Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Gateron Magnetic Jade
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Magnetic Jade offer distinct experiences for different user preferences. The Ink Black V2, a linear switch, has garnered a reputation as a long-time favorite among the keyboard community, thanks to its smooth downstroke and rich clack. It is characterized by its low-pitched yet bassy sound profile, making it ideal for those who appreciate a more subdued auditory feedback while typing. Conversely, the Gateron Magnetic Jade, a Hall Effect switch, is designed to deliver a bright and clacky sound, appealing to users who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic experience. This switch is particularly noted for providing a superior typing experience, making it a top choice for enthusiasts looking to elevate their Wooting Hall Effect keyboard setup. While both switches cater to different auditory and tactile preferences, the decision ultimately hinges on individual taste; the Ink Black V2 for those who favor smoothness and warmth, and the Magnetic Jade for those seeking accentuated acoustics. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches, notable differences emerge between their top housings. The Ink Black V2 features a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, which contributes to a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. This blend is designed to create a satisfying thin and clacky sound that many users find appealing. In contrast, the Magnetic Jade utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness, which results in a sharper, clearer, and crisper acoustic signature. While both switches offer a higher-pitched sound, the distinct materials lend different tonal qualities, with the Ink Black V2 favoring a softer clack compared to the more resonant and brilliant sound of the Magnetic Jade.
The bottom housing materials also differ significantly between the two switches, shaping the overall sound and feel when typing. The Ink Black V2's bottom housing maintains the same proprietary INK blend as its top housing, reinforcing its pointed and high-pitched sound profile. This consistency leads to a more cohesive auditory experience throughout the switch. Conversely, the Magnetic Jade features a nylon bottom housing, a classic choice that yields a deeper, fuller sound due to nylon's softness, which dampens sound more than harder plastics. The contrasting bottom housings further illustrate how both switches can produce differing auditory experiences, particularly in terms of bottom-out sounds and tactile feedback.
Ultimately, the synthesis of sound profiles from the top and bottom housings plays a crucial role in shaping the unique characteristics of each switch. While the Gateron Ink Black V2 maintains a harmonious blend of a pointed sound profile across both housings, the Magnetic Jade merges a crisper top sound with a deeper bottom response. If users are seeking a sound profile that combines elements from both switches, they may find similar high-pitched results by prioritizing switch selection and keycap choices that emphasize clarity and resonance, regardless of the specific housing material.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, notable differences emerge. The Ink Black V2 has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy, while the Magnetic Jade features a notably lighter actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, placing it in the medium-light range. This means the Ink Black V2 requires a stronger push for both triggering a keystroke and fully depressing the switch, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Magnetic Jade’s lighter actuation force makes it easier to type quickly, which can be advantageous for extended use such as long work sessions or gaming marathons. Overall, the Gateron Ink Black V2 is the heavier option and is tailored for a firmer touch, whereas the Gateron Magnetic Jade is the lighter switch, suitable for those who favor ease of actuation.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference signifies that the Ink Black V2 provides a more substantial feel when pressed, appealing to those who prefer a deeper and more tactile experience. On the other hand, the shorter 3.5 mm travel of the Magnetic Jade caters to gamers and users seeking quicker response times, making it a more responsive choice. Ultimately, if you value a hearty depth and a more traditional travel feel, the Ink Black V2 would be preferable, whereas the Magnetic Jade is ideal for those who prioritize speed and rapid key activation.
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 Gateron Magnetic Jade comes in at $8.00 per 10 switches.
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 linear switch offers a unique acoustic profile characterized by a low-pitched, bassy tone, complemented by a slight chirp. This creates a deeper and richer sound experience during keystrokes, giving a pleasant audio feedback that can enhance the typing experience for many users. In contrast, the Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect switch is known for its bright and clacky sound, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback. While both switches provide engaging sound experiences, the Ink Black V2 leans towards a warmer, bass-oriented audio, while the Magnetic Jade aims for a more piercing and vibrant sound.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Black V2 excels with a mild and polished action. This means that it offers a soft and approachable typing experience, making it suitable for long hours of use without causing fatigue. The polished finish further enhances this feeling, allowing for smooth key travel that minimizes friction. On the other hand, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch's feel remains unspecified, meaning we don’t have concrete information on its tactile characteristics. Users seeking a specific typing experience may want to prioritize the Ink Black V2 for its refined approach.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch each bring distinct auditory and tactile experiences to the table. The Ink Black V2 stands out for its low-pitched, bassy sound and polished feel, making it a solid choice for those who value a smooth typing experience. Meanwhile, the Magnetic Jade emphasizes bright acoustics but lacks detailed information about its tactile feel. Those who appreciate a gentle yet refined typing sensation will likely find satisfaction in the Ink Black V2, while the Magnetic Jade's bright sound is designed for users looking for a more high-octane auditory profile. Ultimately, selecting the best switch will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a medium-heavy feel and appreciate a smoother, polished typing experience with a rich, low-pitched sound, the Ink Black V2 may be the right choice for you. This switch’s 70-gram actuation provides a satisfying resistance that many typists and gamers prefer, particularly if you're looking for that classic, bassy acoustic profile that gives a distinct character to each keystroke. On the other hand, if you're drawn to lighter switches and want something that shines in terms of fast actuation and bright acoustic feedback, the Magnetic Jade is likely the better fit. With a bottom-out force of 55 grams, it caters to those who enjoy a responsive typing experience coupled with a clacky sound perfect for enhancing your Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. Both switches have their unique strengths, so consider your preferences for weight, sound, and feel as you make your decision.
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