Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. PH Studio Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the PH Studio Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a new mechanical keyboard switch, you may come across the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the PH Studio Milk Tea, both linear switches with their own unique characteristics. The Ink Black V2 is praised for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, offering a low-pitched and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch stands out for its high-pitched yet muted sound, providing a balance between presence and subtlety. With an accessible bottom-out force and a stem material designed for ease of typing, the Milk Tea switch is ideal for extended typing sessions. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
37.5g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Black V2 and the PH Studio Milk Tea both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profile. The Ink Black V2 features a proprietary INK blend top housing, known for its pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. In contrast, the Milk Tea boasts a POM top housing that creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, the difference in sound between the two is mainly attributed to their top housing materials.
In terms of bottom housing, the Gateron Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend provides a similar high-pitched and clacky sound profile as its top housing. On the other hand, the Milk Tea's POM bottom housing contributes to a deeper and more muted sound when compared to its top housing. These differences in bottom housing materials further highlight the unique sound profiles of each switch. While the bottom housing may not be as immediately noticeable as the top housing, it still plays a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the PH Studio Milk Tea each offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a high-pitched and clacky sound or a deeper and more muted tone, both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience. While the specific qualities of each housing material may differ, the overall typing experience and feel of the switches are still comparable, providing users with a variety of options to choose from based on their sound preferences. Both switches showcase how different housing materials can influence the sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, it is evident that there is a significant difference in weight between the two. The Ink Black V2 has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch has a lighter actuation force of 37.5 grams and a bottom out force of 43.5 grams, making it a much lighter option. This contrast in weight allows users to choose based on their preference, whether they enjoy a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time or prefer a heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal typing preferences and the desired level of force required for a satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a traditional distance. On the other hand, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it slightly shorter. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Milk Tea for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more pronounced keypress may opt for the longer travel distance of the Ink Black V2. Both switches provide a smooth linear feel, but the Ink Black V2 offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Milk Tea. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 PH Studio Milk Tea has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milk Tea for $4.00.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is known for its low-pitched and bassy characteristics, providing a deep and rich tone during key presses. In contrast, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch stands out for its high-pitched, clacky sound profile that is sharp and percussive. The Milk Tea switch also offers a marbly and resonant quality, creating a clean and sharp auditory experience. Depending on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard, users can choose between the mellow richness of the Ink Black V2 or the bright and sharp tones of the Milk Tea.
Moving on to feel, both the Ink Black V2 and the Milk Tea switches are noted for their polished finish, which contributes to a smooth and refined typing experience. The Ink Black V2 is described as mild, offering a gentle typing feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch is also referred to as silky, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Whether users prefer a mild and polished feel or a silkier typing sensation, both switches deliver on the promise of a refined and comfortable typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switches each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Ink Black V2 provides a low-pitched and bassy sound with a mild and polished typing feel, the Milk Tea switch delivers a high-pitched and clacky sound profile along with a silky smooth typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, as well as the desired typing experience for prolonged use. Both switches offer quality and performance that will satisfy the needs of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking a tailored typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch or the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, you should take into account your preferences for bottom-out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force and a smooth downstroke with a rich clack sound, the Ink Black V2 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force, a high-pitched and clacky sound, as well as a polished and silky typing experience, the Milk Tea switch could be more suitable for your typing needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so be sure to consider how these factors align with your own preferences before making a decision.
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