Cherry MX Orange vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Orange and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two prominent options are the Cherry MX Orange and the Gateron Silent Ink Black, both of which offer unique characteristics suited to different preferences and environments. The Cherry MX Orange switches, renowned for their revival of the original MX Orange switches made by Cherry's partner, Hirose, deliver a satisfying tactile experience with smooth linear action, making them ideal for gamers and typists seeking responsiveness without the noise typically associated with their tactile counterparts. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches provide a quieter typing experience, perfect for shared workspaces or late-night gaming sessions. With a cushy, pillow-like bottom-out feel and minimal audio feedback, these switches cater to those who prioritize tranquility without sacrificing performance. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your individual needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Orange and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches, notable differences emerge that significantly influence their auditory profiles. The Cherry MX Orange utilizes a traditional nylon material for both its top and bottom housings. This nylon is softer and absorbs sound effectively, resulting in a deeper, fuller acoustic experience. In contrast, the Gateron Silent Ink Black features a proprietary INK blend for its housing—which likely incorporates various materials to produce a distinct sound. The INK blend is designed to create a higher-pitched, clacky sound profile, differing considerably from the muted tones of the nylon utilized in the Cherry MX Orange.
The distinction in materials between the two switches greatly impacts their overall sound experience. The nylon of the MX Orange contributes to a sound that is rounded and less penetrating, absorbing some of the high frequencies that might otherwise resonate in a switch. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black's INK blend, while not overly sharp, focuses on producing a pointed sound that is distinctively different from the MX Orange's fuller tones. This means that while the MX Orange might offer a satisfying typing experience with less auditory distraction, the Silent Ink Black caters to those who prefer a more pronounced and lively sound when typing.
In scenarios where the top and bottom housing materials differ, the specific auditory characters of each influence the overall sound perception during typing. Since the MX Orange is consistent in its use of nylon throughout both the top and bottom housings, its deep tones are present across the entire switch action. The Silent Ink Black, however, introduces a contrast; the top housing's INK blend sharpens the typing experience, particularly when releasing keys. While both switches have unique characteristics shaped by their materials, the nuance in auditory cues allows for different experiences. Users who appreciate a fuller, subtler typing sound may prefer the MX Orange, while those seeking a more lively and resonant sound may gravitate towards the Silent Ink Black.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Cherry MX Orange requires an actuation force of 55 grams, while the Gateron Silent Ink Black has a slightly heavier actuation force of 60 grams. This means that the Silent Ink Black requires more effort to register a key press, which may be preferable for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. However, the bottom out force for the Cherry MX Orange is unknown, while the Silent Ink Black reaches a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams. Without knowing the bottom out force for the Cherry MX Orange, it is difficult to make a complete comparison regarding the overall resistance felt when fully pressing down on the switch. In terms of weight preference, the Cherry MX Orange is the lighter switch, making it ideal for users seeking comfort during extended typing or gaming sessions, while the Gateron Silent Ink Black may suit those who appreciate a firmer push feel. Therefore, while the Cherry MX Orange might be more suitable for those who prioritize comfort and stamina, the Silent Ink Black could cater to users looking for a bit more resistance in their keystrokes.
Travel distance
Both the Cherry MX Orange and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that users can expect a similar tactile experience when pressing down on either switch. This equal travel distance results in comparable actuation feel and depth, contributing to a consistent typing experience. Therefore, if you're looking for a switch that offers the same travel results, both options will meet those expectations perfectly.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
The Gateron Silent Ink 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 Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
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 Cherry MX Orange switch is not explicitly described; however, it's generally known for producing a moderate level of sound associated with traditional mechanical switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch is specifically designed for quieter operation, making them well-suited for environments where noise is a concern. The Silent Ink Black offers minimal audio feedback, allowing for a more subdued typing experience. It's important to remember that the sound produced by either switch can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard frame, keycaps, and other factors.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Orange delivers a distinct typing sensation that many enthusiasts appreciate, as it is reminiscent of the original MX Orange switches that had a significant following. The Gateron Silent Ink Black, in contrast, features a silky smoothness that enhances the overall experience, making it exceptionally easy to press and release keys with minimal resistance. This "pillow-like" bottom-out sensation combined with a smooth keystroke defines the typing experience with the Silent Ink Black switch. While both switches aim to provide an enjoyable feel, the MX Orange may cater to those who appreciate a more traditional tactile response.
In conclusion, while the Cherry MX Orange and Gateron Silent Ink Black switches have their unique qualities, they also cater to different preferences. The MX Orange leans towards a moderate sound with a more classic mechanical feel, while the Silent Ink Black prioritizes a quieter operation with a luxuriously smooth typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences regarding sound and feel, and both switches can yield enjoyable typing experiences, albeit in slightly different contexts.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Cherry MX Orange linear switches and Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switches ultimately depends on your specific needs and typing environment. If you prioritize a switch that revives the nostalgia of the original MX Orange and offers a lighter feel with an undisclosed bottom-out force, the MX Orange is an excellent choice. It typically provides a linear typing experience that many find satisfying, making it suitable for both gaming and general typing without overwhelming tactile feedback. However, if you often find yourself in quieter environments or require a switch that minimizes noise while still offering a smooth feel, the Gateron Silent Ink Black will serve you better. With a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 70 grams and a silky typing experience, this switch not only accommodates those who prefer a cushioned bottom-out feel but also significantly reduces the sound of keystrokes, ideal for office settings or shared workspaces. Ultimately, consider your typing habits, the noise level of your environment, and your personal preference for switch feel to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard experience.
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