Outemu Crystal vs. Gateron Ink Black V2

Overview

When it comes to comparing and contrasting mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come to mind are the Outemu Crystal and the Gateron Ink Black V2, both of which are linear switches. The Crystal switch is best known for its unique, elastic type feel and medium-light weight, resulting in a distinct linear typing experience. One can also expect a neutral sound profile when typing on these Crystals. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 is a classic linear switch that has remained a favorite in the community for a long time. It offers a smooth downstroke and a satisfying clack sound. While the Crystal switch is categorized as 'Chirpy', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished', the Ink Black V2 falls under the categories of 'Low-pitched', 'Bassy', 'Chirpy', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your specific needs and preferences.

By the numbers

Outemu Crystal Linear

Gateron Ink Black V2 Linear

$3.40 per 10

$7.50

$7.24 per 10

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Housing materials

The Outemu Crystal and the Gateron Ink Black V2 differ in their housing materials, with the Crystal featuring a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, while the Ink Black V2 incorporates a proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housing. The polycarbonate housing of the Crystal contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, which is ideal for those seeking a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the INK blend housing of the Ink Black V2 offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, characterized as "clacky." It provides a satisfying thin sound without being overly sharp.

While the top and bottom housings of the Crystal and the Ink Black V2 differ in material, they both contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, affecting the experience when pressing down on the switch. Thus, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Crystal and the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Black V2 will have similar impacts on the switch's sound and tactile feedback during keypresses. On the other hand, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. As such, the polycarbonate top housing of the Crystal and the INK blend top housing of the Ink Black V2 will exhibit distinct sound characteristics when keys are released.

In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate housing of the Crystal's top and bottom provides transparency that allows for RGB lighting effects, making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize visual customization. In contrast, the Ink Black V2 with its INK blend housing does not offer translucency, potentially limiting the range of lighting effects that can be achieved. However, the Ink Black V2 compensates for this with its clacky sound profile and unique tactile feedback, appealing to those who prefer a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two housing materials depends on individual preferences for sound, feel, and visual customization options.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Crystal has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes with a lighter touch. In contrast, the Ink Black V2 requires a heavier actuation force of 60 grams. This means that typing on the Ink Black V2 may require a slightly firmer press.

In terms of bottom out force, the Crystal has a measurement of 55 grams, which is slightly heavier than its actuation force but still falls within the medium-light range. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which indicates a medium-heavy feel. This suggests that when typing on the Ink Black V2, users will experience a more substantial push and a slightly firmer bottoming out sensation compared to the Crystal.

Considering weight preferences, those who prefer a lighter typing experience, suitable for longer periods of typing or extended gaming sessions, may opt for the Crystal due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces. Conversely, users who enjoy a stronger push and desire a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Ink Black V2 with its higher actuation and bottom out forces.

However, it's worth noting that both switches fall within the linear switch category and have relatively close actuation and bottom out force measurements. As a result, while they may offer slightly different typing experiences, users can expect similar results in terms of the force required for keystrokes.

Travel distance

The Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a consistent and equal distance for users to feel when they press down on a key. Whether typing on the Crystal or the Ink Black V2, users can expect a similar tactile experience, as both switches cover the same distance from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, there is no significant difference between the two switches.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Crystal linear switch has a neutral sound profile. This means that it doesn't lean towards being too high-pitched or bassy. Instead, it offers a clean and balanced sound when typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch offers a low-pitched and bass-heavy sound profile. This gives it a deeper and richer tone during key presses. Additionally, both switches have a chirpy characteristic, with a little squeak to them. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Outemu Crystal switch provides a unique experience. It has a fairly elastic type feel with a medium-light weight. This combination results in a distinct linear typing sensation. The switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish. This leads to reduced friction and smooth key travel, providing a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 switch offers a mild typing experience. It falls in the safe middle-ground zone, providing a gentle feel to most users. Similar to the Crystal switch, the Ink Black V2 is also described as polished, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel.

In conclusion, while the Outemu Crystal and Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switches have some differences in sound and feel, they both offer desirable qualities. The Crystal switch provides a unique linear typing experience with a neutral sound profile and a polished feel, while the Ink Black V2 switch offers a smooth downstroke, rich clack, and a low-pitched, bass-heavy sound with a mild and polished feel. Depending on your preferences, either of these switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience. If you prefer a more balanced sound, smooth and elastic feel, the Crystal switch would be a great choice. However, if you enjoy a deeper, bassy sound and a milder typing experience, the Ink Black V2 switch would suit you well. Regardless of which switch you choose, both will provide similar results in terms of reduced friction and smooth key travel due to their polished finishes.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what typing experience you prioritize. The Crystal offers a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, resulting in a unique, linear typing experience. It also produces a neutral sound profile, making it a good choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience without sacrificing the satisfaction of key presses. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a slightly heavier and more pronounced typing feel. It offers a smooth downstroke and a rich clack sound, perfect for those who enjoy a more tactile and audible typing experience. Overall, if you prefer a lighter typing feel with a neutral sound profile, the Crystal would be a great option. Whereas, if you prefer a slightly heavier and more pronounced typing feel with a rich clack sound, the Ink Black V2 would be an excellent choice. Consider your preferences and desired typing experience to make the best decision for you.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Crystal Linear

$3.40 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Ink Black V2 Linear

$7.50

$7.24 per 10

Learn more