Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference for sound and feel, especially among linear options such as the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Wuque Studio WS POM+. The Ink Box Black is renowned for its incredibly smooth and creamy keystrokes, producing a unique sound signature reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken; it offers a clacky, high-pitched tone that some users find exhilarating and engaging while typing. On the other hand, the WS POM+ impresses with its all-POM construction, providing a deeper, satisfying "thock" sound accompanied by a buttery-smooth response, ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic feedback with each keystroke. While both switches excel in offering a bold linear experience, they cater to different auditory and tactile preferences, making them suitable for diverse 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
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
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
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Wuque Studio WS POM+, one notable distinction is the choice of materials used in each switch. The Gateron Ink Box Black employs a proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housings, characterized by a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. This results in a satisfying, thin, and clacky sound experience, which is amplified by the consistent acoustic properties of the INK blend throughout the switch. Conversely, the WS POM+ utilizes POM (Polyoxymethylene) for both top and bottom housings, leading to a deeper and more muted sound profile. This inherent quality of POM contributes to a unique auditory experience that contrasts with the sharper note produced by the INK blend.
Despite these material differences, both switches share a propensity to deliver distinct sound profiles that separate the top and bottom housing's contributions. The top housing of the Ink Box Black, with its INK material, is primarily responsible for the sound produced upon releasing a key. It generates a nuanced, higher-pitched tone that harmonizes with the overall clackiness of the switch. In comparison, the POM top housing of the WS POM+ focuses on creating a more subdued sound, which complements the deeper audio signature of its bottom housing. Additionally, by closely examining how each housing material interacts during key presses, one can appreciate how the bottom housing's acoustics heavily influence the bottom-out sound and feel, resulting in a richer interaction with the switch.
Ultimately, while the Gateron Ink Box Black and Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches exhibit different acoustic properties due to the variation in their housing materials, they both curate unique auditory experiences tailored to their respective sound profiles. Users of the Ink Box Black will benefit from a bright and sharp sound while the WS POM+ offers a deep, muted sound that some may find equally enjoyable. If one looks for a specific sound characteristic, both switches can deliver satisfying results, albeit through different auditory channels—clacky and pointed versus deep and muted—each resonating with distinct user preferences.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch exhibit contrasting actuation and bottom out forces, which influence their overall typing experience. The Ink Box Black requires a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy option suitable for those who prefer a more substantial push and tactile feedback during use. In contrast, the WS POM+ features a significantly lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. This lighter force allows for easier key presses, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons for those who favor a less strenuous key feel. With these differences, the Ink Box Black is better suited for users who enjoy a firmer typing sensation, while the WS POM+ caters to those seeking a smoother, less demanding experience.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch have an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing down on the keys, users will experience the same distance of travel, resulting in similar tactile feedback and responsiveness during use. Since both switches share the same travel distance, typists and gamers alike can expect comparable performance in terms of actuation and bottoming out. Therefore, those who prefer either switch can enjoy a consistent typing experience without any differences in travel distance influencing their choice.
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 POM+ comes in at $3.90 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
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a unique sound signature that evokes the sound of a spray paint can being shaken, resulting in a clacky, high-pitched auditory experience. This character gives it a sharp and snappy sound when keys are pressed, producing a sound profile that many typists find engaging. While the Ink Box Blacks may not be the quietest option available, their sound can be quite satisfying for those who appreciate a brighter auditory experience in their typing. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switch is known for a deep, satisfying thock sound, which is generally regarded as more bass-heavy and refined compared to the Ink Box Black. This switch’s sound profile offers a rich and full auditory experience, which enhances the emotional satisfaction of typing on it. Both switches, however, are influenced by factors like your choice of board and keycaps, which can impact their overall sound output.
In terms of feel, the Ink Box Black switches shine with their exceptionally smooth and creamy typing experience. They are characterized by a silky and polished sensation, reducing resistance as your fingers glide across the keys. This smoothness is a result of either the materials used or effective factory lubrication, ensuring an enjoyable typing feel that minimizes friction. On the other hand, details about the feel of the WS POM+ remain unknown. However, switches made from POM materials are often recognized for their smooth action and durability, which may hint at a high-quality feel as well.
In summary, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch excels in delivering a vibrant sound and an incredibly smooth typing experience, characterized by its clacky and high-pitched tones, coupled with a silky, polished feel. In contrast, the WS POM+ offers a deeper thock sound—likely providing a different aural pleasure—and potentially features a smooth feel typical of POM switches. Depending on personal preference, both switches present unique qualities, making them attractive options for different types of users looking for varied auditory and tactile typing experiences.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, your choice should be guided by your personal preferences in typing feel, force, and sound profile. If you enjoy a heavier actuation force and a sound reminiscent of a clacky spray paint can, the Ink Box Black, with its medium-heavy 70-gram bottom-out force, is an excellent option. Its silky and polished typing experience offers a creamy smoothness that’s perfect for those who take pleasure in the tactile feedback of deeper keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch for faster typing and a more subdued yet satisfying "thock" sound, then the WS POM+ should be your go-to. With its 55-gram bottom-out force, it provides a very responsive feel and buttery-smooth keystrokes that glide effortlessly during use. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style, whether you lean toward the weighty and striking sensation of the Ink Box Black or the nimble and rich auditory experience offered by the WS POM+.
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