Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Durock Medium Tactile

Overview

Introducing two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Durock Medium Tactile. The Ink Black V2 is a beloved linear switch that has stood the test of time in the mechanical keyboard community. Renowned for its smooth downstroke and satisfying clack, this switch provides a delightful typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile offers a unique flavor of tactility crafted by Durock. With a pronounced yet balanced tactility and a jelly-like sound signature, this switch brings a different tactile sensation to your keystrokes. Both switches have their own distinct characteristics, making them suitable for different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Black V2 Linear

Durock Medium Tactile Tactile

$7.50

$7.24 per 10

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Durock Medium Tactile differ significantly. The Ink Black V2 features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which creates a pointed, high-pitched, and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Medium Tactile utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials offer a satisfying and thin sound, the polycarbonate top housing of the Medium Tactile is particularly advantageous for those planning to incorporate RGB lighting due to its translucency. Therefore, users can expect a distinctive sound and aesthetically pleasing visual effects with the Medium Tactile.

In terms of bottom housing, the Gateron Ink Black V2 employs its proprietary INK blend. This bottom housing contributes to the switch's pointed and high-pitched sound profile, complementing the characteristics of the top housing. Conversely, the Durock Medium Tactile incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which offers a different acoustic experience. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the Ink Black V2. Consequently, users can choose between the sharper and crisper sound of the Ink Black V2's bottom housing or the deeper and fuller sound of the Medium Tactile's nylon bottom housing.

When it comes to the overall impact on the typing experience, the bottom and top housings play distinct roles. The bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. Therefore, the choice between the proprietary INK blend and the nylon bottom housing will significantly affect the tactile feedback experienced during typing. Conversely, the top housing has a more prominent impact on the sound when releasing a key. Both the INK blend and the polycarbonate top housing create satisfying thin and higher-pitched sounds, albeit with their own nuances. Ultimately, the selection of housing materials for each switch produces unique auditory and tactile sensations during typing, allowing users to tailor their preference based on sound profile and feedback.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch, we can observe some similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the Ink Black V2 requires 60 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the actuation force of the Medium Tactile is not specified. However, it is worth noting that the actuation force is generally lighter than the bottom out force, so even if the Medium Tactile has a slightly higher actuation force, it may still provide a similar typing experience to the Ink Black V2. Moving on to bottom out force, the Ink Black V2 requires 70 grams of force to fully press down, while the Medium Tactile requires 65 grams. Here, we can see that the Medium Tactile is slightly lighter in terms of bottom out force.

When considering weight preferences, those who prefer lighter switches may find the Ink Black V2 more suitable for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions where fatigue can be an issue. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Medium Tactile switch, as its slightly heavier bottom out force can provide a more satisfying tactile feedback. Overall, while the actuation force of the Medium Tactile is unknown, both switches can offer a medium-heavy typing experience, with the Ink Black V2 being slightly heavier in terms of both actuation and bottom out force.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have an equal travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, the user will experience the same distance traveled from top to bottom. Therefore, the results obtained in terms of travel distance will be similar regardless of which switch is chosen.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is best described as low-pitched, bassy, and somewhat chirpy. These switches offer a deeper, mellow tone with a rich sound profile during key presses. The slight chirp adds a unique acoustic signature that sets them apart. On the other hand, there is no specific information available about the sound of the Durock Medium Tactile switch. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, achieving a similar sound to the Ink Black V2 may be possible with the Medium Tactile switch, but the exact characteristics are unknown.

When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Black V2 is described as having a mild and polished typing experience. These switches offer a gentle and approachable feel that falls within a safe middle ground. The smooth and refined finish, either due to materials used or factory lubing, ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is described as accented, stepped, mild, and polished. This means that it provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. The stepped feel implies a more moderate tactile experience compared to switches with a stronger bump. Like the Ink Black V2, the Medium Tactile switch is also polished, resulting in a sleek and smooth typing experience.

Overall, both switches have their unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Gateron Ink Black V2 offers a low-pitched, bassy sound with a mild and polished typing experience. Conversely, information about the specific sound of the Durock Medium Tactile switch is not available, but it is known to provide a medium level of tactility along with a polished feel. While it is difficult to make a direct comparison without concrete information about the sound of the Medium Tactile switch, it is likely that the similar mild and polished qualities could result in a comparable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing feel and sound profile.

Conclusion

In closing, when considering which switch to choose between the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch, there are a few factors to consider.

If you prioritize a smooth downstroke and rich clack, the Ink Black V2 would be an excellent choice. It offers a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams and provides a pleasant typing experience. The sound profile of the Ink Black V2 can be described as low-pitched, bassy, and even slightly chirpy, adding a unique acoustic signature to your typing experience. Additionally, the Ink Black V2 is considered a polished switch, ensuring a smooth and refined finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel.

On the other hand, if you prefer a balanced tactility with a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Medium Tactile is worth considering. It also has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a similar typing experience in terms of force. The sound profile of the Durock Medium Tactile is not specified, but it certainly offers a unique jelly-like sound. In terms of feel, the Medium Tactile is both accented and stepped, meaning it provides a prominent yet mild tactility, allowing you to feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel during each keystroke.

Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Durock Medium Tactile will depend on your personal preferences. If you value a smooth linear feel with a polished finish and unique sound characteristics, the Ink Black V2 is an excellent option. On the other hand, if you prefer a balanced tactility with a jelly-like sound and a more accented and stepped feel, the Durock Medium Tactile may be the switch for you. Consider your typing preferences, desired sound profile, and overall typing experience when making your decision.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Black V2 Linear

$7.50

$7.24 per 10

Learn more

Durock Medium Tactile Tactile

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn more