Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile offer unique experiences for users. The Gateron Ink Box Black is a linear switch that is praised for its smooth and creamy feel, with a sound signature reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile is a tactile switch that combines smoothness with a snappy and perceptible tactile bump, while also boasting a neutral sound signature. Those looking for a clacky, high-pitched, and polished typing experience may lean towards the Ink Box Black, while those seeking a stepped, neutral, and easy-to-press switch might find the WS Light Tactile more appealing. 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
50g
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
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
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile, we see that both switches have unique characteristics based on their top and bottom housing materials. The Ink Box Black features a proprietary INK blend in both the top and bottom housing, creating a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile utilizes polycarbonate for the top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in housing materials gives each switch its own distinct sound signature.
While the top housing materials of the two switches differ, the bottom housing materials also play a significant role in shaping the overall sound profile. The nylon bottom housing of the WS Light Tactile produces a deeper and fuller sound compared to the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Black. Nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile that complements the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. This combination of housing materials in the WS Light Tactile results in a unique typing experience that differs from the clacky sound of the Gateron Ink Box Black.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in a switch can greatly impact the overall sound and typing experience. While the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile both offer distinct sound profiles due to their different housing materials, they each provide a satisfying typing experience in their own right. Whether it be the clacky sound of the Ink Box Black with its INK blend housing or the sharper, crisper sound of the WS Light Tactile with its polycarbonate top housing, enthusiasts are sure to find a switch that suits their preferences based on the unique properties of each housing material.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it medium-heavy in terms of pressure required for keypresses. In comparison, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch is lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This difference in weight makes the WS Light Tactile switch more suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the higher actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Ink Box Black switch provide a more substantial typing feel, ideal for users who prefer a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and pressure.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The difference in travel distance between the two switches may not seem significant, but it can impact the typing experience for some users. Gamers who prioritize quick response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Ink Box Black, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the WS Light Tactile. Both switches offer a different feel and response based on their travel distance, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
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 Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile comes in at $4.20 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 offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken, which may cater to those who enjoy a crisp and sharp keyboard sound. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch provides a neutral sound signature, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. The choice between the two would ultimately come down to personal preference and the desired auditory experience you seek during typing sessions.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is praised for its silky and polished characteristics, ensuring an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience with minimal resistance. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch is described as stepped and easy-to-press, offering a mild tactile bump with gentle resistance, making typing effortless and comfortable while reducing finger fatigue. Again, the decision between the two switches would depend on whether you prefer a smoother typing experience or a more tactile one with a distinct bump feel.
Overall, both the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch have their own unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. If you are seeking a switch with a clacky, high-pitched sound and a silky, polished feel, the Ink Box Black may be the ideal choice for you. Conversely, if you prefer a switch with a neutral sound profile and a stepped, easy-to-press feel, the WS Light Tactile could be more suitable. Remember that individual preferences, typing habits, and the overall setup of your keyboard will ultimately determine which switch will provide the best typing experience for you.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth, creamy typing experience with a clacky, high-pitched sound, the Ink Box Black may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth, snappy typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the WS Light Tactile could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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