TTC Gold Pink vs. Gateron Ink Black V2
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the Gateron Ink Black V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Gold Pink and the Gateron Ink Black V2, both of which are linear switches. The Gold Pink switch is renowned for its light and effortless typing experience, with an actuation force of just 37g. These switches are perfect for those who prioritize rapid typing or gaming, offering a satisfying level of feedback with their clacky sound. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 is a classic linear switch that has stood the test of time within the community. It boasts a smooth downstroke and a rich clack, making it a favorite amongst many users. While both switches share a polished feel, the Gold Pink switch is characterized as 'buttery', 'mild', 'feathery', 'subtle', while the Ink Black V2 is described as 'low-pitched', 'bassy', 'chirpy', 'mild'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
The housing materials used in the TTC Gold Pink and Gateron Ink Black V2 switches showcase distinct characteristics. The Gold Pink's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Made from a relatively stiffer plastic, the polycarbonate housing generates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 features Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing, creating a pointed and high-pitched sound without being overly sharp. This clacky sound profile offers a satisfying typing experience.
Moving to the bottom housing, the Gold Pink employs a nylon material known for its deep and fuller sound profile. As a softer plastic, nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Ink Black V2 utilizes Gateron's INK blend bottom housing, matching the pointed and high-pitched sound of its top housing. This combination contributes to the switch's clacky sound, enhancing the typing experience.
When it comes to comparing the two switches, it is important to note that the qualities of the housing materials will have different effects depending on whether they are used in the top or bottom housing. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, the top housing primarily impacts the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the housing materials in both the Gold Pink and the Ink Black V2 switches play a crucial role in defining the overall sound profile and typing experience, albeit with different characteristics.
Weight
When it comes to the actuation force and bottom out force, there is a noticeable difference between the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch. The Gold Pink has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch. This lighter actuation force allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue, making it an ideal choice for work or extended gaming sessions. In contrast, the Ink Black V2 has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. This heavier force may be preferred by those who enjoy a stronger push feel while typing. While the Gold Pink offers a lighter touch, the Ink Black V2 offers a medium-heavy feel, giving users a different tactile experience when compared to the lighter option. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch share the same travel distance of 4mm. Therefore, pressing down on a key with either switch will result in a similar experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and relatively short travel distance, providing users with a quick and responsive typing or gaming experience. Whether it's the Gold Pink or the Ink Black V2, users can expect a satisfying tactile feedback and smooth keystrokes as they navigate through their tasks.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch is known for delivering a clacky sound that offers a satisfying level of feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 is described as having a low-pitched, bassy sound profile with a unique chirpy quality. While the Gold Pink's sound is more characterized by its clackiness, the Ink Black V2 provides a deeper and richer tone during key presses. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Thus, both switches have distinct sound qualities, and selecting one over the other will depend on personal preference and desired sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Gold Pink switch is described as providing a buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished experience. It offers a smooth and fluid keystroke with a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The feathery actuation force reduces finger fatigue, making it comfortable for long typing sessions. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch contributes to reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 switch shares the same mild and polished characteristics, offering a gentle typing experience with smooth and refined key travel. Both switches fall within the safe middle-ground zone, ensuring an approachable feel for most users.
Taking all this information into account, it's evident that the TTC Gold Pink and Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switches have different subjective qualities. The Gold Pink is known for its clacky sound and light, lively typing experience, while the Ink Black V2 offers a low-pitched, bassy sound profile. In terms of feel, both switches provide a mild and polished typing experience. While the Gold Pink offers additional qualities such as a feathery and subtle feel, the Ink Black V2 ensures smooth key travel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences regarding sound, feel, and desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To summarize, if you prefer a light and lively typing experience with a fast and effortless feel, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. These switches have a bottom out force of 45 grams, making them some of the lightest switches available. They are designed for rapid typing and gaming, offering a satisfying level of feedback with a clacky sound. Additionally, the Gold Pink switches have a range of feel descriptors, including buttery, feathery, and subtle, which contribute to a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a smooth downstroke and rich clack, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch would be the better option. With a bottom out force of 70 grams, these switches offer a slightly heavier typing experience. The Ink Black V2 switches also have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Furthermore, they have a mild feel descriptor, meaning they provide a gentle typing experience that most users would find approachable.
Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a light and lively feel with a focus on speed and ease of typing, the TTC Gold Pink switches would be the ideal choice. However, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a smooth downstroke and rich clack, the Gateron Ink Black V2 switches would be more suitable for you. Consider the sound and feel descriptors mentioned earlier to further refine your decision.
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