Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Cherry MX Speed Silver mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences and needs. The Gateron Ink Black V2 is renowned for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, making it a favorite within the community for its low-pitched and polished feel. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is celebrated for its rapid response and linear action, ideal for gamers seeking maximum speed with low spring resistance. While the Ink Black V2 may appeal to those looking for a classic linear switch experience, the Speed Silver stands out for its lightning-fast triggers tailored for competitive gaming. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
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 Cherry MX Speed Silver, we can see that the Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend top and bottom housings are characterized by a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. This results in a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the MX Speed Silver's nylon top and bottom housings produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. While both switches have different sound profiles, they both offer unique experiences based on their housing materials.
Despite the differences in sound profile created by their respective housing materials, both the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Cherry MX Speed Silver offer a high-quality typing experience. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Black V2 contributes to its distinctive clacky sound, while the nylon top housing of the MX Speed Silver produces a deeper and fuller sound. However, the bottom housing of each switch plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel when typing, with the softer nylon bottom housing of the MX Speed Silver absorbing more sound than the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Black V2.
While the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Cherry MX Speed Silver may have different housing materials that result in varying sound profiles, they ultimately offer similar typing experiences. Both switches provide a satisfying feel and sound when pressed, with the INK blend top housing of the Ink Black V2 emphasizing a thinner and higher-pitched sound compared to the fuller sound produced by the nylon top housing of the MX Speed Silver. Despite these differences, both switches showcase the impact that housing materials can have on the overall typing experience, highlighting the importance of considering the materials used in switch construction.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a higher actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Cherry MX Speed Silver's 30 grams, making the MX Speed Silver lighter in this aspect. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gateron switch requires 70 grams while the Cherry MX Speed Silver's bottom out force is unknown. This makes the Gateron Ink Black V2 slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force. This means that the Gateron switch might provide a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver could be preferred for longer typing sessions due to its lighter actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Ink Black V2 has a slightly longer travel distance, making it more suitable for those who prefer a deeper key press experience. On the other hand, the MX Speed Silver offers a shorter travel distance, which lends itself well to faster response times, making it a popular choice among gamers. Both switches provide a unique feel due to their travel distances, with the Ink Black V2 offering a more traditional depth compared to the shallower MX Speed Silver. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing 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 Cherry MX Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch provides a low-pitched and bassy sound profile with a slight chirp, offering a deep and rich experience during key presses. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch delivers a thocky and low-pitched sound, producing a satisfying deep tone when pressed and released. While both switches share a low-pitched sound characteristic, the Ink Black V2 leans towards a bass-heavy profile with a hint of chirp, whereas the MX Speed Silver provides a thocky and rich sound experience.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, providing a gentle and refined feel that is approachable to most users. The smooth and polished finish of the switch results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch is described as textured, potentially offering a more tactile feel with noticeable friction when pressed. This texture may be preferred by some users seeking a different typing experience compared to the smoother feel of the Ink Black V2.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities. While the Ink Black V2 provides a low-pitched, bassy sound with a mild and polished feel, the MX Speed Silver delivers a thocky sound with a textured feel. Choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different user preferences, so selecting the best option will ultimately come down to personal taste and desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switches, consider your preferences and needs. Opt for the Gateron Ink Black V2 if you value a medium-heavy bottom out force, smooth downstroke, low-pitched and bassy sound profile, and a mild and polished typing experience. This switch is popular among enthusiasts for its classic linear feel and rich clack. On the other hand, choose the Cherry MX Speed Silver if you prioritize a lightning-fast response time, a bottom out force that is unknown, instant triggering for gaming purposes, a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, and a textured typing experience. This switch is designed for speed and quick actions, making it ideal for competitive gaming where milliseconds matter. Ultimately, your decision should align with your typing style, gaming needs, and sound and feel preferences.
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