Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Gateron Jupiter Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Jupiter Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Jupiter Red mechanical keyboard switches, it's evident that both offer a smooth linear typing experience. The Ink Black V2 is praised for its classic linear design, providing a smooth downstroke and a rich clack sound. This switch is known for its low-pitched, bassy, and polished feel. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red boasts a medium-heavy actuation and high-precision molds, delivering a seamless and consistent typing experience. It is described as polished, creamy, and silky. Both switches cater to those who enjoy a linear typing feel, but each offers unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Jupiter Red, one striking difference is the material used for the top housing. The Ink Black V2 employs a proprietary INK blend that results in a relatively high-pitched and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red utilizes polycarbonate, which creates a sharper and crisper sound due to its stiffness. The clear polycarbonate housing of the Jupiter Red also allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects, adding a visual appeal to the switch that the Ink Black V2 may not possess.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Ink Black V2 and Jupiter Red also diverge. The Ink Black V2 features a bottom housing made of the same proprietary INK blend as the top housing, resulting in a similar sound profile throughout the switch. In contrast, the Jupiter Red utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, which leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a rounder and duller sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the INK blend in the Ink Black V2.
Overall, while both switches offer unique sound profiles due to their housing materials, the Ink Black V2 and the Jupiter Red provide distinct auditory experiences. The INK blend in the Ink Black V2 creates a high-pitched and clacky sound, while the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Jupiter Red results in a sharper and fuller sound. The choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound and aesthetics, with the Ink Black V2 offering a consistent tone throughout and the Jupiter Red providing a more dynamic acoustic range.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a higher actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch with an actuation force of 45 grams, making the Ink Black V2 heavier. However, both switches have similar bottom out forces, with the Ink Black V2 requiring 70 grams and the Jupiter Red requiring 60 grams. The difference in actuation force means that the Ink Black V2 will provide a more substantial typing experience, requiring a stronger push feel, while the Jupiter Red will offer a lighter touch, allowing for longer typing periods without fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on either key, users will experience a consistent travel distance before actuation. The equal travel distance ensures that typing or gaming on either switch will result in similar tactile feedback and overall feel. With both switches offering the same travel distance, users can expect a comparable typing experience regardless of which one they choose.
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 Red 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is known for its low-pitched and bassy tones, providing a rich clack and a mellow sound during key presses. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, offering a moderate tone that is suitable for a wide range of users and settings. Ultimately, the sound produced by both switches will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, both the Gateron Ink Black V2 and Jupiter Red switches are described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. The Ink Black V2 is noted for its mild and polished feel, providing a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Meanwhile, the Jupiter Red switch is also polished and boasts a creamy and silky typing sensation, allowing for effortless keystrokes with minimal resistance. Both switches fall into the category of mild switches, providing a comfortable typing experience that will be approachable to most users.
Overall, while the Gateron Ink Black V2 and Jupiter Red linear switches have some differences in their sound and feel characteristics, they both offer a smooth and consistent typing experience. Users can expect a high level of quality and precision from both switches, making them top choices for those looking for linear switches with varying sound and feel profiles. Whether you prefer a rich clack with a bassy tone or a neutral sound with a creamy feel, both the Ink Black V2 and Jupiter Red switches are solid options for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and enjoy a low-pitched, bassy sound profile with a mild and polished feel, the Ink Black V2 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and appreciate a neutral sound profile with a polished, creamy, silky, or mild feel, the Jupiter Red could be just what you're looking for. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preferences in terms of actuation force, sound, and feel. So, take your time to explore and determine which switch aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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