Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Haimu Neo White
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Haimu Neo White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Haimu Neo White mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches that offer a smooth typing experience. The Ink Black V2 is known for its low-pitched, bassy sound profile and polished feel, making it a popular choice among keyboard enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Neo White stands out for its medium weight and slightly reduced total travel, providing a unique typing feel with a smooth actuation thanks to the Ly stem. While both switches have their own strengths, such as the rich clack of the Ink Black V2 and the smooth keystrokes of the Neo White, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
58g
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
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
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Haimu Neo White, it is clear that they differ in terms of sound profile and stiffness. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Black V2 produces a thin and higher-pitched sound that is not overly sharp, resulting in a satisfying clacky feel. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Neo White creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting. While both provide a high-pitched sound, the materials diverge in their ability to absorb sound, with polycarbonate being stiffer than the INK blend.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the differences between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Haimu Neo White become more apparent. The INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Black V2 contributes to the switch's high-pitched and clacky sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience. Alternatively, the nylon bottom housing of the Neo White produces a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound profile that may be preferred by some typists for a more muted typing experience.
Overall, while the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Haimu Neo White offer distinct sound profiles and feels, both switches ultimately strive to provide a satisfying typing experience. Whether you prefer the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate found in the Neo White or the clacky, higher-pitched sound of the INK blend in the Ink Black V2, each switch offers a unique tactile experience that caters to different preferences. Despite their differences in housing materials, both switches are designed to enhance typing precision and comfort for users seeking a quality mechanical keyboard experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, we can see some differences. 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 Neo White has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 58 grams, making it a medium switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Neo White, as its bottom out force is slightly lower than the Ink Black V2. However, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Ink Black V2, with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches offer different typing experiences, catering to individual preferences for typing and gaming.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Haimu Neo White linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Neo White switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Ink Black V2 switch may suit those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. Both switches offer a different feel due to their travel distance, with the Neo White switch providing a slightly quicker key press compared to the Ink Black V2 switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Haimu Neo White comes in at $2.70 per 10 switches.
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, bassy, and slightly chirpy sound profile, offering a deep and rich typing experience. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White linear switch is described as having a more neutral sound, making it suitable for a wide range of users and settings. The choice between the two would ultimately depend on individual preferences for sound, with the Ink Black V2 offering a more distinctive and bass-heavy tone while the Neo White provides a more moderate and versatile sound.
In terms of feel, both the Gateron Ink Black V2 and Haimu Neo White linear switches are described as providing a mild and gentle typing experience. The Ink Black V2 switch is noted for its polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined key travel that reduces friction. Similarly, the Neo White switch offers a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Both switches fall within the safe and middle-ground zone in terms of feel, making them comfortable options for extended typing sessions.
Overall, when considering the subjective qualities of sound and feel, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch stands out for its unique low-pitched and bassy sound profile, as well as its polished and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White linear switch offers a more neutral sound and a mild typing feel that is suitable for a wide range of users and applications. While each switch has its own strengths, both are excellent options for those seeking a smooth and satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, but users can expect similar results in terms of overall quality and performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, consider your preferences for key feel and sound. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a more distinct typing experience with a rich clack sound, the Ink Black V2 may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smoother actuation with a neutral sound profile, the Neo White could be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer a unique typing experience, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what feels best for you.
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