Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Jerrzi Orange
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Jerrzi Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Jerrzi Orange mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Ink Black V2 is favored for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, providing a low-pitched and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange is known for its clacky and lightweight feel, offering a lively and audible feedback with each keystroke. While the Gateron switch may be preferred for its mild and bassy characteristics, the Jerrzi switch appeals to those who enjoy a feathery and easy-to-press typing sensation. Each switch has its own set of qualities that make it stand out, making it essential to consider your personal preferences before making a choice. 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
60g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Black V2 features a proprietary INK blend top housing that provides a satisfying, thin, and higher-pitched sound profile which is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange switch utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The polycarbonate material is known for its stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. While both housing materials offer a similar high-pitched sound, the polycarbonate top housing of the Jerrzi Orange may provide a more distinct and defined sound compared to the INK blend top housing of the Gateron Ink Black V2.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Gateron Ink Black V2 also features the proprietary INK blend, which contributes to the overall sound profile of the switch. The Nylon bottom housing of the Jerrzi Orange, on the other hand, offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the INK blend bottom housing of the Gateron Ink Black V2. Both bottom housings provide a unique sound experience and tactile feedback, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of mechanical keyboards. While the Gateron Ink Black V2 and Jerrzi Orange switches may offer similar high-pitched sound characteristics in their top housings, the use of different materials in their bottom housings results in distinct sound profiles. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, fuller sound, the housing materials of these switches contribute to a unique typing experience that can cater to a variety of preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a significantly higher actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Jerrzi Orange linear switch's 37 grams, making the Orange switch lighter in this aspect. However, the bottom out force of the Ink Black V2 is 70 grams, while the Jerrzi Orange switch's bottom out force is unknown, resulting in a heavier typing experience for the Ink Black V2. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience might lean towards the Gateron Ink Black V2 due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces, while those who enjoy a lighter touch may prefer the Jerrzi Orange switch. In both cases, users will receive varying levels of feedback and resistance based on their preference for typing and gaming experiences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Orange linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. The difference may not seem significant, but for some users, the shorter travel distance on the Orange switch may provide a quicker response time, which can be beneficial for gaming or quick typing tasks. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 may offer a slightly deeper feel when pressed, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Jerrzi Orange has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $2.30.
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 Gateron Ink Black V2 offers a low-pitched and bassy tone during key presses, creating a rich and mellow sound profile that many enthusiasts appreciate. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange switches produce a clacky and sharp sound, providing a crisp and lively typing experience with each keystroke. While the Ink Black V2 leans towards a deeper and richer sound, the Orange switches deliver a more percussive and bright audial feedback, catering to those who enjoy a more vibrant typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the Ink Black V2 provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and refined key travel that is approachable to most users. The polished finish of these switches reduces friction and enhances the overall typing feel, making for a comfortable and pleasant typing experience. Conversely, the Jerrzi Orange switches are described as feathery and easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate and providing a light and effortless typing feel. These switches aim to reduce finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, making them ideal for gaming, school, or work purposes.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and Jerrzi Orange switches each offer their unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Ink Black V2 provides a more bassy and mellow sound with a polished typing experience, the Jerrzi Orange switches deliver a clacky and lively sound with a feathery and easy-to-press typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference, with both options aiming to cater to enthusiasts seeking a premium and responsive typing experience. Whether you opt for the Ink Black V2 or the Jerrzi Orange, you can expect to achieve similar results in terms of overall satisfaction and quality.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Jerrzi Orange linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth downstroke with a rich clack sound profile, the Ink Black V2 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a light and clacky feel with an audible feedback for each keystroke, the Jerrzi Orange switch could be the perfect fit. Additionally, if you are drawn to a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, the Ink Black V2 might be more appealing to you, whereas if you prefer a subdued and clacky sound, the Orange switch could be more to your liking. Furthermore, if you seek a mild and polished typing experience, the Ink Black V2 may suit your preferences, while a feathery and easy-to-press feel can be found with the Jerrzi Orange switch. Ultimately, your decision should align with your typing preferences and desired typing experience. Choose the switch that best complements your style and enhances your overall typing enjoyment.
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