Extremely informative video, grabbed these for my build and loved its subtle but signature Ink v2 sound without the crummy springs. Travel distance reduction was easy to get used to and is totally worth the buttery smoothness and thock.
I'm going to try out the Gateron Box Ink Black V2 switches because I want something stiffer for my thick custom keycaps, quiet for online meetings, and pre-lubed because I don't want to set up a lube station and spend the time doing it myself. Thanks for the video! UPDATE: how about 2 months after this comment I have been using my new Gateron Box Ink Black V2 switches for a while now and I love them! They are just thocky enough for me without being too loud. They're not completely silent and sometimes my mic picks them up during online calls, but it's still okay with me. And since I installed thicker (and heavier) keycaps, they still feel like red switches on stock caps with the weight of the actuation force so not too much downforce is required.
They're like an improved Ink V2! The housing alone was a huge improvement! I think for my next set, I won't even film them... just add a tiny bit of lube to the upper housing and it actually made the switch sound even deeper
@shirase I totally agree! I am however usually content with using switches that complement the board/keycaps, but this’ll be the first one that fully matches the whole setup. I also ordered the “alpaca” version of the Durock stabs stabilizers to round-out the matching build. Glad to hear you enjoy the process of coordinating all parts aesthetically, even those that aren’t visible, as it’s something I’m starting to appreciate more & more.
what a fantastic video as always. you always put so much work into your content and i really appreciate it. now i know you said its time to look past black ink v2s, but remember some people still wont look past vintage cherry blacks even though they arent that great anymore... lol
:) Yeah, you definitely have a point there. I'm not trying to discount the Ink V2s in any way... it's my opinion, but when I go back to back from the Ink V2s and Box Inks... something about the V2s just seem outdate... like how the switch feels and what not vs the new one... but not everyone will agree... but that's ok!
Great video! Lots of great information here. One important thing I want to add, is the reduced actuation point. You mention total travel being reduced 0.6mm, from 4.0mm vs 3.4mm (Regular Ink vs Box Ink) However, the actuation has reduced 0.8mm, from 2.0mm vs 1.2mm (Regular Ink vs Box Ink) To me, the reduced actuation was very noticeable and felt very weird during regular typing.
I don't particularly like long pole stems, it messes with my muscle memory and this release is no exception. I do credit Gateron with doing something different with the Ink line, but the amount of reduction here is significant. I'd be all for the pink's spring and housing for the normal Ink V2.
That space bar had the tiniest bit of rattle lol. Anyhow, I really really appreciated your breakdown on these AND the way you showed the sound test on the same key!
You're very welcome! I know... The portico doesn't get as much love and it's been just sitting in the box for some time. So the Stabs are probably in need of tuning :)
Thanks Ningo! I tried something a bit different for the thumbnails to have it stand out more. If this is effective, perhaps I can use this style going forward! The switches are great by the way!
as a total beginner i have to thank you for putting out good content where you actually compare parts against each other as best as you can in video format. Because especially when you are new and try to figure out something you like its not that usefull when other creators just showcase stuff and say „yeah its good, much thocky“ every time. this keyboard stuff costs so much that you cant really order and try out a buch of different things, even if you work full time and are well off.
Thanks for your video and comprehensive analysis. Watching the graph, I am happy I got the Ink Black V2s. I don't mind the slight wobble - I don't notice it when typing or gaming. In fact, I am actually glad there is a slight wobble as it accommodates my fast typing, or when I am not in perfect typing position. It sounds deep. Yes, it is on the higher price range, needs to be lubed, and wish it were cheaper. But for now I would not replace it with other switches, except maybe RAMA Ducks as I hear good things about it. I only use PBT MT3 keycaps, so clearance is never an issue for me. I am building a keeb for my girl, and I would consider Milky Yellows.
The latest black ink v2 batches are also updated. The top housing where the led sits also have the line in the middle. Also the housings are tighter than the old ones. Just got mine 2days ago
@@Keybored yes. Please do so. I was even shocked because i already owned previous ink v2's and immediately messaged the seller on why is there a line in the middle of the opening of the led
I was literally ranting on another video about Joe incredible box switches were and how hard it was to go back to regular switches..and then this video pops up. Box switches at least khail ones have zero wobble it's crazy
@ 3:57 the label says "box pinked lubed (also top housing slider)". Does that mean you lubed the top housing of the switch? Or did you lube the outside of the slider that creates that box shape enclosing the stem? (or did u lube both)? Also, extremely well made video!
:) Thank you! I'm planning to buy more of the pink ones and spring swap them out to a slightly heavier... I really like how the pink ones actually look
One day! I've never been a huge user of silents, but recently I made a board with some for travel... and it's oddly growing on me. The soft squishy bottom out I kind of like haha
You know, another viewer said the new V2s have been upgraded also with the similar housing... if so, they should also be great! If you look and they have that dividing line in the upper housing, it should be the new housing mold!
Sound and feel great except it hurt the wallet when upgraded. If you are really on the cheap side just stick with a stock switch that came with your keyboard. Most switches even the expensive require lube manually so lube your stock keyboard switch. Next, tape mod for wobble key, add pad, and tape the back of the keyboard PCB for a little more thocky sound. This should get you to about 80% performance /feel/sound of a super high-end custom keyboard for 1/5 to 1/10 the prices.
Indeed, I got the Aqua King V3, and though they are definitely better than my old Gateron Yellows, especially when stock, after lubing and filming, they are surprisingly similar. I can definitely say that the Aqua Kings are better, but the Gateron Yellow, when lubed and filmed, are about about 80-90% there.
All switches do turn out much nicer when lubed and filmed! Hence gat yellows are one of the best switches out there for the money! Especially the new pro yellows... these are fantastic!
I initially thought they would feel terrible because of the reduced travel. For example, I still don't enjoy the black cherry pies that much because they are so short travel. But honestly, I didn't find the box inks bad at all. Using it a few times, they felt normal very quick :)
Pro yellows will still remain king of the budget switch. I still don't have any of the AKKO switches to compare them to personally. But I plan on it in the near future.
Akko switches are smooth but I guess are too light for my liking so i’d still go for heavier gateron switches such as the milky top yellow and black and the inks
Yeah... it happens too often. However, I heard the newest batch of the V2s also have the bifurcated upper housing, so may end up being better due to the tighter tolerances also!
Please, do a review on Haimu Heartbeat Silent Linear Switch. It is silent, but it does not have rubber pads but an entirely new mechanism. I bought some and they are pretty smooth stock and quite silent. I know you are a ruckus guy, however, this is really a new development in switch design.
They're great switches, especially for that price! Very smooth as well. However, the sound is not the same as the ink series. It's actually much more clacky
Just finished my first build with these gat blacks. Tofu 60 with red samurais and a poly plate. I definitely should have spring swapped cause damn this thing is heavy. Especially since I came from cherry browns lol. And I also definitely over lubed. Beginner s mistake. Gonna have to pull em all out and de lube them ugh… it sounds amazing though !
Glad to hear that! The TOFU60 is still a great board! You should try doing the O-Ring mod on it. Check out my video on the wireless tofu 60, and I show some good mods on that board to make it sound amazing!
If it didn't involve lubing switches I'd buy new switches for my second board. But as it is.. I'm just keeping my main with the black V2 and secondary with the gat yellows. I fkn HATE lubing and I'm almost outta lube and buying new krytox is very hard where I live
with the switch comparison chart its hard for a beginner like me to remember which switch is which by image. my stupid ass needs a key legend or something
Currently looking to build a keyboard for gaming, rather than typing. Do you think black inks/box will be too heavy at 70g springs? WASDing alot might result in fatigue? Im used to silver switches at around 34g when gaming, but i figured i want something more premium now
you will definitely feel some fatigue at 70g if you’re only used to 34g! i recommend milky yellows or even the new yellow ink v2s if you want premium feel without too much weight (:
@@bistekbb thanks, yeah Ive realized that Ive read the MX speed silver chart wrong a long time ago. So appearently its a 45g actuation and a flipping 75g bottom out. So now Im going for something more balanced; probably Banana splits or some other jwk at around 58-63.5 bottom out and around 50-55 operating force. This will hopefully be much smoother and more consistent, ill just have to adjust for standard 4mm travel when gaming again lol
Excellent video! Would you mind telling me the title of the track that plays during the wobble test? Shazam and Soundhound were unable to identify it. Also really pleased to see these are good switches. Before I stumbled across your video I had ordered some Box Ink Blacks for my first ever keyboard build and now I'm even more excited to start, so thank you.
3 times more expensive hope they’re worth it. For me the gateron milky reds are good enough I don’t even notice wobble I have switch films but I never felt the need to use them. Strange.. Lets hope the price comes down a bit more
With my old Inks, I threw in some pom long poles (from carrots). The teal and black is so cool looking! I'm Gunna throw them on my Thera plateless build. Definitely breathed some new life in an old favorite. Can't wait :). Awesome job as always bro! Best part is showing off the weight capabilities of the desk haha.
Hey Keybored! How would this compare to the new updated black ink v2 (the short you posted haha) and would you still get this over the updated black ink v2?
The sound difference is tad bit there, but it's hard to explain. When I use a board full of the ink v2s, and move onto a board full of the box inks, they feel different. It feels like progress was made between the V2s and the box inks in a pretty good way... especially the housing tightness!
@@godofthecows1239 It helps the overall typing feel much more stable imo. Like for example, if you use caps like SA or MT3 profile, a wobbly switch makes those tall caps feel so loose. Also, for caps like the spacebar, the long nature of it makes the switch "rotate" as you press, so a tighter switch helps to prevent that as well!
Great video, just wanted to ask if you have some akko radiant reds around that you could have an interference test on. Pretty sure they can remove interference on cherry profile keycaps in north facing leds with their 3.5mm travel but I want to be sure since I really want to buy cherry profile keycaps and don't want to waste money just to have them have interference
I actually don't have the radiant reds, but I have the Akko starfish, which should be similar. They do not have interference with the cherry profile caps
Hmm...I dunno from what I saw right now, they're a bit more pricy. I think I'll stick w V2s for now, they're not that bad still. Great review, Ponker Bless.
I do have the Jelly switches with me right now. They're good budget switches for sure. I wouldn't actually put them on the same level as the box ink blacks. Back to back, they actually sound really really different!
Hot take: all mx switches of the same category sound extremely similar and feel the same after the obligatory lubing, filming and spring swapping. Only customs that stand out to me these days are alps and electro capacitive boards but they're so rare because everyone wants to make the same mx gasket case with the same switches over and over.
Hey I'm probably going to get ignored but I used one of your affliate links because I wanted to support you and buy these inks based on your thoughts. The store I ordered from (elb) is so hard to deal with. I tried to cancel my order right away because I made a mistake with the payment and forgot to add the coupon code. They unfortunately pass the cost of cancelling from Shopify back to the customer. Mind you the order hasn't shipped. I'm willing to support smaller shops but seriously? The order didn't even ship. Because you do support them in some form, I wanted to let you know my experience and for anyone else reading this in the future. I hope this doesn't get removed from moderation but if it does, I will absolutely make sure it is known on my own platform and others to stay away. I really like your content and think it does stand out, but I think choice of affinities could be better based on my experience with one of them.
@@Keybored hey unfortunately they were unwilling to give me a full refund like many other companies that use Shopify do. I am definitely not the first person to make a mistake on adding coupons. They are simply terrible at customer service. Personally, I'm not really interested in speaking with this jack person because more than likely this policy decision comes from them. Seeing that you support them as well, I really can't continue supporting you from this incident.
@@OJAYSAN so you are going to stop supporting a keyboard content creator because one of your items wasn’t successfully shipped properly yeah super cool
Hello Scott! I’ve been using them stock for a while now and have been debating ordering films, is it super worth it or can I get away with a better sound by just lubing them? thanks!
In my experience 4mm and 3.4mm travel distance does a significant difference in feels, i had prefer long pole bcus its more satisfying than short distance travel
I agree with you. I really don't enjoy the short travel switches that much, and I went into this review thinking it'll be weird. But honestly, not sure what it is, but I didn't think it felt off at all. I wonder if it really is exactly 3.4mm even, given that it didn't feel very short to me... like black cherry pies
Yup! I show the demonstration of this in the end! You can use north facing with cherry profile. If you're asking if putting an actual LED into the hole, not so sure about that since I haven't had any boards that require a full LED that way
I lubed them the same way as other linears! :) But I think for my next batch, I'll skip the film and lightly lube the upper housing slider :) Made the switch sound deeper
I wasn't planning to, but perhaps if I do end up doing a Gateron CJ review, I can throw that in as a part! I can tell you tho... the pro switches are fantastic! And they will be featured in a next build with the TM680
I made a really good black pink switch before i used some all black boba u4t and some stems from akko rose reds. Super cool thocky pop switch with zero stem wobble snd cool look. But pointless not with u4 lt being made.
Two questions, do you think the black/pink tinted switch would interfere with rgb, and do these work with standard cherry mx profile caps to do you need specific key caps?
I haven't had a chance to check out Epsilons, but I assume they will be closer to the Mint switch I tested earlier. The Mint is actually very deep and subdued, slightly more than even the inks. However, compared to the lavenders, the inks are deeper
HelpfulI review to me, thanks. I got the pink box inks today to build a purple kbd67 lite v3 in ISO 😱🙃 / pc plate / tape mod. Can‘t wait to hear the sound. The plan is to use the kbd67 / box pink combo as a pretty fast gaming board. I guess I‘ll let them break in for some time and after that lube them slightly with 205g0 and film with thin durock film. Any other suggestions or experiences are welcome. 🙏 keep going everyone.
@@Keybored:-) It worked out great - even without foil or pads on the PCB the sound is beyond my imagination. This is while the switches are stock and still using the KBD stabs instead of Durock. I did a holee mod, Krytox XTH-BDZ for the wire and some 205g0 shine for the housing. I guess there is still some potential for (future) tuning and experimentation. At least a gaming board I can highly recommend this combination. Fast, deep sounding to my ears. If someone definitely doesn’t want to lube switches the pink box inks a worth a consideration, thats not the case for black inks v2. For this price point the combination is a premium experience. At least if the ABS case is not a problem. I got the purple case combined with a combination of white and pink PBT shine through Caps (Cherry profile). Love it as my new gaming board. Keep up the good work. ✌️ from Europe.
Honestly, I'm typing on it right now and I don't notice it being a low travel. I have used switches with extremely low travel and I really dislike that, but this one it's not bad at all!
@@Keybored thanks for the quick reply! My next build is hopefully kbd67lite r3, and i have been pondering between lavender and black ink. Now i gotta add this one into the consideration as well lol
Looks like there was a vendor wide price increase on these since I have released the video! The Box Ink switches went up in price to $.85 a switch :(
Influence go brrrr
F
in Sweden they are 10 crowns a switch or about $1.06 goddamn
Wtf
well, you can just buy akko jelly blacks, they are almost the same for significantly lower price, and smoother stock feeling 👍
I literally just finished my ink V2 build..
:) Ink V2s are still fine switches
Damn dude feels bad…
Same, as long as you lube them properly, they sound really good, not worth upgrading to box inks
of course this comes out a month after i make my first keyboard build with black inks
Literally same
The joys of the mechanical keyboarding hobby! I think this is how they make us keep making more and more keyboards haha
i feel your pain, I really do
Boba U4L launching in a few weeks. More regrets.
Same
Extremely informative video, grabbed these for my build and loved its subtle but signature Ink v2 sound without the crummy springs. Travel distance reduction was easy to get used to and is totally worth the buttery smoothness and thock.
I'm going to try out the Gateron Box Ink Black V2 switches because I want something stiffer for my thick custom keycaps, quiet for online meetings, and pre-lubed because I don't want to set up a lube station and spend the time doing it myself. Thanks for the video!
UPDATE: how about 2 months after this comment I have been using my new Gateron Box Ink Black V2 switches for a while now and I love them! They are just thocky enough for me without being too loud. They're not completely silent and sometimes my mic picks them up during online calls, but it's still okay with me. And since I installed thicker (and heavier) keycaps, they still feel like red switches on stock caps with the weight of the actuation force so not too much downforce is required.
Great comparison! As a newcomer to the hobby, videos such as this are very helpful when going down the rabbit hole.
:) Welcome to the hobby! Don't go too deep into the rabbit hole! The exit is very hard to find
Immediately ordered some of these to try them out, they look real good. Might be my new go-to switch if it's as good as you say.
They're like an improved Ink V2! The housing alone was a huge improvement! I think for my next set, I won't even film them... just add a tiny bit of lube to the upper housing and it actually made the switch sound even deeper
Same, plus I like the pink colorway. First time I’ll try matching the switches to keycaps (GMK pink on black)
@shirase I totally agree! I am however usually content with using switches that complement the board/keycaps, but this’ll be the first one that fully matches the whole setup. I also ordered the “alpaca” version of the Durock stabs stabilizers to round-out the matching build.
Glad to hear you enjoy the process of coordinating all parts aesthetically, even those that aren’t visible, as it’s something I’m starting to appreciate more & more.
Where the hell did you order them from?
@@NZ_Lexus_IS-F it’s in the description. The website is called Elboard.
Great video, I really like the key mashing/cutting between switches. Best way to compare the sound I’ve seen so far
:) Thank you so much! I hope these reviews and charts are helpful!
Found this the day I ordered the Black Inks V2. GOD DANGIT. but the V2s are so much smoother than milky yellows.
And more expensive, but that's irrelevant
f
Yup! The inks are definitely the more premium switch!
what a fantastic video as always. you always put so much work into your content and i really appreciate it.
now i know you said its time to look past black ink v2s, but remember some people still wont look past vintage cherry blacks even though they arent that great anymore... lol
:) Yeah, you definitely have a point there. I'm not trying to discount the Ink V2s in any way... it's my opinion, but when I go back to back from the Ink V2s and Box Inks... something about the V2s just seem outdate... like how the switch feels and what not vs the new one... but not everyone will agree... but that's ok!
Some people still can’t get over Ink V1s xd
@@chunkymilk1288 but i have heard that ink v1s are actually better except for the fact that they have a loose leaf
Yes! So glad others are reviewing these switches. They’re so good!
:) They are right?
Amazing video Keybored! Every video is entertaining and so high qualty
Thank you so much DEST! I really appreciate the support!
I thought for a sec, technoblade watches keyboard stuff
That sound comparison editing was awesome thank you for doing that!
No problem!
60g is the sweet spot for me, I spring swapped my Tealios to 60g and they’re 👌🏽
I used to really like heavier springs, but I found my perfect weight is either 60g or 62g long springs!
@@Keybored Are you talking about the bottom out or the operating weight?
Yes finally a review on these switches. Been deciding to buy these switches. Thanks for the review
You're welcome! Hope it was helpful!
Great video! Lots of great information here.
One important thing I want to add, is the reduced actuation point.
You mention total travel being reduced 0.6mm, from 4.0mm vs 3.4mm (Regular Ink vs Box Ink)
However, the actuation has reduced 0.8mm, from 2.0mm vs 1.2mm (Regular Ink vs Box Ink)
To me, the reduced actuation was very noticeable and felt very weird during regular typing.
Great point!
I don't particularly like long pole stems, it messes with my muscle memory and this release is no exception.
I do credit Gateron with doing something different with the Ink line, but the amount of reduction here is significant. I'd be all for the pink's spring and housing for the normal Ink V2.
I have ink V2's on my first build. I'll definitely get these at some point for my Mode Eighty. Great Video!
:) Thank you! They are great switches!
Black Ink Update! Nice, one of my favorites
Definitely one of the best switches!
poggers
Great seeing you here Hamaji! Hope the uni life is treating you well!
poggers indeed
poggers indeed indeed
poggers indeed indeed indeed
poggers indeed indeed indeed indeed
That green on the Portico is truly mesmerizing
It is like sooo green. Like if you turned Yoshi from Mario into a keyboard green lol
Very informative as always. Thanks for the comparison chart!
You're definitely welcome!
Glad to see my guy growing!
Thank you Grapechowder! Good to see you around! It seems like forever since my first videos lol
That space bar had the tiniest bit of rattle lol. Anyhow, I really really appreciated your breakdown on these AND the way you showed the sound test on the same key!
You're very welcome! I know... The portico doesn't get as much love and it's been just sitting in the box for some time. So the Stabs are probably in need of tuning :)
Keybored never leaves us bored
for real, I never thought someone could make a switch review this interesting lol
:) Thank you so much! I really appreciate it!
For real
true
Truth fullstop
I might pick some up! Great to see some switches getting refreshed.
It really is good seeing new switches coming out to make improvements
Thumbnail looks really nice and these Switch comparisons are so nice
Thanks Ningo! I tried something a bit different for the thumbnails to have it stand out more. If this is effective, perhaps I can use this style going forward! The switches are great by the way!
@@Keybored I got not plans for my board after I oring sandwich mounted so I think I will go on and get a new board
@@dico8199 buy a pc bruh
@@user-jb7vi5rw7e oh what the
@@user-jb7vi5rw7e Im just gonna ask my parents after uhh I get the grades thing cus I always get good grades sjdsksksko
Thanks for introducing me to the cap v2....sounds amazing
Great stuff as usual buddy!
Thank you CLACKBAIT!
as a total beginner i have to thank you for putting out good content where you actually compare parts against each other as best as you can in video format. Because especially when you are new and try to figure out something you like its not that usefull when other creators just showcase stuff and say „yeah its good, much thocky“ every time.
this keyboard stuff costs so much that you cant really order and try out a buch of different things, even if you work full time and are well off.
Thanks for the great informative video, will definitely be ordering some to try them out!
:) Hope you like them! I really do!
Thanks for your video and comprehensive analysis. Watching the graph, I am happy I got the Ink Black V2s. I don't mind the slight wobble - I don't notice it when typing or gaming. In fact, I am actually glad there is a slight wobble as it accommodates my fast typing, or when I am not in perfect typing position. It sounds deep. Yes, it is on the higher price range, needs to be lubed, and wish it were cheaper. But for now I would not replace it with other switches, except maybe RAMA Ducks as I hear good things about it. I only use PBT MT3 keycaps, so clearance is never an issue for me. I am building a keeb for my girl, and I would consider Milky Yellows.
The latest black ink v2 batches are also updated. The top housing where the led sits also have the line in the middle. Also the housings are tighter than the old ones. Just got mine 2days ago
That's great to know! I'll have to order a set to check them out
@@Keybored yes. Please do so. I was even shocked because i already owned previous ink v2's and immediately messaged the seller on why is there a line in the middle of the opening of the led
@@fredflint9153 where did u get them?
@@hynubb3r local reseller here in the philippines
Bottom of the v2 stem got changed too. More flat rounded instead.
Time for me to order some, thank you Scott!!
You're so welcome!
I was literally ranting on another video about Joe incredible box switches were and how hard it was to go back to regular switches..and then this video pops up. Box switches at least khail ones have zero wobble it's crazy
@ 3:57 the label says "box pinked lubed (also top housing slider)". Does that mean you lubed the top housing of the switch? Or did you lube the outside of the slider that creates that box shape enclosing the stem? (or did u lube both)?
Also, extremely well made video!
Hi Hion! I lubed the little slider area on the upper housing where the stem would go into. It really helped to make the overall sound deeper!
"Pink Blacks"... So Watermelon? Great looking board and switch review!
:) Thank you! I'm planning to buy more of the pink ones and spring swap them out to a slightly heavier... I really like how the pink ones actually look
So what I'm seeing and hearing is that the Cap V2 Yellows are the best bang for your buck
They sure are great bang for the buck!
5:47 mrw the board I waited to get for a year and set an alarm for is sold out in 3 seconds
:( some stuff really do go so quick! Like the jelly epoch lol
Nice review. Btw if can please review the gateron crystal switch. I heard they are very good close to black inks too. Thanks
I heard some good things about them. Will look into them in the future! I have some Gateron CJs on order also!
Blackpink! ☺️ another great video. Thanks Keybored!
:) Thank you! Blackpink!
I just got the gateron mochi switches, which are a recolor of the ks-3 switches. They sound so nice lubed and filmed. I love their sound profile.
Gateron has really been stepping up their game!
Here's hoping Gateron brings out silenced versions of these switches.
One day! I've never been a huge user of silents, but recently I made a board with some for travel... and it's oddly growing on me. The soft squishy bottom out I kind of like haha
The little Hachiroku model
:) Yup, it completed the desk!
i just got my black ink v2s 2 weeks ago for my first custom board and now this make me sadge ):
SAMEEE
What a coincidence, same here lmao
@@cultured2535 right
Im just waiting for my keychron q1 :):(
You know, another viewer said the new V2s have been upgraded also with the similar housing... if so, they should also be great! If you look and they have that dividing line in the upper housing, it should be the new housing mold!
Gateron Pro Yellow is such a good value.
An amazing value actually
great content! cant wait to order these from taobao for that sweet sweet price reduction
:) Hope they satisfy!
Gateron naming conventions:
Linear: Ink [ color ]
Short Linear: Box Ink [ color ]
Tactile: KANGAROOOOO
Haha... don't forget the new China Joys
Sound and feel great except it hurt the wallet when upgraded. If you are really on the cheap side just stick with a stock switch that came with your keyboard. Most switches even the expensive require lube manually so lube your stock keyboard switch. Next, tape mod for wobble key, add pad, and tape the back of the keyboard PCB for a little more thocky sound. This should get you to about 80% performance /feel/sound of a super high-end custom keyboard for 1/5 to 1/10 the prices.
Indeed, I got the Aqua King V3, and though they are definitely better than my old Gateron Yellows, especially when stock, after lubing and filming, they are surprisingly similar. I can definitely say that the Aqua Kings are better, but the Gateron Yellow, when lubed and filmed, are about about 80-90% there.
All switches do turn out much nicer when lubed and filmed! Hence gat yellows are one of the best switches out there for the money! Especially the new pro yellows... these are fantastic!
If i had money I would defiantly buy these
Yeah, these are definitely more costly
Wish these had the full 4.0mm travel
I initially thought they would feel terrible because of the reduced travel. For example, I still don't enjoy the black cherry pies that much because they are so short travel. But honestly, I didn't find the box inks bad at all. Using it a few times, they felt normal very quick :)
Pro yellows will still remain king of the budget switch. I still don't have any of the AKKO switches to compare them to personally. But I plan on it in the near future.
Akko switches are smooth but I guess are too light for my liking so i’d still go for heavier gateron switches such as the milky top yellow and black and the inks
Pro yellows are fantastic! I am featuring them on the newest video this week!
just got some box ink pinks, i love them, lubed and filmed are thocc
They're great switches! I really like the look of them too!
@@Keybored yeah they look great and even better if u give them a kbd67 lite
Just as i bought normal black inks, mechanical keyboard hobby timing
Yeah... it happens too often. However, I heard the newest batch of the V2s also have the bifurcated upper housing, so may end up being better due to the tighter tolerances also!
Please, do a review on Haimu Heartbeat Silent Linear Switch. It is silent, but it does not have rubber pads but an entirely new mechanism. I bought some and they are pretty smooth stock and quite silent. I know you are a ruckus guy, however, this is really a new development in switch design.
I would love to see what you think of the Akko Jelly switches, which seem to be an affordable and convenient offering!
They're great switches, especially for that price! Very smooth as well. However, the sound is not the same as the ink series. It's actually much more clacky
@@Keybored interesting, so you would prefer Gateron Ink?
oh no, cap v2, coffe chip with long springs and now I must buy these, I basically order all switches you review :)
:) Thank you! Hope the content is helpful!
@@Keybored you bet! thank you, I'm sure you spending hours and days on these extremely informative videos. really appreciate this!
Annnnnd I'm just now finding this video as my Black ink v2"s shipped out yesterday
:) The joys of this hobby!
Just finished my first build with these gat blacks. Tofu 60 with red samurais and a poly plate. I definitely should have spring swapped cause damn this thing is heavy. Especially since I came from cherry browns lol. And I also definitely over lubed. Beginner s mistake. Gonna have to pull em all out and de lube them ugh… it sounds amazing though !
Glad to hear that! The TOFU60 is still a great board! You should try doing the O-Ring mod on it. Check out my video on the wireless tofu 60, and I show some good mods on that board to make it sound amazing!
@@Keybored can you please make a video about how to make the Akko mod 008 the thocciest it can be? Thanks :D
If it didn't involve lubing switches I'd buy new switches for my second board. But as it is.. I'm just keeping my main with the black V2 and secondary with the gat yellows. I fkn HATE lubing and I'm almost outta lube and buying new krytox is very hard where I live
"But honestly, half a millimeter isn't something that I notice terribly..."
I do...
"...when I'm typing."
Oh yes, me neither.
Lol everyone is different!
with the switch comparison chart its hard for a beginner like me to remember which switch is which by image. my stupid ass needs a key legend or something
Currently looking to build a keyboard for gaming, rather than typing. Do you think black inks/box will be too heavy at 70g springs? WASDing alot might result in fatigue?
Im used to silver switches at around 34g when gaming, but i figured i want something more premium now
you will definitely feel some fatigue at 70g if you’re only used to 34g!
i recommend milky yellows or even the new yellow ink v2s if you want premium feel without too much weight (:
@@bistekbb thanks, yeah Ive realized that Ive read the MX speed silver chart wrong a long time ago. So appearently its a 45g actuation and a flipping 75g bottom out.
So now Im going for something more balanced; probably Banana splits or some other jwk at around 58-63.5 bottom out and around 50-55 operating force. This will hopefully be much smoother and more consistent, ill just have to adjust for standard 4mm travel when gaming again lol
I would spring swap them! I use TX 60g or 62g long springs and they make most switches feel much better!
@@Keybored thx ill probably make a spring swap if i go with box inks.. how do tx springs compare to durocks gold plated ones?
Excellent video! Would you mind telling me the title of the track that plays during the wobble test? Shazam and Soundhound were unable to identify it. Also really pleased to see these are good switches. Before I stumbled across your video I had ordered some Box Ink Blacks for my first ever keyboard build and now I'm even more excited to start, so thank you.
honestly liked on the video just because of the ad :)
:) I did get a chance to lay on the table and have it push me up. It was pretty entertaining lol
3 times more expensive hope they’re worth it. For me the gateron milky reds are good enough I don’t even notice wobble I have switch films but I never felt the need to use them. Strange.. Lets hope the price comes down a bit more
Hope components become more accessible!
I LOVE YOUR VIDEOS
Thank you big man Shaq!
@@Keybored Thank you, I know your name is keybored but you make me happy so I’m not bored
Thanks for amazing content
You're absolutely welcome! Thank you for the support!
With my old Inks, I threw in some pom long poles (from carrots). The teal and black is so cool looking! I'm Gunna throw them on my Thera plateless build. Definitely breathed some new life in an old favorite. Can't wait :). Awesome job as always bro! Best part is showing off the weight capabilities of the desk haha.
Thank you so much! That does seem like a interesting color combination! I wonder how they feel!
great vid!!!!
Thank you!
Hey Keybored! How would this compare to the new updated black ink v2 (the short you posted haha) and would you still get this over the updated black ink v2?
I think i would buy this switch over the ink v2s, but I would prefer the deeper sound...
The sound difference is tad bit there, but it's hard to explain. When I use a board full of the ink v2s, and move onto a board full of the box inks, they feel different. It feels like progress was made between the V2s and the box inks in a pretty good way... especially the housing tightness!
@@Keybored What does tightness do to the board?
@@godofthecows1239 It helps the overall typing feel much more stable imo. Like for example, if you use caps like SA or MT3 profile, a wobbly switch makes those tall caps feel so loose. Also, for caps like the spacebar, the long nature of it makes the switch "rotate" as you press, so a tighter switch helps to prevent that as well!
@@Keybored Does the box inks have the same problems as the ink v2 where there are certain switches that have that "inconsistent scratchiness"???
Oooh you vile evil man. I love you. Just got myself both of them. Aggggh I had not intended on spending money tonight.
:) Sorry! I know, there is always something new that comes out and I keep dumping money into it also!
have you tried comparing it with the akko jelly black? They look pretty similar..
They look very similar, but the Box Ink Blacks are much deeper :)
ink black v2 still good, these are good as well. try both people!!
Great video, just wanted to ask if you have some akko radiant reds around that you could have an interference test on. Pretty sure they can remove interference on cherry profile keycaps in north facing leds with their 3.5mm travel but I want to be sure since I really want to buy cherry profile keycaps and don't want to waste money just to have them have interference
Let me know if you get an answer please
I actually don't have the radiant reds, but I have the Akko starfish, which should be similar. They do not have interference with the cherry profile caps
@@Keybored thank you
comparison chart is awesome!
Thank you! More to come on switch reviews!
I would like to see the black Akko Cs jelly switch vs this switch
They look similar, but I feel that the box inks are smoother and deeper in sound!
Ooof was right about to buy them too. Lucky me.
:) They're great switches! You'll like them!
The moment I splrudge and order a Tofu60 with Black Ink V2s you post this video ...
every time lol
:) The joys of this hobby! But the ink v2s are still great switches so no problems there!
Hmm...I dunno from what I saw right now, they're a bit more pricy. I think I'll stick w V2s for now, they're not that bad still. Great review, Ponker Bless.
Interesting! The sites I use, I see them at the same price as the original V2s! But hey, the V2s are still great so all good!
@@Keybored which websites are you using? I can only find the black box inks for 0.85$/pc compared to 0.70-0.75$/pc for the black ink v2
what keycaps can I use with this? Cherry style, or what?
You can use any mx stem style
Akko had a "clone" version it's their jelly series, would you mind reviewing them?
I do have the Jelly switches with me right now. They're good budget switches for sure. I wouldn't actually put them on the same level as the box ink blacks. Back to back, they actually sound really really different!
Hot take: all mx switches of the same category sound extremely similar and feel the same after the obligatory lubing, filming and spring swapping. Only customs that stand out to me these days are alps and electro capacitive boards but they're so rare because everyone wants to make the same mx gasket case with the same switches over and over.
It would also be more prevalent if more manufacturers offered more options :)
Hey I'm probably going to get ignored but I used one of your affliate links because I wanted to support you and buy these inks based on your thoughts. The store I ordered from (elb) is so hard to deal with. I tried to cancel my order right away because I made a mistake with the payment and forgot to add the coupon code. They unfortunately pass the cost of cancelling from Shopify back to the customer. Mind you the order hasn't shipped. I'm willing to support smaller shops but seriously? The order didn't even ship.
Because you do support them in some form, I wanted to let you know my experience and for anyone else reading this in the future. I hope this doesn't get removed from moderation but if it does, I will absolutely make sure it is known on my own platform and others to stay away. I really like your content and think it does stand out, but I think choice of affinities could be better based on my experience with one of them.
That's unfortunately to hear! Have you tried to reach out to Jack directly? He's always been super helpful!
@@Keybored I haven't. Went directly through their support via email.
@@Keybored hey unfortunately they were unwilling to give me a full refund like many other companies that use Shopify do. I am definitely not the first person to make a mistake on adding coupons. They are simply terrible at customer service. Personally, I'm not really interested in speaking with this jack person because more than likely this policy decision comes from them. Seeing that you support them as well, I really can't continue supporting you from this incident.
@@OJAYSAN so you are going to stop supporting a keyboard content creator because one of your items wasn’t successfully shipped properly yeah super cool
Oh and it was about A COUPON CODE
Hello Scott! I’ve been using them stock for a while now and have been debating ordering films, is it super worth it or can I get away with a better sound by just lubing them? thanks!
In my experience 4mm and 3.4mm travel distance does a significant difference in feels, i had prefer long pole bcus its more satisfying than short distance travel
I agree with you. I really don't enjoy the short travel switches that much, and I went into this review thinking it'll be weird. But honestly, not sure what it is, but I didn't think it felt off at all. I wonder if it really is exactly 3.4mm even, given that it didn't feel very short to me... like black cherry pies
My main question is with the slightly longer stem pole will they prevent interference with north facing leds and cherry profile caps.
Yup! I show the demonstration of this in the end! You can use north facing with cherry profile. If you're asking if putting an actual LED into the hole, not so sure about that since I haven't had any boards that require a full LED that way
I've had a bit of a problem with the long poles/sliders on these making my keycaps seesaw on my stabs any advice?
Yup! I have a video out on helpful hints and tips! Check it out! It shows you what to do with long pole switches and stabilizer keycaps!
Can you do a tutorial on how to properly lube these?
I lubed them the same way as other linears! :) But I think for my next batch, I'll skip the film and lightly lube the upper housing slider :) Made the switch sound deeper
I see you picked up some of the gateron pros, will you be doing a full review on them?
I wasn't planning to, but perhaps if I do end up doing a Gateron CJ review, I can throw that in as a part! I can tell you tho... the pro switches are fantastic! And they will be featured in a next build with the TM680
I was planning to get the ink blacks but hey it looks like im getting this now
:) These are great switches! Love your avatar pic... Komi?
@@Keybored yeah I started watching komi about 4 days now and I'm about to watch the 4th episode
I made a really good black pink switch before i used some all black boba u4t and some stems from akko rose reds. Super cool thocky pop switch with zero stem wobble snd cool look. But pointless not with u4 lt being made.
Two questions, do you think the black/pink tinted switch would interfere with rgb, and do these work with standard cherry mx profile caps to do you need specific key caps?
They do have the cut-outs so it should help somewhat, but as experienced with other tinted switches, the color does add a tint usually!
Fantastic review! How would you compare the Box Ink Blacks to Lavenders and Epsilons? I'm looking for the deepest sounding and smoothest switch
I haven't had a chance to check out Epsilons, but I assume they will be closer to the Mint switch I tested earlier. The Mint is actually very deep and subdued, slightly more than even the inks. However, compared to the lavenders, the inks are deeper
@@Keybored Very interesting. I'm not sure why nobody is talking about the Mint switches!
That North facing interference thing is bliss for poor people but the price... I'll stay with akko cs
Yeah Inks always have been the "premium" with a premium price haha. CS works perfectly fine also!
@@Keybored the fact that the Cs switches has no North facing interference is crazy for its low price. Totally deserve the recognition.
Try the new Akko CS Jelly Black...heard they are quite good plus doesn't break the wallet
@@haruanharuan6546I didnt know there a akko cs black. ill check it out rn thanks for it
Hi! Just want to ask which is more thockier, the box ink v2 or the oil king? thanks!
How's the Black BOX INK compared to Oil King? Which one you prefer?
Edit : Have you also tried the new G Pro 2.0?
HelpfulI review to me, thanks. I got the pink box inks today to build a purple kbd67 lite v3 in ISO 😱🙃 / pc plate / tape mod. Can‘t wait to hear the sound. The plan is to use the kbd67 / box pink combo as a pretty fast gaming board. I guess I‘ll let them break in for some time and after that lube them slightly with 205g0 and film with thin durock film. Any other suggestions or experiences are welcome. 🙏 keep going everyone.
Great combination! I love the pink box switches... they look so nice and different from all the other ink black builds :)
@@Keybored:-) It worked out great - even without foil or pads on the PCB the sound is beyond my imagination. This is while the switches are stock and still using the KBD stabs instead of Durock. I did a holee mod, Krytox XTH-BDZ for the wire and some 205g0 shine for the housing. I guess there is still some potential for (future) tuning and experimentation. At least a gaming board I can highly recommend this combination. Fast, deep sounding to my ears. If someone definitely doesn’t want to lube switches the pink box inks a worth a consideration, thats not the case for black inks v2. For this price point the combination is a premium experience. At least if the ABS case is not a problem. I got the purple case combined with a combination of white and pink PBT shine through Caps (Cherry profile). Love it as my new gaming board. Keep up the good work. ✌️ from Europe.
Do you really not notice the travel distance difference between this and the original ink black?
Honestly, I'm typing on it right now and I don't notice it being a low travel. I have used switches with extremely low travel and I really dislike that, but this one it's not bad at all!
@@Keybored thanks for the quick reply! My next build is hopefully kbd67lite r3, and i have been pondering between lavender and black ink. Now i gotta add this one into the consideration as well lol
Can I frankenswitch the stem and housing of Black Inks and Ink Box ?
I believe you can! I fit them to see if they would and it worked. Didn't get to type on them tho