Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Gateron Lunar Probe
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Gateron Lunar Probe mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Ink Box Black is renowned for its smooth and creamy feel, with a unique sound signature reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe features Gateron's innovative dual rail mechanism for stable and consistent key presses, offering a smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation with a subtle sound profile. While the Ink Box Black is characterized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', 'Polished', the Lunar Probe does not fall into any specific category. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on personal preferences and typing style. 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
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Gateron Lunar Probe differ significantly in terms of sound profiles and aesthetics. The Ink Box Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, described as clacky. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In terms of bottom housing, the Ink Box Black also utilizes the INK blend, while the Lunar Probe utilizes a nylon bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of the Lunar Probe results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer material that absorbs more sound.
Despite their differences in housing materials, both the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Gateron Lunar Probe offer unique sound profiles and tactile feedback. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Black provides a satisfying clacky sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Lunar Probe delivers a crisp and sharp sound. Similarly, the INK blend and nylon bottom housings of the two switches each contribute to the overall sound profile and feel of typing on the switches. Both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and typing experience.
In conclusion, the choice between the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Gateron Lunar Probe ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience. While the Ink Box Black offers a unique clacky sound with its proprietary INK blend housing materials, the Lunar Probe provides a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing. The nylon bottom housing of the Lunar Probe also adds a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the INK blend of the Ink Box Black. Both switches offer a premium typing experience with their unique housing materials that cater to different preferences in sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a higher actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Ink Box Black is heavier at 70 grams, while the Lunar Probe bottoms out at 50 grams. This makes the Ink Box Black switch more suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, while the Lunar Probe switch is ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience and suitability of the switch for different preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing their travel distances, both switches offer the same tactile experience as the keys are pressed down. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and responsiveness when using either of these switches. Overall, the travel distance of 3.6 mm for both switches ensures a consistent typing experience for those who prefer linear switches with a shorter travel distance compared to other switch types.
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 Gateron Lunar Probe has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lunar Probe for $4.19.
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 offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the sound of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch is unknown. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black switch provides a silky and polished typing experience, with an exceptionally smooth feel and minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Unfortunately, the feel of the Gateron Lunar Probe switch is not specified. Both switches are likely to offer a smooth key travel experience, providing a pleasant typing sensation.
Overall, if sound and feel are factors that heavily influence your decision in choosing between the Gateron Ink Box Black and Gateron Lunar Probe switches, you can expect similar results in terms of smoothness and consistency. However, to make a more informed decision, consider trying out both switches in person or watching reviews from trusted sources to see which one aligns more with your preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switches, you should consider the weight preference for your keypresses. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, along with a smooth and creamy typing experience with a clacky and high-pitched sound, then the Ink Box Black switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and a stable and consistent keypress experience with a pre-lubed linear sensation, then the Lunar Probe switch would suit your preferences better. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference in terms of weight, feel, and sound profile.
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