Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Everglide Lightning Silver V3
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 mechanical keyboard switches, both stand out for their unique characteristics. The Ink Black V2 is a classic linear switch loved for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, providing a satisfying typing experience with its low-pitched, bassy, chirpy, mild, and polished qualities. On the other hand, the Lightning Silver V3 offers a clacky and high-pitched sound signature, along with a silky typing experience thanks to its light diffuser feature that enhances RGB illumination. Whether you prefer the classic smoothness of the Ink Black V2 or the vibrant aesthetics and distinct sound of the Lightning Silver V3, both switches have something unique to offer. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Overall, both the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Black V2 provides a satisfying thin and clacky sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Lightning Silver V3 creates a sharper and crisper sound. In terms of aesthetics, the clear polycarbonate of the Lightning Silver V3 allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects, making it a visually appealing choice for those who enjoy customizing their keyboards.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing, both switches share similar characteristics due to their respective housing materials. The INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Black V2 offers a pointed and high-pitched sound profile, similar to the sharper and higher-pitched sound produced by the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Lightning Silver V3. This consistency in sound quality between the bottom housings of both switches ensures a cohesive typing experience regardless of which switch is chosen.
While the differences in top and bottom housing materials may impact the overall sound experience of each switch, it is important to note that both the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 offer a premium typing experience with their unique housing materials. Whether you prefer the clacky sound of the INK blend housing or the crisper sound of the polycarbonate housing, both switches deliver high-quality performance that caters to the preferences of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics.
Weight
Comparing the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, we see a difference in weight in terms of actuation and bottom out force. The Ink Black V2 has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Lightning Silver V3's lighter 48 grams. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Ink Black V2 is also heavier at 70 grams, while the Lightning Silver V3 requires 60 grams to bottom out. This means that the Ink Black V2 provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, whereas the Lightning Silver V3 offers a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Both switches fall within the medium-heavy and medium range, respectively, allowing users to choose based on their preference for actuation and bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it slightly longer than the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. While both switches fall into the category of a more traditional travel distance, the Ink Black V2 offers a slightly deeper press compared to the Lightning Silver V3. For individuals who prefer a more responsive typing experience, the Lightning Silver V3 may be the preferred choice due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Ink Black V2. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience each individual is seeking.
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 Everglide Lightning Silver V3 has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lightning Silver V3 for $4.10.
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
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is renowned for its low-pitched and bassy sound profile, providing a mellow and rich auditory experience during typing sessions. In contrast, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound signature, delivering a sharp and crisp sound that is bright and percussive. When it comes to feel, the Ink Black V2 is described as mild and polished, providing a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. On the other hand, the Lightning Silver V3 is labeled as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing feel with reduced resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Overall, while the Ink Black V2 focuses on a smoother downstroke and rich clack, the Lightning Silver V3 prioritizes a clacky sound and seamless typing experience with the added bonus of a light diffuser for enhanced RGB illumination. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences. Investing in either switch would result in a satisfying typing experience, tailored to individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a smoother downstroke and rich clack sound, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch would be your best choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a clacky, high-pitched sound and a unique light diffuser for enhanced RGB illumination, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch is the one for you. Consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel when deciding between these two switches, as they each offer distinct characteristics tailored to different preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what typing experience you value most in your mechanical keyboard setup.
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