Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Wuque Studio WS Morandi
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron Ink Box Black and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi are two linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct characteristics and benefits. The Ink Box Black is renowned for its incredibly smooth and creamy feel, reminiscent of shaking a spray paint can. It has a clacky, high-pitched sound signature and a polished finish. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switches emphasize innovation and visual aesthetics. These ultra-smooth linear switches feature a unique light column that enhances RGB visuals with a mesmerizing effect. With a UPE stem, they provide a dry, airy, and wispy smoothness, differentiating them from the creamy feel of factory-lubed switches. The WS Morandi switches strike the perfect balance between form and function, boasting a medium weight, slightly shortened travel, and a long pole design. They produce a slightly more muted sound profile, characterized by a buttery, low-pitched, silky, subdued, and thocky feel. 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
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi, there are some notable differences. The Ink Box Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which is described as having a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. It provides a satisfying thin and clacky sound. On the other hand, the WS Morandi has a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and relatively more muted sound. This results in a unique and pleasing sound, but it is different from the clacky sound produced by the Ink Box Black.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Ink Box Black and the WS Morandi again have different materials and sound profiles. The Ink Box Black's proprietary INK blend bottom housing contributes to its pointed and high-pitched sound profile, complementing the top housing. Similarly, the WS Morandi has a POM bottom housing, which creates a deeper sound profile. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, and these differences in materials result in distinct experiences when pressing down on the keys.
Despite these differences, there are some similarities between the two housing materials. Both the Ink Box Black and the WS Morandi use unique and proprietary blends for their top and bottom housings, providing a distinctive sound and feel. While the specific characteristics may differ, both switches aim to create a pleasing and satisfying typing experience. Depending on personal preferences, users can achieve similar results in terms of overall satisfaction and enjoyment while using these switches, despite the variations in sound profiles brought about by the different housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, there are some clear similarities and differences to consider. The Ink Box Black has an actuation force of 60 grams, which means that it requires 60 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the WS Morandi is unknown. Both switches have a bottom out force of 60 grams, resulting in a medium level of force required for a full keystroke.
In terms of weight, the lighter option would be the WS Morandi, as its actuation force is unknown. This lighter weight may be preferable for those who type for prolonged periods of time or engage in long gaming sessions, as it helps reduce fatigue.
On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black offers a slightly heavier actuation force of 60 grams. This may appeal to individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience. The additional 10 grams required for bottoming out further adds to the overall heaviness of the switch.
In summary, while the actuation force of the Gateron Ink Box Black is heavier than that of the WS Morandi, both switches have a similar bottom out force of 60 grams. Thus, if a similar typing experience is desired, the WS Morandi can provide comparable results due to its medium weight. However, those seeking a slightly heavier actuation force and a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Gateron Ink Box Black. Ultimately, personal preference and typing style will play a significant role in determining which switch is the better fit.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, it is clear that there is a slight difference. The Ink Box Black has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the WS Morandi has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that have become increasingly popular. Gamers, in particular, tend to favor shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. If you prioritize a more responsive typing or gaming experience, opting for the WS Morandi with its slightly shorter travel distance may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer a deeper keystroke sensation. For those who desire a more substantial feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black with its slightly longer travel distance would be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on 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 Wuque Studio WS Morandi has an MSRP of $4.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Morandi for $3.90.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile. Pressing the keys results in a crisp and bright sound, reminiscent of shaking a can of spray paint. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch offers a more subdued and low-pitched sound. The sound is dampened, providing a more subtle and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Additionally, the WS Morandi switch is described as thocky, producing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed and released. However, it's essential to consider that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black is often described as silky and polished. The switch offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience, minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys, and provides a sleek and refined finish. The WS Morandi switch, on the other hand, offers a buttery and creamy feel. Typing on these switches feels seamless, effortless, and uniform, as if your fingers are gliding across the keys with ease. The UPE stem of the WS Morandi switch contributes to its unique dry, airy, and wispy smoothness, distinct from the creamy feel of factory-lubed switches. Both switches offer a silky typing experience, enhancing the overall smoothness and comfort.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Black and Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Box Black provides a clacky and high-pitched sound profile along with a silky and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Morandi offers a more subdued and low-pitched sound profile, described as thocky, combined with a buttery and creamy feel. While the switches differ in their characteristics, both provide a smooth and satisfying typing experience. Depending on personal preferences and the desired aesthetics for RGB visuals, one can choose between the sharp and crisp sound of the Ink Box Black or the mellow and dampened sound of the WS Morandi, both accompanied by a smooth and effortless typing sensation.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a medium-heavy bottom out force and a clacky, high-pitched sound profile, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches are incredibly smooth and creamy, providing a silky typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and a low-pitched, subdued, thocky sound profile, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch is the way to go. These switches offer innovation combined with visual aesthetics, with a unique dry, airy, and wispy smoothness. Additionally, the WS Morandi switches strike the perfect balance between form and function, providing a luxurious typing sensation. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preferences for force, sound, and feel, allowing you to curate your perfect mechanical keyboard experience.
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