Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Cherry Nixie are both popular options worth considering. The Gateron Ink Black V2 is a classic linear switch known for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, offering a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie is revered for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, blending tradition with modern innovation with updated materials and springs. While the Gateron Ink Black V2 is praised for its low-pitched, bassy sound profile, the Cherry Nixie is known for its textured and thocky feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on 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
63.5g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Cherry Nixie switches both offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend top housing produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, resulting in a satisfying clacky feel. In contrast, the Nixie's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. While the Ink Black V2's top housing is known for its distinct clackiness, the Nixie's nylon top housing offers a more muffled and rounded sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Gateron Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend continues to provide a pointed and high-pitched sound profile. This adds to the overall clacky feel of the switch when bottoming out. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder sound upon bottoming out. The difference in materials used for the bottom housing contributes to the tactile feedback and sound experience of each switch when pressed.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Cherry Nixie switches offer contrasting sound profiles, the overall typing experience may be similar due to the similar design aspects of both switches. Both switches provide a unique tactile feedback and sound profile that can cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a clacky sound profile with the Ink Black V2 or a deeper, fuller sound with the Nixie, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their distinct housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it can be seen that the Ink Black V2 has a lighter actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Nixie's slightly heavier 63.5 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ink Black V2 has a lower force of 70 grams while the Nixie requires a heavier 80 grams for bottoming out. This means that the Nixie switch provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Ink Black V2, which allows for longer typing periods without fatigue. In this case, both the actuation force and bottom out force play a role in determining the overall typing experience, and users may opt for the switch that aligns with their preference for force feedback.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch is identical, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same level of travel distance. This makes them suitable options for those who prefer a consistent and standard key press experience. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches eliminates the need for users to choose based on this particular factor, as they can expect similar results from 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 Cherry Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.19.
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 best described as having a low-pitched and bassy sound profile with a hint of chirpiness, providing a satisfying and unique auditory experience during key presses. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound, delivering a deep and rich tone that many users find satisfying. Depending on personal preference, some users may prefer the mellow and bass-heavy sound of the Ink Black V2, while others may gravitate towards the deep and satisfying thockiness of the Nixie.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is characterized by its mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle and approachable feel with smooth key travel. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is known for its textured typing experience, which may provide a bit more friction compared to the smoother feel of the Ink Black V2. Users who prefer a polished and refined typing experience may lean towards the Ink Black V2, while those who enjoy a bit of texture in their switches may appreciate the tactile feel of the Nixie.
Overall, both the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. While the Ink Black V2 provides a smooth downstroke and rich clack sound with a mild and polished feel, the Nixie delivers a substantial heft with a thocky sound and textured typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. If similar results are preferred, both switches can deliver a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, you should consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a smoother downstroke with a medium-heavy bottom out force, along with a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, then the Ink Black V2 may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a heavier bottom out force and a textured, thocky sound profile, the Cherry Nixie could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound characteristics.
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