Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Durock Lupine, two exceptional linear mechanical keyboard switches with their own unique characteristics. The Ink Black V2 is a beloved choice within the keyboard community, lauded for its smooth downstroke and satisfying clack. With a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, it offers a mild and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Lupine stands out for its two-stage long springs, providing a consistent weight distribution and a powerful upward movement on the rebound. The sound of this switch is a classic clacky sound profile, with a neutral and high-pitched tone. Both switches have their merits, making it difficult to choose. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Durock Lupine differ in terms of their housing materials. The Ink Black V2 features a proprietary INK blend top housing, while the Lupine utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. The INK blend by Gateron offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, described as clacky. On the other hand, the polycarbonate housing of the Lupine creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for housing switches with RGB lighting.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Ink Black V2 once again employs Gateron's proprietary INK blend, which provides a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound. In contrast, the Lupine incorporates a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, the nylon bottom housing of the Lupine creates a duller and rounder sound when typing.
When comparing the impact of the housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switch, it is important to note that the qualities of the top and bottom housing are separate. Pressing down on the switch will predominantly highlight the qualities of the bottom housing, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a pressed key. Therefore, while the Ink Black V2 and the Lupine have different housing materials, they offer distinct sound profiles for both the pressing and releasing actions.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. The Ink Black V2 has an actuation force of 60 grams, which is lighter compared to the Lupine, for which the actuation force is unavailable. However, both switches have a medium level of bottom out force, with the Ink Black V2 measuring at 70 grams and the Lupine at 62 grams.
Considering the weight aspect, those who prefer a lighter switch may find the Ink Black V2 more appealing, as it allows for comfortable and extended typing sessions, making it suitable for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who desire a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience might lean towards the Lupine, as it provides a slightly heavier bottom out force.
While it is difficult to directly compare the actuation force of the two switches due to the unavailability of the Lupine's value, it can be assumed that the Ink Black V2 has a lighter actuation force in this case. However, in terms of bottoming out, both switches fall within the medium range, offering a similar typing experience in that regard. Thus, individuals seeking a responsive and moderately weighted linear switch may find suitable options in either the Gateron Ink Black V2 or the Durock Lupine.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0mm, while the Durock Lupine linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7mm. This means that the Lupine has a shallower key press compared to the Ink Black V2. The difference may seem minor, but it can have an impact on the typing experience. A 4.0mm travel distance is more traditional and provides a deeper, more substantial key press. On the other hand, the 3.7mm travel distance of the Lupine offers a slightly quicker response time, which can be advantageous for gamers or those who prefer a more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with the Ink Black V2 offering a deeper feel and the Lupine providing a slightly shorter and quicker key press action.
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 Durock Lupine has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lupine for $4.25.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Black V2 has a low-pitched and bassy profile. This means that the sound produced by these switches will have a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, offering a deeper and richer sound during key presses. Additionally, these switches have a unique chirpy characteristic, adding a little squeak to their acoustic signature. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine has a more neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes. They produce a moderate sound and can be described as high-pitched, providing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. It's worth noting that the sound of these switches can also be affected by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, both the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Durock Lupine are described as mild switches, offering a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. They both provide an approachable feel, as their qualities fall within a safe, middle-ground zone. Additionally, both switches are described as polished, which means they have a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The use of high-quality materials or factory lubing contributes to this polished feel. Therefore, users can expect a comfortable and satisfying typing experience with both options.
Overall, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Durock Lupine offer different sound profiles but share similar qualities in terms of feel. While the Ink Black V2 provides a low-pitched, bassy, and chirpy sound, the Lupine offers a more neutral and high-pitched sound. However, both switches deliver a mild and polished typing experience, ensuring comfortable and smooth key presses. Whether you prefer a deeper, bass-heavy sound or a neutral, crisp sound, both switches will provide satisfying results in terms of feel. The final choice will depend on your personal sound preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a smooth downstroke and rich clack, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is a great choice. It offers a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, which can be appealing if you prefer a deeper and mellow tone during key presses. Additionally, the Ink Black V2 provides a mild and polished typing experience, ensuring a gentle feel and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-force switch with a two-stage long spring system, the Durock Lupine linear switch is worth considering. These switches offer a consistent weight distribution on the downstroke and a more powerful upward movement on the rebound. The Lupine switch produces a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes. It has a moderate actuation force requirement and is high-pitched, delivering a sharp and crisp sound when pressed.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and Durock Lupine switches depends on your personal preferences regarding the bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. Consider factors such as your desired key press experience, noise level preference, and overall typing comfort when making your decision. Both switches have their own unique qualities, so it's important to choose the one that aligns best with your preferences and typing style.
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