bottom out force is unknown. The heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Ink Box Black suggest that it may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the lighter actuation force of the Violet may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference for typing feel and force requirement.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is slightly shorter than the 3.7 mm travel distance of the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch. Both switches fall within the range of 3.0 to 4.0 mm, with the Ink Box Black being on the shorter end and the Violet being slightly longer. Gamers may appreciate the shorter travel distance of the Ink Box Black for quicker response times, while those who prefer a deeper press may lean towards the Jerrzi Violet. Ultimately, the travel distance preference comes down to individual comfort and typing style. So even though the two switches have slightly different travel distances, users can expect similar performance in terms of key travel.
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 Jerrzi Violet has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet for $2.30.
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 switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, reminiscent of a sharp and snappy noise like that of a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet switch provides a more neutral sound, offering a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, suitable for various typing preferences. Ultimately, the sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black switch is often described as silky and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Jerrzi Violet switch is characterized as stepped, offering a tactile feedback that feels like it has two stages, providing a gentler tactile sensation compared to a hypertactile switch with a single large bump.
Taking all the available information into account, while the Gateron Ink Box Black switch excels in providing a clacky and high-pitched sound with a silky and polished feel, the Jerrzi Violet switch offers a more neutral sound with a stepped tactile feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, and selecting between the two will ultimately depend on the individual's preferences for sound and tactile feedback. It is important to consider these subjective qualities alongside factors such as typing style, preference for noise level, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and creamy typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a clacky, high-pitched sound profile, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. However, if you prefer a gentle tactile switch with a pleasingly poppy tactility, a balanced and enjoyable typing experience, and a neutral sound profile, then the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch would be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferred typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force to ensure a satisfying and personalized typing experience.
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