Bsun Pine vs. Gateron Ink Black V2
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the Gateron Ink Black V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Pine and Gateron Ink Black V2 stand out as popular choices, each offering a unique typing experience. The BSUN Pine tactile switch is celebrated for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing clear-cut feedback and fast action for a no-nonsense typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is favored for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, offering a more polished and mild typing feel. While the Pine switch is described as 'Accented' and 'Invigorating', the Ink Black V2 is characterized as 'Low-pitched' and 'Bassy'. 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
2.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The Bsun Pine features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Gateron Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend top housing. While both materials produce a satisfying sound, the Pine's polycarbonate is known for its translucency, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the INK blend by Gateron offers a relatively high-pitched and clacky sound profile that many users find enjoyable. When it comes to the top housing, the Pine and the Ink Black V2 offer different sound experiences for users to enjoy.
In terms of bottom housing, the Bsun Pine utilizes nylon, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend bottom housing also contributes to a pointed and high-pitched sound profile, complementing the top housing's characteristics. Despite the difference in materials, both bottom housings offer unique sound qualities that enhance the overall typing experience for users. Whether you prefer a duller and rounder sound from nylon or a clacky sound from the INK blend, both options provide distinct typing experiences.
When considering the impact of housing materials on the overall sound and feel of a switch, it's important to recognize the role of both the top and bottom housings. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, the top housing has more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key. In the case of the Bsun Pine and the Gateron Ink Black V2, the differences in top and bottom housing materials contribute to the unique sound profiles and typing experiences offered by each switch. Despite their differences, both switches provide users with options to tailor their typing experience to their personal preferences.
Weight
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch which has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Pine requiring 65 grams and the Ink Black V2 requiring 70 grams. The Pine switch would be more suitable for individuals who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the Ink Black V2 would be ideal for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences regarding actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, the Pine has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Pine the shorter of the two options, providing a quicker response time for those who prefer a shorter travel distance. In contrast, the Ink Black V2 has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option. The 4 mm travel distance is more traditional and might appeal to those who prefer a deeper key press. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of travel distance, with the Pine being shorter and the Ink Black V2 being longer, catering to individual preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.
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, the BSUN Pine tactile switch is known for its sharp and distinct click, creating a satisfying auditory experience for typists. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch offers a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, providing a smooth and rich clack during key presses. These differences in sound characteristics give users a variety of options to choose from based on their preference for a clicky or more subdued typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the BSUN Pine switch is described as offering an invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, with a prominent and crisp bump that gives a satisfying feel with each keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Black V2 switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle and smooth key travel that is approachable to most users. Both switches offer a different tactile experience, with the Pine switch being more intense and snappy, while the Ink Black V2 switch focuses on providing a polished and refined feel.
Overall, the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Pine switch delivers a sharp and invigorating tactile experience with a distinct click, while the Ink Black V2 switch provides a smooth and rich clack with a polished feel. Depending on personal preference for sound intensity and tactile feedback, users can choose between these switches to customize their typing experience. While the sound and feel may differ between the two switches, users can expect a high-quality typing experience with either choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out action, the Pine switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth downstroke and rich clack with a slightly higher bottom out force, the Ink Black V2 switch could be more up your alley. Additionally, if you appreciate a switch with clear-cut feedback and a snappy feel, the Pine switch might be more appealing, whereas if you prefer a more gentle and approachable typing experience with reduced friction, the Ink Black V2 switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on which characteristics align more closely with your personal typing preferences and style.
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