TTC Gold Silver vs. Gateron Ink Black V2
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the Gateron Ink Black V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the TTC Gold Silver and the Gateron Ink Black V2 mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The TTC Gold Silver stands out for its rapid responsiveness and shortened travel, resulting in a decisive and solid bottom-out with each keystroke. Its resonant sound signature adds to the overall experience, making it a blend of speed, sound, and fluidity. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 is praised for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, being a long-time favorite in the community. While the Gold Silver is polished and low-pitched, the Ink Black V2 is characterized as bassy and chirpy. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
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
18mm spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Silver and the Gateron Ink Black V2, it is clear that they both offer unique sound profiles based on their top housing materials. The Gold Silver utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. In contrast, the Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend top housing offers a pointed and high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. While both materials provide distinct sound characteristics, the polycarbonate of the Gold Silver may offer a more resonant and clear sound compared to the Ink Black V2's INK blend.
On the other hand, when considering the bottom housing materials of the Gold Silver and the Ink Black V2, there are notable differences in sound profiles. The Gold Silver's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, attributed to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. In comparison, the Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend bottom housing offers a high-pitched and clacky sound profile, aligning with the characteristics of its top housing material. Despite their differences, both bottom housing materials play a crucial role in contributing to the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Although the housing materials of the TTC Gold Silver and the Gateron Ink Black V2 offer unique characteristics, users can expect similar results in terms of sound profiles and typing experience. Both switches feature top and bottom housings that complement each other to create a coherent typing feel and sound. By balancing the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials, each switch is able to provide a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Whether it be the sharper and crisper sound of the Gold Silver or the clacky sound of the Ink Black V2, users can expect high-quality performance from both switches.
Weight
The TTC Gold Silver linear 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, the Gold Silver does not provide information on its bottom out force, while the Ink Black V2 has a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. Lighter actuation forces are beneficial for extended typing or gaming sessions, as they require less effort to press down the keys. On the other hand, heavier actuation forces provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and the desired level of force required for key presses.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm, while the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm. This makes the Ink Black V2 the longer-travel option compared to the Gold Silver. However, both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances for mechanical keyboards. Gamers may prefer the Gold Silver for its slightly shorter travel distance, as it can lead to faster response times. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Ink Black V2. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. With both switches offering a similar experience, you can expect comparable results in terms of performance and feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Silver has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Silver for $2.90.
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 Silver switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, giving each keystroke a deep and rich tone. This resonant sound signature aligns perfectly with its rapid and precise nature, adding to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 switch provides a low-pitched and bassy sound with a unique chirpiness that sets it apart. Both switches cater to different preferences in sound, with the Gold Silver focusing on a deep and satisfying thock, while the Ink Black V2 offers a richer bass tone with a hint of chirpiness.
In terms of feel, the TTC Gold Silver switch stands out for its polished and silky typing experience. With reduced friction and smooth key travel, each keystroke feels refined and effortless. The Gold Silver switch also falls in the mild and subtle category, making it suitable for a wide range of users looking for a smooth and gentle typing feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, emphasizing smoothness and reduced resistance for a comfortable typing session. Both switches provide a refined and comfortable typing experience, with the Gold Silver leaning towards a subtle approach and the Ink Black V2 offering a slightly gentler feel.
Overall, both the TTC Gold Silver and Gateron Ink Black V2 switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the Gold Silver switch excels in providing a thocky and polished typing experience with a swift and precise keystroke, the Gateron Ink Black V2 switch offers a rich and bassy sound profile with a smooth and gentle typing feel. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches deliver exceptional performance that guarantees a satisfying typing experience. Whether you choose the Gold Silver or the Ink Black V2, you can expect similar results in terms of quality and user experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, you should choose this option if you prioritize rapid responsiveness, a solid bottom-out feel, and a resonant sound signature. The Gold Silver is best suited for those who prefer a smooth keystroke with a decisive closure and a blend of speed, sound, and fluidity. On the other hand, if you are looking for a classic linear switch with a smooth downstroke and a rich clack sound, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch would be the better choice. The Ink Black V2 excels in providing a medium-heavy bottom out force along with a low-pitched and bassy sound profile. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value speed and precision (TTC Gold Silver) or a traditional feel with a satisfying sound (Gateron Ink Black V2).
Mentioned in this article
