Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Zuoce Lavender
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Zuoce Lavender switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Zuoce Lavender mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer a smooth typing experience with distinct characteristics. The Ink Black V2 is praised for its classic linear feel, featuring a smooth downstroke and rich clack, while the Lavender stands out for its exceptional smoothness and crisp, clacky sound signature. The Ink Black V2 is described as low-pitched, bassy, chirpy, mild, and polished, while the Lavender is categorized as easy-to-press and clacky. Both switches have their own unique qualities that make them appealing options for 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
48g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Zuoce Lavender both have unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Ink Black V2 features a proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing, which results in a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. In contrast, the Lavender utilizes POM top and bottom housings, creating a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both switches offer satisfying typing experiences, the INK blend housing of the Ink Black V2 produces a sound that is sharper and brighter, while the POM housing of the Lavender offers a deeper and more subdued sound.
The differences in the top housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Zuoce Lavender result in contrasting sound profiles when pressing down on the keys. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Black V2 contributes to a higher-pitched and clacky sound, while the POM top housing of the Lavender produces a more pleasing and unique deep sound. However, when it comes to the bottom housing materials, both switches share similar qualities – the INK blend and POM bottom housings both enhance the bottom-out sound and feel of the keys, albeit with slight differences in pitch and tone.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Zuoce Lavender play a crucial role in defining the sound and feel of each switch. While the INK blend top housing of the Ink Black V2 results in a sharper and more distinct sound when releasing a key, the POM top housing of the Lavender creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, with the bottom housing materials influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing materials contribute to the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, whether you prefer a clacky and high-pitched sound or a deep and muted sound will depend on your personal preference when choosing between these two switches.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a higher actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Zuoce Lavender linear switch. The Ink Black V2 requires 60 grams of force to actuate and 70 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Lavender only needs 48 grams to actuate and 53 grams to bottom out, putting it in the medium-light category. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Lavender more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who enjoy a more substantial push may lean towards the heavier Ink Black V2. Both switches offer a different feel in terms of weight, allowing users to choose based on their personal preference for typing comfort and performance.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is 4 mm, while the Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Lavender switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Ink Black V2 switch. The difference may not be significant to some users, but those who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the Lavender switch. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 switch may appeal to those who prefer a slightly deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience you are looking for.
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 Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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 characteristics, offering a deep and rich sound profile with a hint of chirpiness. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch is distinguished by its clacky sound signature, providing a sharp and snappy sound with each key press. Both switches deliver a satisfying auditory experience, with the Ink Black V2 leaning towards a more mellow tone and the Lavender producing a crisp and bright sound. Ultimately, the sound produced by either switch will be influenced by the overall keyboard setup including the board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is described as mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with smooth key travel and reduced friction. In contrast, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch is characterized as easy-to-press, providing minimal resistance during key presses for effortless typing and reduced finger fatigue. While the Ink Black V2 excels in providing a refined typing experience with its polished feel, the Lavender focuses on ease of use and responsive typing feel. Depending on personal preference for typing resistance and keypress smoothness, both switches offer unique advantages in terms of tactile feedback.
Overall, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch each have their own strengths in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Black V2 embodies a deep, bassy sound with a smoother, more balanced typing feel, while the Lavender offers a distinctive clacky sound and easy-to-press sensation for comfortable typing. Both switches are well-regarded in the mechanical keyboard community and choosing between them will ultimately depend on individual preferences for sound profile and typing experience. If one enjoys the qualities of the Ink Black V2 or Lavender, they can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel respectively.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch, you should consider your preferences for typing feel and sound profile. If you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a low-pitched and bassy sound, as well as a mild and polished typing experience, then the Ink Black V2 may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light switch with a clacky sound and an easy-to-press typing feel, then the Lavender switch might be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and what attributes you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
