Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Keygeek Keygeek Raw
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Keygeek Raw both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Ink Black V2, a classic linear switch, is hailed for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, making it a favorite among the community. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw stands out with its material blend, combining Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon to create a creamy yet lightweight feel. While the Ink Black V2 is praised for its low-pitched and bassy sound profile, the Keygeek Raw offers a slightly textured feel and a subtle typing experience. Both switches have their strengths and appeal to different preferences. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches offer distinct characteristics that impact the overall typing experience. The Ink Black V2 features a proprietary INK blend top housing that results in a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound, described as clacky. In contrast, the Keygeek Raw utilizes a Nylon & UPE blend top housing exclusive to their switches. While both materials contribute to the sound profile, the INK blend may provide a sharper and more pointed sound compared to the Keygeek Raw's blend.
Turning to the bottom housing materials, the Ink Black V2 employs the same proprietary INK blend as the top housing, emphasizing a consistent sound profile throughout the switch. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw utilizes a UMPE & Si blend exclusive to their switches for the bottom housing. This difference in materials could impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, offering a unique typing experience compared to the Gateron switch. Despite these variations, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their distinct housing materials.
In terms of overall impact on typing, the housing materials of the switches play a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of each keystroke. While the Keygeek Raw and Gateron Ink Black V2 switches feature unique housing blends for both the top and bottom, the qualities of the materials are split between the two components. This division allows for a balance of impact on both the bottom-out sound and feel, as well as the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, whether using the Ink Black V2 or Keygeek Raw switches, the housing materials contribute significantly to the overall typing experience, offering users a choice based on their sound and feel preferences.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a higher actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Keygeek Raw linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Ink Black V2 is also higher at 70 grams, whereas the Keygeek Raw has a bottom out force of 57.5 grams. This makes the Ink Black V2 a heavier switch overall, providing a more substantial typing experience. The Keygeek Raw, on the other hand, offers a lighter touch, which may be preferred by those looking for a switch that requires less force for extended typing sessions. Both switches offer a medium level of force overall, with the Ink Black V2 leaning towards the heavier side and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw on the lighter side. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Ink Black V2 has a longer travel distance compared to the Keygeek Raw. The shorter travel distance of the Keygeek Raw may appeal to those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Ink Black V2 may provide a more substantive feel for those who prefer a deeper keystroke. Both options offer different advantages depending on personal preferences, but ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to individual typing style and comfort.
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 Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
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, with a slight chirpiness that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard itself and the keycaps used, so it's important to consider these variables when choosing between the two switches.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Black V2 offers a mild and polished typing experience, with a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek key press. In contrast, the Keygeek Raw switch provides a textured feel out of the box, with noticeable friction that some users may prefer for its unique typing sensation. Additionally, the Keygeek Raw switch is described as having a mild and subtle resistance, making it suitable for shared spaces where a quiet typing experience is desired.
Considering the available information, both the Gateron Ink Black V2 and Keygeek Raw linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different user preferences. The Ink Black V2 is praised for its smooth downstroke and rich clack sound, while the Keygeek Raw stands out for its creamy yet lightweight construction and slightly textured feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience. However, both switches offer quality options that can enhance your overall mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Keygeek Raw linear switch, consider your preferences for actuation force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams and enjoy a low-pitched, bassy, and slightly chirpy sound profile, the Ink Black V2 may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force of 57.5 grams and value a neutral sound profile, as well as a switch with a unique material blend that provides a creamy yet lightweight feel out of the box, the Keygeek Raw may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision boils down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking for. Consider trying out both switches to see which one suits your typing style and preferences best.
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