Huano Grape Orange vs. Gateron Ink Black V2

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Grape Orange and Gateron Ink Black V2 both offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, but they cater to different preferences. The Huano Grape Orange, known for its ultra-low 40g actuation force, provides an exceptionally light and effortless typing experience, making it an ideal choice for users who engage in prolonged typing sessions and appreciate a quick response with minimal resistance. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Black V2 is celebrated for its smooth downstroke and rich clack sound, appealing to those who enjoy a more tactile experience while typing and prefer the satisfying auditory feedback of a low-pitched, bassy switch. While both switches fall into the linear category, their distinct features may make one a better fit for your needs than the other. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

Huano Grape Orange Linear

Gateron Ink Black V2 Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

$7.50

$7.24 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials used in the Huano Grape Orange and Gateron Ink Black V2 switches exhibit notable differences that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The top housing of the Grape Orange is made from polycarbonate, renowned for its stiffness that produces a sharper and crisper sound. This clear material not only enhances sound clarity but also complements RGB lighting effects, making it aesthetically pleasing and functional for gamers and typists who prefer vibrant keyboard backlighting. In contrast, the Ink Black V2 features a proprietary INK blend for its top housing. This INK material, while still yielding a high-pitched sound, is described as less sharply defined than polycarbonate, resulting in a more clacky sound that's less piercing than that of the Grape Orange. Thus, while both switches may produce elevated sound characteristics, the material choice shapes the nuance of those sounds differently.

The bottom housing of these switches further diversifies their auditory experiences. The Grape Orange employs nylon, a classic notable for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic composition which absorbs sound rather than amplifying it. This results in a more rounded auditory experience that contrasts with the higher-pitched elements of the top housing. The Ink Black V2 also utilizes an INK blend for its bottom housing, which maintains the pointed and high-pitched sound profile characteristic of its top casing. However, this blend also lends a touch of similar depth to the sound, creating a balanced sound dynamic that plays well off the inherent qualities of the top housing. While the Grape Orange relies on the typical contrast between its nylon bottom and polycarbonate top, the Ink Black V2 has more consistency in its sound profile between the two housings.

When considering the combined effects of the housing materials, both the Grape Orange and Ink Black V2 offer unique performance characteristics that cater to different preferences. In switches where the top and bottom housings differ, like the Grape Orange, the impact of the bottom material tends to dominate the bottom-out sound and feel during typing. Conversely, the Ink Black V2's dual INK blend maintains a cohesive sound experience, where the high-pitched and clacky nature is consistent throughout both halves. Ultimately, while both switches yield gratifying auditory responses, the Grape Orange might appeal to those who enjoy a more classical, deeper sound when bottoming out, while the Ink Black V2 may satisfy users looking for a modern and continuous high-pitched typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces are quite significant. The Grape Orange features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a suitable choice for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, ideal for long workdays or extensive gaming sessions. In contrast, the Ink Black V2 has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial feel while typing. This difference in weight means that the Grape Orange is the lighter option, while the Ink Black V2 is the heavier one. Consequently, individuals opting for a switch based on the desired typing experience would find the Grape Orange more accommodating for extended use, whereas the Ink Black V2 may prefer a firmer resistance for a more tactile feedback.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, it becomes evident that the two switches cater to different preferences. The Grape Orange has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it shorter than the Ink Black V2, which measures 4 mm. This slight difference in travel distance could influence the tactile experience significantly; gamers might favor the Grape Orange for its quicker response time, while users who appreciate a more substantial feeling when pressing down on keys may prefer the Ink Black V2 due to its longer travel distance. Ultimately, if you're looking for a switch that feels more responsive and immediate, the Grape Orange would be the better choice, whereas the Ink Black V2 would provide a more pronounced depth on each keystroke.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Huano Grape Orange switch lacks specific details about its acoustic profile, leaving its audible qualities somewhat ambiguous. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Black V2 is characterized by a low-pitched tone, making it sound deeper and more resonant—a bass-heavy quality that lends itself to a richer auditory experience during typing. The Ink Black V2 also has a noticeable chirp, adding an interesting nuance to its sound profile. This combination will typically offer a more robust auditory feedback compared to the possibly more subdued sound of the Grape Orange.

When considering the feel, the Grape Orange switch’s tactile feedback is not described, leaving potential users unaware of its specific attributes. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 provides a mild and polished feel, which contributes to a gentle yet satisfying typing experience. The polish inherent in the switch indicates a refined action that minimizes friction, allowing for smooth key travel and reducing the likelihood of finger fatigue, especially during prolonged use. While the Grape Orange promises an effortless typing experience due to its lighter actuation force, the lack of concrete details makes it hard to thoroughly assess how it compares.

Overall, while the Gateron Ink Black V2 presents a defined auditory and tactile profile characterized by a deep, mild, and polished performance, the Huano Grape Orange switch remains more ambiguous in its qualities. If you seek a smooth, richer sound with gentle feedback, the Ink Black V2 will likely meet those needs. However, if you prefer an exceptionally light typing experience for extended sessions without the known sound and feel specifications of the Grape Orange, you might enjoy the switch for its weight alone. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize the auditory experience and tactile pleasure provided by Ink Black V2 or the mystery and potential benefits of the Grape Orange's lightweight design.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Huano Grape Orange and Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switches ultimately boils down to your specific typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you seek a light and effortless typing experience, especially during extended sessions, the Grape Orange's 40g actuation force is hard to beat. It provides a smooth, gentle feel that minimizes fatigue, making it ideal for those who prioritize comfort while tackling long tasks like writing, programming, or general office work. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feedback and a richer auditory experience, the Ink Black V2 could be your go-to. With its 70 grams bottom out force, this switch delivers a medium-heavy touch, offering a polished and mild feel that balances smoothness and resistance. Moreover, the low-pitched, bassy sound profile adds an auditory richness that enhances the typing experience, making it great for gaming or immersive typing environments. Ultimately, understanding your typing style and sound preferences will guide you in selecting the switch that best complements your mechanical keyboard setup.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Grape Orange Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Ink Black V2 Linear

$7.50

$7.24 per 10

Learn more