TTC Bluish White vs. Gateron Ink Black V2
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the Gateron Ink Black V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch that caters to your specific typing preferences, look no further than the TTC Bluish White and the Gateron Ink Black V2. For those seeking a tactile experience, the Bluish White switch delivers a satisfyingly poppy typing experience with a snappy sound profile. Its categorized qualities include being 'buttery', 'mild', 'stepped', 'subtle', 'polished', and 'low-pitched'. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 is a linear switch that has stood the test of time and is loved by the community. It boasts a smooth downstroke and a rich clack, making it a classic favorite. Characterized as 'low-pitched', 'bassy', 'chirpy', 'mild', and 'polished', this switch offers a different typing experience. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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 TTC Bluish White and the Gateron Ink Black V2 switches, it is clear that they have different compositions. The Bluish White features a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is perfect for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it enhances the overall aesthetic. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 boasts a proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. While it is not overly sharp, it is described as clacky and satisfyingly thin.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Bluish White utilizes a nylon material, known for eliciting a deep and full sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Ink Black V2 features a proprietary INK blend bottom housing, which also contributes to its pointed and high-pitched sound profile. Like the top housing, the bottom housing adds to the clacky nature of the switch.
Although the two switches have different housing materials for their top and bottom, the impact of each housing material varies depending on how the switch is used. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing are more prominent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing has a greater effect on the sound when a key is released. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel from both switches, albeit with subtle differences due to their distinct housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The TTC Bluish White tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, meaning it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial push feel during typing. Similarly, when it comes to bottom out force, the Bluish White requires 50 grams of force to press all the way down, while the Ink Black V2 requires a heavier force of 70 grams.
Choosing between these switches depends on individual preferences. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the TTC Bluish White switch would be a suitable choice as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it ideal for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a more pronounced and substantial typing experience, the Gateron Ink Black V2 switch with its heavier actuation and bottom out force would be more suitable.
While these switches differ in their force requirements, it's worth mentioning that both options provide reliable tactile feedback for a satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the TTC Bluish White tactile switch is 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Comparing the two, it is clear that the Ink Black V2 has a slightly longer travel distance than the Bluish White. A 4.0 mm travel distance is considered to be the most traditional, while 3.0 mm is the most shallow. However, in recent times, shorter travel distances have become prevalent, especially among gamers who prefer faster response times. Therefore, if you prioritize a more responsive typing experience, the TTC Bluish White switch with its shorter travel distance may be the better choice. On the other hand, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to be too abrupt and prefer a switch with a more substantial depth. In such cases, the Gateron Ink Black V2 switch with its slightly longer travel distance would be the preferable option. Overall, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.63.
The Gateron Ink Black V2 has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Black V2 for $7.24.
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
In terms of sound, both the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch have a low-pitched sound profile. Low-pitched switches are known for their bass-heavy and mellow tones during key presses. The Ink Black V2, however, has an additional characteristic described as "bassy," which means it offers a deeper and richer sound profile resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, the Ink Black V2 has a unique acoustic signature described as "chirpy," giving it a slight squeak during typing. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch is known for its various qualities. It has been described as "buttery," indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. This switch provides a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. The Bluish White switch is also considered "mild," offering a gentle typing experience that stands in a safe middle-ground zone. It has a subtle resistance that maintains a light typing feel and is suitable for shared spaces due to its non-resonant sound signature. Additionally, the Bluish White switch is categorized as a "stepped" switch, meaning it feels like it has two stages - some pre-travel and/or post-travel - giving it a milder tactile experience. Lastly, the switch is described as "polished," indicating a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction and provides smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch shares similarities in terms of feel with the TTC Bluish White switch. It is also considered a "mild" switch, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Like the Bluish White switch, the Ink Black V2 switch is described as "polished," meaning it has a smooth and refined finish resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, both the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the sound profiles of both switches are low-pitched, the Ink Black V2 also has a bassy quality and a chirpy acoustic signature. In terms of feel, both switches are considered mild and polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. The TTC Bluish White switch has additional qualities such as being buttery, subtle, and stepped, while the Ink Black V2 switch shares the polished characteristic. These switches can provide similar results, but the TTC Bluish White switch may offer a slightly different tactile experience due to its stepped characteristic. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for a tactile or linear switch and the specific qualities they value in their typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you desire a satisfyingly poppy typing experience with a light bottom out force, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a snappy sound profile, a low-pitched sound, and a variety of feel descriptors such as buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished. They provide a seamless and effortless typing sensation, making them suitable for shared spaces.
On the other hand, if you prefer a classic linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron Ink Black V2 would be more suitable for you. This switch offers a smooth downstroke and a rich clack sound. In terms of sound, the Ink Black V2 has a low-pitched and bassy sound profile with a unique chirpy characteristic. When it comes to feel, it is described as mild and polished, providing a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Bluish White and Gateron Ink Black V2 switches depends on your specific preferences and typing style. Hopefully, this comparison has given you a clear understanding of the key qualities and characteristics of each switch, helping you make an informed decision.
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