Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Melodic mechanical keyboard switches, you have two distinct options to consider. The Ink Black V2 is a linear switch loved for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Melodic is a clicky switch that brings a new level of smoothness and tactility to the classic clicky sound. The decision between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a linear switch with a low-pitched and mild feel, the Ink Black V2 may be the way to go. Conversely, if you enjoy the satisfying clicky sound and crunchy feedback of a clicky switch like the Melodic, then that may be the better choice for you. 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
4.00 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Melodic, we see that the top housings differ significantly. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Black V2 provides a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound that is described as clacky, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Melodic creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the Melodic offers a clear and resonant sound due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. While both top housings produce a satisfying sound, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference for either a slightly softer clack or a sharper, crisper sound.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of the switches also exhibit distinct characteristics. The INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Black V2 contributes to its pointed and high-pitched sound profile, adding to the overall typing experience. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the Melodic offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. The difference in sound produced by the bottom housings highlights the importance of material choice in creating the desired typing feel and sound quality of a switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Melodic will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience. While the Ink Black V2's INK blend top housing may offer a slightly softer clack compared to the Melodic's polycarbonate top housing, the nylon bottom housing of the Melodic provides a deeper and fuller sound than the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Black V2. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can find the perfect match for their typing needs.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a higher actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Gateron Melodic clicky switch which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Gateron Melodic switch has a slightly lower bottom out force of 60 grams compared to the Ink Black V2's 70 grams. The difference in actuation force may result in a slightly lighter touch required for typing on the Melodic switch, while the higher bottom out force of the Ink Black V2 may provide a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer a medium weight feel, with the Melodic potentially being slightly lighter due to the lower bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. The similarity in travel distance ensures that users will get consistent results when typing or gaming with either switch. This makes it easier for users to switch between keyboards featuring these switches without having to adjust to different travel distances. So, whether you prefer the linear feel of the Ink Black V2 or the audible feedback of the Melodic clicky switch, you can expect a similar travel experience with either option.
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 Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 is known for its low-pitched and bassy characteristics, offering a mellow and rich sound profile with a unique chirpy quality. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch is described as resonant and crunchy, providing a higher-pitched and clean sound with a satisfying crunch reminiscent of autumn leaves. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Ink Black V2 linear switch is reported to provide a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle and approachable feel with smooth key travel thanks to potential factory lubing. In contrast, the Melodic clicky switch is described as buttery and invigorating, delivering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with pronounced feedback and a reactive feel. Both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing sensation, but the Melodic may offer a more dynamic and tactile experience compared to the Ink Black V2.
Overall, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is best known for its smooth downstroke and rich clack sound, coupled with a gentle and refined typing feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch stands out for its classic clicky sound and tactile feedback, enhanced by advancements like factory lubing and dual-railed stems. Whether you prefer a linear switch with a bassy sound and polished feel or a clicky switch with a resonant sound and invigorating feel, both options offer unique qualities for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch or the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, you should take into account your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a smooth downstroke and rich clack with a medium-heavy bottom out force, then the Ink Black V2 is the switch for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy the classic clicky sound and tactile feedback with a medium bottom out force, then the Melodic switch is worth considering. Additionally, if you prefer a low-pitched, bassy, and chirpy sound with a mild and polished feel, the Ink Black V2 may be the better choice. However, if you prefer a resonant, crunchy sound with a buttery and invigorating feel, then the Melodic switch might be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference for sound and feel during typing.
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