Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Durock Mamba
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Durock Mamba switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Durock Mamba. Both switches fall under the linear switch category, known for their smooth keystrokes and lack of tactile feedback. The Ink Black V2 is a tried and true favorite among the mechanical keyboard community, offering a smooth downstroke and a satisfying clack sound. It is characterized by a low-pitched, bassy, chirpy, mild, and polished feel. On the other hand, the Mamba switch pays tribute to Kobe Bryant and provides an equally enjoyable typing experience with its gliding sensation and rich, creamy auditory experience. Categorized as neutral, mild, thocky, and polished, the Mamba switch offers a different blend of characteristics. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
Ly
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Durock Mamba have different housing materials, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The Ink Black V2 features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which is known for its pointed and higher-pitched sound. It is described as clacky but not overly sharp. In contrast, the Mamba utilizes a polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing, providing a pleasant and slightly brighter sound. Both switches offer unique sound profiles, but the Ink Black V2 tends to be more clacky while the Mamba leans towards a brighter tone.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, the Ink Black V2 once again uses the proprietary INK blend, resulting in a pointed and higher-pitched sound. This clacky sound is often satisfying to users. On the other hand, the Mamba employs a POM bottom housing, offering a deeper and relatively more muted sound. While the Ink Black V2 provides a thin and higher-pitched sound, the Mamba's POM housing contributes to a deeper and less pronounced tone.
Despite the differences between the top and bottom housing materials, the impact they have on the switch's sound and feel is noticeable. When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing come into play, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, when releasing a key, it is the top housing that has a greater impact on the resulting sound. Therefore, while the housing materials differ, the overall experience of using the switches may yield similar results in terms of their impact on sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, we can observe some similarities and differences. The actuation force of the Ink Black V2 is 60 grams, while the Mamba's actuation force is unavailable. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that, in terms of bottoming out, the two switches will yield similar results.
In terms of weight, the Ink Black V2 is considered slightly heavier with its bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the weight of the Mamba remains unknown, making it difficult to determine whether it is lighter or heavier than the Ink Black V2.
Considering the preferences of individuals, those who prefer a lighter typing experience for prolonged periods of use may lean towards the Ink Black V2, as its actuation force is 60 grams and falls within the medium range. However, for individuals seeking a more solid and forceful keystroke, the Mamba could be a suitable option despite its unavailable actuation force. Ultimately, both switches offer different weight preferences, allowing users to choose based on their desired typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Durock Mamba linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Ink Black V2 falls into the more traditional range with its 4.0 mm travel distance, while the Mamba offers a slightly shallower experience at 3.5 mm. Gamers, in particular, often prefer switches with shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. So, if you value responsiveness, the Mamba's shorter travel distance may be the better choice for you. However, it's important to note that some people find short travel distances to feel too abrupt, so if you prefer a switch with a more substantial feeling, the Ink Black V2's longer travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Mamba has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mamba for $5.17.
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 offers a low-pitched and bassy profile. These characteristics give the switch a more mellow and rich tone during key presses. Additionally, the Ink Black V2 is described as having a unique chirpy aspect, which adds a slight squeak to its acoustic signature.
On the other hand, the Durock Mamba linear switch provides a neutral sound profile. It is neither too high-pitched nor too low-pitched, making it suitable for various typing preferences and environments. The Mamba switch is also known for its thocky characteristic, which produces a deep and satisfying sound reminiscent of a "thud" or a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released.
Moving on to the feel, both the Ink Black V2 and the Mamba switches are described as offering a mild typing experience. This means that they provide a gentle and approachable feel without any overpowering characteristics. Additionally, both switches have a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. The reduced friction and smooth key travel contribute to a sleek typing sensation.
Considering all the available information, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Durock Mamba linear switches have different subjective qualities in terms of sound. The Ink Black V2 offers a low-pitched, bassy, and chirpy sound profile, while the Mamba provides a neutral sound with a thocky characteristic. However, both switches share similar qualities in terms of feel, as they offer a mild and polished typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Therefore, if you are looking for a rich and mellow sound, the Ink Black V2 would be a suitable choice, whereas if you prefer a neutral sound with a deep and satisfying tone, the Mamba switch would be a better option.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a smooth downstroke and a rich clack, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is a great choice. It offers a low-pitched, bassy, and sometimes chirpy sound profile, giving you a unique auditory experience. Additionally, the Ink Black V2 provides a mild and polished feel, ensuring a gentle and sleek typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium switch with a gliding typing sensation and a rich and creamy auditory experience, the Durock Mamba linear switch is an excellent option. It has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes, and produces a thocky sound when pressed. Moreover, the Mamba offers the same mild and polished feel as the Ink Black V2, providing a comfortable typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Durock Mamba comes down to your personal preferences. If you prioritize a heavier switch with a distinct sound profile and a smooth typing feel, the Ink Black V2 is a great choice. However, if you prefer a medium switch with a gliding typing sensation and a versatile sound profile, the Mamba is a suitable option. Consider these factors when making your decision to ensure you find the perfect switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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