Gateron Ink Box Black vs. TTC Yunhai
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the TTC Yunhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Box Black and the TTC Yunhai both offer attractive options for enthusiasts seeking a smooth, linear typing experience. The Ink Box Black stands out with its incredibly silky and polished feel, providing a clacky, high-pitched sound signature reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken—ideal for those who enjoy a more tactile auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai presents a gentle yet distinct typing experience, featuring a deep, rounded sound profile combined with a surprisingly light actuation force, making it especially suitable for typists who favor a more effortless, gliding touch without the additional noise. Each switch has its merits: the Ink Box Black boasts a unique auditory sensation that can enhance the overall typing experience, while the Yunhai excels in providing a low-effort keystroke that can reduce fatigue during long typing sessions. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 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
POK
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the TTC Yunhai, notable differences emerge in their sound profiles, which are largely attributable to the materials used in both the top and bottom housings. The Ink Box Black features a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housings, which is specifically engineered to produce a thin, high-pitched sound that many describe as clacky. This specific sound profile is a result of the properties of the INK blend, allowing for a pointed and somewhat sharp auditory experience. In sharp contrast, the Yunhai uses nylon for both its top and bottom housings, a material known for generating a deeper, fuller sound due to its softer composition. This softness allows nylon to absorb sound more effectively than the harder INK blend, resulting in a sound that is rounder and significantly less sharp.
Moreover, the impact of these materials on the switch's overall typing experience cannot be overlooked. While the Ink Box Black maintains a consistent high-pitched sound across both top and bottom housings, enhancing the overall clacky auditory response, the Yunhai’s use of nylon introduces a more diverse sound experience that is characterized by a combination of both deeper and softer sounds that resonate differently based on the typing dynamics. When typing on the Ink Box Black, users will notice a sharpness during both the keypress and release actions, whereas the Yunhai offers a fuller sound that becomes more pronounced when keys are released, reflecting the material's ability to mellow out sound during this phase.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron Ink Box Black and TTC Yunhai switches offer engaging typing experiences, their distinct material choices lead to divergent sound profiles and tactile characteristics. Those seeking a more lively and clacky sound will find satisfaction in the Ink Box Black's proprietary INK blend, while those who prefer a more rounded and muted typing experience might opt for the Yunhai's nylon construction. Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in each switch affects the auditory and tactile sensations during both key presses and releases, creating unique yet enjoyable experiences suitable for different user preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Ink Box Black requires an actuation force of 60 grams and has a bottom out force of 70 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Yunhai switch features a significantly lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a more suitable option for users who prefer a lighter touch while typing or gaming. The difference in forces means that users who favor a stronger push feel may gravitate towards the Ink Box Black, while those looking for ease of use during extended sessions might opt for the Yunhai. Overall, the ink Box Black is the heavier of the two switches, while the Yunhai offers a more effortless and lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch feature an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing down on either switch, users will experience the same amount of key travel, resulting in similar feel and feedback during typing or gaming. Since both switches have the same travel distance, users can expect a consistent experience in terms of key actuation and responsiveness, making either option suitable for those who prefer a linear switch with a uniform travel distance.
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 TTC Yunhai has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yunhai for $5.99.
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 delivers a notable auditory experience characterized by a clacky and high-pitched profile. This produces a sharp, bright, and percussive sound that can be likened to the unmistakable sound of a spray paint can being shaken. Those who enjoy a crisper, more resonant sound may find the Ink Box Blacks particularly appealing. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai linear switch is less characterized in this context, but it contributes to a distinct typing experience with its deep, rounded sound profile. This deeper tone may resonate well with typists looking for a fuller audio experience, although specific descriptors for the Yunhai's sound compared to the Ink Box Black remain undefined.
When discussing the feel, the Ink Box Black excels with its silky and polished typing experience. These characteristics translate to a remarkably smooth action, minimizing resistance as keys are pressed and released. This smoothness is often a result of high-quality materials and effective lubing, ensuring a refined tactile journey that many users find enjoyable. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai linear switch is noted for its gentle and effortless actuation force, making it exceptionally light to type on. This can be particularly advantageous for typists who prefer a more delicate touch, although a detailed description of its tactile feedback is not available, indicating that users may need to try it to fully appreciate its qualities.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Ink Box Black and TTC Yunhai linear switches offer unique qualities suited to different preferences. The Ink Box Black is well-regarded for its smooth feel and a bright, lively sound signature, making it ideal for those who enjoy an engaging auditory experience along with a refined typing action. The Yunhai, while less defined in terms of sound, promises a deep, rounded auditory profile and a light touch that can accommodate typists seeking ease and comfort. Overall, while there are distinct features present in each switch, both can cater to different typing styles, ensuring that newcomers to mechanical keyboards can find a switch that aligns with their personal preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, your choice between the Gateron Ink Box Black and the TTC Yunhai linear switches should be guided by your typing preferences and overall keyboard experience you seek. If you enjoy a more substantial feel and appreciate a medium-heavy bottom-out force, the Ink Box Black switch is an excellent option. Its creamy smoothness, clacky sound profile, and silky texture provide a tactile feedback that many find satisfying, making it well-suited for both daily typing and gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and a more effortless typing experience, the TTC Yunhai is the way to go. With its lower actuation force and rounded sound profile, it can make long typing sessions feel less taxing and offer a gentle, smooth feel that many typists appreciate. Ultimately, consider how each switch aligns with your priorities, whether it's the weight of the switch, the sound it produces, or the overall tactile experience you desire.
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