Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Gateron Jupiter Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Jupiter Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Jupiter Brown mechanical keyboard switches, it ultimately comes down to your personal typing preferences. The Ink Black V2 is a linear switch, offering a smooth downstroke and a rich clack sound. It is best known for its low-pitched, bassy, chirpy, mild, and polished characteristics, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts looking for a classic linear switch experience. On the other hand, the Jupiter Brown is a tactile switch that combines tradition with innovation, providing a more classic keystroke feel at a medium-heavy weight. With its mild, polished, and stepped characteristics, it offers a satisfying tactile feedback while maintaining a high level of precision and reliability. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
Spring steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Jupiter Brown, it is evident that both switches offer distinctive sound profiles due to their different housing materials. The Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend top and bottom housings result in a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the Jupiter Brown's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the Jupiter Brown switch leads to a more clear and resonant sound, especially beneficial for users planning to use RGB lighting. In contrast, the Jupiter Brown's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to nylon's softer plastic composition which absorbs more sound.
While both the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Jupiter Brown switches offer distinct sound profiles with their respective housing materials, it is noteworthy that the choice of material also impacts the feel of the switch. The INK blend top and bottom housings of the Ink Black V2 contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switch, creating a cohesive experience when typing. Conversely, the split housing materials of the Jupiter Brown, with a polycarbonate top and nylon bottom, distributes the qualities of each material between the top and bottom of the switch. The impact of the bottom housing is felt more during the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Jupiter Brown switches have different housing materials that result in unique sound profiles, they both excel in providing users with a satisfying typing experience. The INK blend top and bottom housings of the Ink Black V2 offer a clacky and thin sound profile, whereas the Jupiter Brown's polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings create a sharper and fuller sound. Whether it be the proprietary INK blend or a classic nylon material, both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in determining the overall feel and sound of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 55 grams. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 70 grams, making them both medium-heavy switches. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Jupiter Brown due to its lighter actuation force, while those who enjoy a slightly heavier push feel may prefer the Ink Black V2. Overall, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of bottom out force, with the main difference lying in the actuation force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing these two switches, their travel distance is not a distinguishing factor as they both offer the same amount of key travel. Whether you choose the Ink Black V2 or the Jupiter Brown, you can expect a consistent travel distance experience when typing. It's great to know that regardless of which switch you prefer, you will get similar results in terms of key travel distance.
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 Gateron Jupiter Brown comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 linear switch is known for its low-pitched and bassy characteristics, providing a mellow and rich tone during key presses. Additionally, the Ink Black V2 has a unique chirpy sound that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, there is no specific information available regarding the sound profile of the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch are described as offering a mild and polished typing experience. This means that they provide a gentle typing feel that is approachable to most users, as their qualities fall within a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, the polished finish of both switches results in smooth key travel and reduced friction, enhancing the overall typing experience. The Jupiter Brown also features a stepped tactile feel, providing a two-stage sensation with some pre-travel and/or post-travel, distinguishing it from the Ink Black V2.
Overall, both the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch offer high-quality performance and reliability. While the Ink Black V2 is known for its smooth downstroke and rich clack sound, the Jupiter Brown combines tradition with innovation, featuring a single-stage spring for a classic keystroke feel. Both switches boast high-precision molds and enhanced backlight effects, ensuring a satisfying typing experience. Whether you choose the linear Ink Black V2 or the tactile Jupiter Brown, you can expect a similar level of quality and performance from either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you prioritize a smooth downstroke with a rich clack sound, the Ink Black V2 may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a more classic keystroke feel and a medium-heavy weight, the Jupiter Brown could be the ideal choice. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and priorities.
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