Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. HMX Lucky
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the HMX Lucky switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves choosing between two popular linear options: the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the HMX Lucky. The Ink Black V2 is celebrated for its classic design, providing a smooth downstroke complemented by a rich, bassy sound that many users adore. This switch is known for its low-pitched, polished feel, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a deeper auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the HMX Lucky switches deliver a distinct typing experience through their softer nylon housing, contributing to a lightweight feel that many find deeply satisfying and neutral. While both switches share a linear design that promotes seamless keystrokes, they cater to different preferences in sound and tactile feedback. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the HMX Lucky, it becomes clear that their compositions lead to distinctly different acoustic profiles. The Ink Black V2 features a proprietary blend characterized by a pointed, high-pitched sound that resonates with a clacky tone, especially prominent during key releases. This unique quality is attributed to the specific formulation of Gateron's INK blend, which is crafted to enhance sharpness without being overly piercing. In contrast, the HMX Lucky utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings. This classic material embraces a deeper, fuller sound profile, owing to its softer nature. The nylon's ability to absorb sound results in a rounder acoustic signature, making it a favored choice among those who prefer a more muted auditory experience while typing.
The differences in materials also extend to the tactile experience offered by these switches. The Ink Black V2, with its proprietary INK blend, provides a signature sound and feel that leans toward a bright and lively experience. In contrast, the HMX Lucky's nylon housing contributes to a cushioned typing feel, characterized by a more subdued sound on bottom-outs and key releases. The way each housing material interacts with key presses directly affects the overall performance and satisfaction of the switch. Users of the Ink Black V2 may appreciate the pronounced auditory feedback, while those who opt for the HMX Lucky would find pleasure in the richer, more rounded resulting sounds.
Despite these differences, there is a scenario where users may achieve similar results depending on their preferences when selecting switches. If one's typing technique emphasizes lighter touch and quicker key releases, the effects of the housing materials may overlap, where both the pointed sound of the Ink Black V2 and the deeper tone of the Lucky can yield satisfying auditory feedback. This variability underscores the impact of personal typing style on the overall experience. Understanding how each switch's housing contributes to the acoustics allows key enthusiasts the ability to customize their setups according to their acoustic preferences, thus reinforcing the significance of material choice in achieving the desired typing sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch, notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Ink Black V2 requires an actuation force of 60 grams and bottoms out at 70 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Lucky switch boasts a much lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a gentler touch when typing or gaming. Overall, the Ink Black V2 is distinctly heavier than the Lucky switch, offering a stronger push feel that might appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Consequently, for those prioritizing comfort over extended sessions, the HMX Lucky could provide a better choice with its lighter forces, while enthusiasts of a firmer typing feel might gravitate towards the Ink Black V2.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch, it is evident that the Ink Black V2 has a slightly longer travel distance at 4 mm, while the Lucky measures at 3.8 mm. This makes the Ink Black V2 the choice for those who prefer a more pronounced depth in their keypress, as the longer travel distance can contribute to a more satisfying tactile experience. In contrast, the HMX Lucky's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers and users seeking quicker response times, as its 3.8 mm design allows for faster actuation. Overall, if you're looking for a switch that feels more substantial, the Gateron Ink Black V2 would be the preferable option, whereas the HMX Lucky is better suited for those prioritizing speed and responsiveness.
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 HMX Lucky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lucky for $2.99.
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
The sound of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is characterized by a unique combination of low-pitched, bassy tones that contribute to a richer auditory experience when typing. This switch’s low frequency generates a mellow, pleasant backdrop to your keystrokes, while the slight chirp adds a distinctive character that sets it apart from other linear switches. The overall sound profile creates an engaging auditory environment that many users appreciate. On the other hand, the HMX Lucky switch's sound characteristics remain unknown, which leaves room for uncertainty in how it compares to the Ink Black V2 in this aspect. However, sound quality can also be heavily influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and chosen keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Ink Black V2 is described as providing a mild and polished typing experience. The mild nature of the switch lends itself to an approachable feel, making it suitable for various users, whether they are casual typists or seasoned gamers. This gentleness is complemented by a polished surface that enhances smooth key travel, reducing friction for a refined typing experience. In contrast, the feel of the HMX Lucky switch is not specified, meaning it’s hard to draw direct comparisons. Without detailed information about its tactile qualities or smoothness, one can only guess how it would fare against the Ink Black V2's well-regarded characteristics.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch offers a well-rounded auditory and tactile experience with its low-pitched, rich sound and mild, polished feel, the specifics surrounding the HMX Lucky switch remain largely unknown. If you’re seeking a keyboard switch that combines a satisfying sound and a refined typing experience, the Ink Black V2 stands out as a solid choice. However, if you are curious about the Lucky switches, further exploration will be necessary to gauge their performance, particularly in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To wrap up, your choice between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the HMX Lucky linear switches largely depends on your personal preferences for typing feel, force, and sound profile. If you prefer a heavier, more tactile typing experience with a bottom-out force of 70 grams, the Ink Black V2 is well-suited for you. Its medium-heavy feel, combined with a smooth downstroke and a rich, low-pitched, and bassy sound, makes it a fantastic choice if you enjoy a more substantial key press and appreciate the satisfying acoustics it offers. This switch is ideal for those who find comfort in a pronounced typing feel and may enjoy the more distinctive, gentle clack that comes with each keystroke.
On the other hand, if you lean towards lighter switches, the HMX Lucky with its 43-gram bottom-out force might be the better fit. Its lightweight action promotes rapid typing and alleviates fatigue during prolonged use, making it more suitable for gamers or professionals who type extensively and value speed and agility. The softer, glittery nylon housing provides a neutral and deeply satisfying feel, while the lack of a pronounced sound profile allows for a more subdued typing environment. Ultimately, your selection boils down to whether you prioritize a heavy, tactile experience or a lighter, quicker response. Consider what aspects matter most to you in a keyboard experience to make an informed choice between these two excellent switches.
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