Jerrzi Honey Bean vs. Gateron Ink Black V2
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the Gateron Ink Black V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the Gateron Ink Black V2 mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes evident that they both excel in providing a smooth and linear typing experience. The Honey Bean is best known for its light and silent operation, making it an ideal choice for office or shared environments where noise reduction is essential. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 stands out for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, offering a classic linear feel that has been a favorite within the keyboard community for quite some time. While the Honey Bean is described as 'Easy-to-press', 'Feathery', and 'Muted', the Ink Black V2 is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Bassy', 'Chirpy', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. These distinctions highlight the unique qualities of each switch, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
42g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
POM
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 Jerrzi Honey Bean and the Gateron Ink Black V2 both utilize unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Honey Bean's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend top housing produces a pointed and higher-pitched sound that is described as clacky. This contrast in sound profiles showcases how the choice of housing material can greatly influence the overall typing experience.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Honey Bean and the Ink Black V2 feature POM and proprietary INK blend materials respectively. The POM bottom housing of the Honey Bean also creates a deep and muted sound, similar to its top housing. Conversely, the proprietary INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Black V2 adds to the clacky and high-pitched sound profile of the switch. This demonstrates how the combination of top and bottom housing materials can work together to create a balanced and cohesive typing experience.
In terms of how the housing materials impact the typing feel, the bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed. On the other hand, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when the key is released. This distinction highlights the importance of both top and bottom housing materials in creating a well-rounded typing experience that caters to both the tactile and auditory senses of the user.
Weight
The Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch is lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, with 42 grams versus 60 grams, respectively. The bottom out force for the Honey Bean is unknown, while the Ink Black V2 has a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it heavier in comparison. Those who prefer a lighter touch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Honey Bean, while those who enjoy a more robust typing experience may opt for the Ink Black V2. Similar results can be achieved with both switches by selecting the one that best suits individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Honey Bean being on the shorter end and the Ink Black V2 being slightly longer, the difference in travel distance may impact the feel and responsiveness of the switches. Gamers seeking faster response times may prefer the Honey Bean with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more deliberate key press may lean towards the Ink Black V2 with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Honey Bean has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey Bean for $3.59.
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 Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch is known for its muted and quiet operation, making it ideal for environments where noise reduction is essential. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch offers a low-pitched and rich clack sound profile, with a hint of chirpiness that sets it apart. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference for sound, with the Honey Bean providing a more discreet typing experience while the Ink Black V2 offering a deeper and more bass-heavy sound.
When it comes to feel, the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch is described as easy-to-press and feathery, providing a light and effortless typing experience with minimal finger fatigue. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is characterized as mild and polished, offering a gentler typing feel and smooth key travel. Both switches seem to aim for a comfortable typing experience, but the choice between them would depend on whether one prefers a lighter touch with the Honey Bean or a more refined feel with the Ink Black V2.
Overall, both the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Honey Bean excels in providing a quiet and easy typing experience, the Ink Black V2 leans towards a rich and polished feel with a bit of character in its sound profile. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on personal preference for sound, typing feel, and the overall typing experience desired. If the qualities desired are similar, both switches would likely provide a satisfying and comparable typing experience for newcomers.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, consider your environment and personal preferences. If you value a silent typing experience with minimal noise, the Honey Bean switch would be a great choice for office or shared spaces. Its light and linear feel makes typing effortless and comfortable. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a smooth downstroke and rich clack sound, the Gateron Ink Black V2 would be a good fit. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to whether you prioritize a discreet typing experience or a more classic linear switch feel. Consider your needs and preferences carefully to make the best decision for your keyboard setup.
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