Cherry MX Black vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up in discussions are the Cherry MX Black, a linear switch, and the Gateron Silent Ink Black, also a linear switch. The Cherry MX Black switches are best known for their classic textured smoothness, thanks to Cherry's new Hyperglide tooling. Typing on them gives a familiar deep sound profile, making them a popular choice for many. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches offer a silenced version of the Ink Black switch, making them ideal for environments that require quieter typing. These switches provide a cushion-like bottom-out feel and minimal audio feedback, creating a more muted and polished typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

Cherry MX Black Linear

Gateron Silent Ink Black Linear

$4.00 per 10

$8.50

$8.35 per 10

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Housing materials

The Cherry MX Black and Gateron Silent Ink Black switches have different housing materials, which result in distinct sound profiles. The MX Black has a nylon top housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition. This nylon housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black features Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing. This unique blend produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. Although not overly sharp, it is often described as clacky, offering a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound.

Similarly, the bottom housings of these switches also differ in material composition. The MX Black utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon allows for increased sound absorption compared to harder plastics, contributing to a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black employs Gateron's INK blend bottom housing. This material blend gives rise to a more pointed and relatively high-pitched sound when bottoming out. The bottom housing, therefore, has a significant impact on the resulting sound and feel of the switch.

When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housings, it is essential to note that they play distinct roles in sound production. The qualities brought by each housing material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. Pressing down on either the Cherry MX Black or the Gateron Silent Ink Black will primarily highlight the characteristics of the bottom housing, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the sound produced when letting go of a key is primarily influenced by the properties of the top housing. Therefore, while the housing materials differ, they both contribute to creating unique sound experiences for these switches.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, there are some notable differences to consider. Both switches have an actuation force of 60 grams, meaning that the force required to trigger a keystroke is the same for both. This ensures similar responsiveness and typing experience when using either switch. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a contrast. The Cherry MX Black has a higher bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a heavier and more substantial typing feel. In contrast, the Gateron Silent Ink Black has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 70 grams, which falls in the medium-heavy category.

Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing between these switches. Some individuals prefer a lighter actuation and bottom out force, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. This is particularly desirable for keyboards used in professional settings or during extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, there are those who prefer a stronger push feel, as it offers a more substantial typing experience. For these individuals, opting for switches with heavier forces is recommended. In this case, the Cherry MX Black switch would be the preferred choice due to its heavier bottom out force.

In summary, while both the Cherry MX Black and Gateron Silent Ink Black switches share the same actuation force of 60 grams, the MX Black has a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams compared to the Silent Ink Black's 70 grams. Therefore, individuals seeking a more forceful and substantial typing feel may find the MX Black switch more suitable, whereas those who prefer a slightly lighter option would opt for the Silent Ink Black switch.

Travel distance

The Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar experience when pressing down on a key, as they will need to be pressed down for the same distance in order to register the keystroke. Therefore, whether you choose the Cherry MX Black or the Gateron Silent Ink Black, you can expect a consistent feel and response in terms of travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Cherry MX Black switches are known for their low-pitched sound profile. These switches produce a deep, bass-heavy, and mellow tone when typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches offer a muted sound. These switches are designed to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, resulting in a softer and quieter typing experience. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

Moving on to the feel, Cherry MX Black switches are characterized as textured and stiff. The textured nature of these switches means that they have noticeable friction when pressed, providing a tactile sensation to the typist. Additionally, these switches require a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out, resulting in a more deliberate keypress. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches offer a silky and polished typing experience. These switches are exceptionally smooth, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The polished finish and potential factory lubing contribute to reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Considering the available information, the Cherry MX Black and Gateron Silent Ink Black switches offer distinct subjective qualities. The MX Black switches provide a familiar deep sound profile and a textured, stiff feel. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black switches prioritize quieter typing with a muted sound and a silky, polished feel. It is essential to consider personal preferences when choosing between these switches, as some users may prefer the bass-heavy and tactile nature of the MX Black, while others may favor the quiet and smooth typing experience of the Silent Ink Black. Ultimately, both switches offer unique attributes that cater to different preferences, allowing individuals to customize their typing experience accordingly.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prefer a heavier switch and enjoy a deep sound profile when typing, the Cherry MX Black linear switch would be a good choice for you. With its 80 gram bottom out force and textured feel, it offers a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you need a quieter typing experience and prioritize a cushion-like bottom-out feel, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch would be more suitable for you. With its medium-heavy 70 gram bottom out force and silky, polished feel, it provides a smooth and refined typing experience with minimal audio feedback. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal preferences and the specific typing environment you're looking for.

Mentioned in this article

Cherry MX Black Linear

$4.00 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Silent Ink Black Linear

$8.50

$8.35 per 10

Learn more