Bsun Avocado vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the Bsun Avocado and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the BSUN Avocado and the Gateron Silent Ink Black. The BSUN Avocado switch is a tactile switch that offers a unique typing experience with a snappy and responsive bump followed by a smooth downstroke. Known for its pronounced tactility and mild sound signature, this switch is ideal for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience without excessive noise. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch is a linear switch that provides a quiet typing experience with a cushioned bottom-out feel and minimal audio feedback. Perfect for environments where noise may be a concern, this switch is characterized by its silky and polished typing feel. Each switch has its own distinct qualities that appeal to different preferences and needs. 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
45g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Avocado and the Gateron Silent Ink Black, we can see some distinct differences. The Avocado features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black utilizes a proprietary INK blend top housing, which is characterized by a pointed and high-pitched sound without being overly sharp. While both materials provide a satisfying sound, the Avocado's polycarbonate produces a more resonant and clear sound compared to the clacky sound of the INK blend.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Avocado uses a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. Conversely, the Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend bottom housing also offers a high-pitched sound profile without being overly sharp. Both materials absorb sound differently, with nylon creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the pointed sound of the INK blend. While the Avocado's nylon provides a more classic switch sound, the Silent Ink Black's blend offers a unique and satisfying clacky sound.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and feel of the switch. While the Avocado and the Silent Ink Black may have different top and bottom housing materials, they both offer distinct qualities that contribute to a satisfying typing experience. Whether it be the sharper and crisper sound of the polycarbonate in the Avocado or the clacky sound of the INK blend in the Silent Ink Black, enthusiasts can choose between different sound profiles based on their preferences. Ultimately, both switches deliver similar results in terms of providing a unique and enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force of the Bsun Avocado tactile switch is lighter at 45 grams compared to the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch at 60 grams. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Avocado is 65 grams, slightly lighter than the Silent Ink Black at 70 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of force required for typing. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Avocado for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the Silent Ink Black for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, we can see that the Avocado has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Silent Ink Black's 4 mm. The Avocado offers a quicker response time, making it ideal for gamers who need fast reactions. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black provides a slightly deeper key press, which some users may prefer for a more substantial feel. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Silent Ink Black being the longer of the two. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Avocado has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Avocado for $4.00.
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 Bsun Avocado tactile switch offers a mild, neutral sound that doesn't overshadow the tactile experience it provides. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch is specifically designed for quieter environments, offering a muted sound profile that minimizes noise during typing sessions. With the Avocado's focus on tactile feedback and the Silent Ink Black's emphasis on quiet operation, the sound experience of these switches caters to different preferences.
Moving on to feel, the Bsun Avocado switch is known for its sharp, snappy, and invigorating tactility, providing a pronounced tactile feedback without being overwhelming. It offers an accented typing experience that keeps you engaged with each keypress. In contrast, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch offers a silky and polished typing feel, enhancing smoothness and reducing resistance for a more refined experience. Both switches offer distinct tactile and linear feels respectively, catering to different preferences for typing style and feedback.
In conclusion, the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Avocado provides a satisfying tactile experience with mild sound, perfect for those who enjoy pronounced feedback without excessive noise. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black offers a quieter operation with a smooth and polished feel, ideal for environments where noise is a concern. Regardless of your choice, both switches provide distinct characteristics that can elevate your typing experience based on your personal preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the BSUN Avocado tactile switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you appreciate a pronounced tactile feedback with a snappy and invigorating feel, accompanied by a mild, neutral sound signature, then the Avocado switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quieter typing experience with a cushiony bottom-out feel and minimal audio feedback, the Silent Ink Black switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for tactile feedback and sound levels.
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