Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro mechanical keyboard switches, the notable differences between a linear and a tactile switch become evident. The Ink Box Black is celebrated for its smooth and creamy feel, with a sound signature reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro offers a medium tactility with a light touch and a neutral sound signature, providing a balanced typing experience. While the Ink Box Black is categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', 'Polished', the Violet Gold Pro falls under 'Stepped' and 'Neutral'. Both switches have their unique qualities and advantages 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
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro, it is clear that they offer different sound profiles due to their unique materials. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Black provides a high-pitched, clacky sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Violet Gold Pro offers a sharper and crisper sound. The choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference in sound, with the Ink Box Black offering a thinner sound and the Violet Gold Pro providing a more resonant tone.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Ink Box Black utilizes the INK blend material, which contributes to its high-pitched and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro features a nylon bottom housing, leading to a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the INK blend material. This difference in sound quality between the two switches may be a key factor for users when choosing between the two.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro play a crucial role in determining the sound profile of each switch. While the INK blend and polycarbonate materials offer distinct characteristics to the top housing of each switch, the nylon bottom housing of the Violet Gold Pro provides a different typing experience compared to the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Black. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, fuller tone may ultimately influence your decision between these two switches.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, which requires only 45 grams of force to actuate. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Ink Box Black is 70 grams, while the bottom out force of the Violet Gold Pro is unknown. This means that the Ink Box Black provides a more substantial typing experience with a higher actuation and bottom out force, while the Violet Gold Pro offers a lighter touch for those who prefer a smoother typing experience. Those looking for a lighter switch for extended typing sessions may prefer the Violet Gold Pro, while those who enjoy a more robust keystroke may lean towards the Ink Box Black. Both switches offer unique typing experiences, catering to different preferences in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter travel distance range compared to the traditional 4.0 mm. Gamers may prefer the Gateron switch for its slightly shorter travel distance, providing quicker response times during intense gaming sessions. On the other hand, those looking for a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Dareu switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference 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 Dareu Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
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, resembling a sharp and snappy noise similar to a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch offers a neutral sound signature, making it a versatile option suitable for various typing environments. The sound produced by a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard layout and keycaps used, so personal preference will play a role in the overall auditory experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Ink Box Black is praised for its silky and polished typing experience, promoting smooth key presses and minimized resistance. The Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, in contrast, features a stepped tactile profile that provides a balanced typing experience with distinct stages in the keystroke process. The choice between these switches ultimately comes down to individual preferences regarding tactile feedback and typing smoothness.
When considering the subjective qualities of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, it is evident that both switches offer unique characteristics tailored to different preferences. While the Ink Box Black excels in providing a smooth and clacky typing experience, the Violet Gold Pro offers a more neutral and balanced tactile feedback. Depending on whether you prioritize a specific sound profile or tactile response, both switches can deliver satisfactory results based on your personal preferences in mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a smooth and creamy typing experience with a clacky and high-pitched sound signature, the Ink Box Black may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with an unknown bottom out force and a medium tactility that offers a balanced typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Violet Gold Pro could be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize bottom out force, typing feel, sound profile, and tactile feedback when choosing between these two switches.
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