Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are various factors to consider, including the type of feedback and sound you prefer. Two popular options in the market are the Gateron Ink Black V2, a linear switch, and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry, a tactile switch. The Gateron Ink Black V2 is widely adored by the community for its smooth downstroke and rich clack. Categorized as low-pitched, bassy, chirpy, mild, and polished, it offers a pleasing typing experience for those who enjoy linear switches. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry stands out for its sharp tactile bump, providing a satisfying typing feel. With a sound frequency slightly lower than average, it offers a unique experience categorized as snappy, buttery, low-pitched, textured, resonant, invigorating, and stiff. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry differ in terms of sound profile and overall feel. The Ink Black V2 features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a relatively high-pitched and clacky sound when keys are released. On the other hand, the Blueberry switches utilize a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound upon key release. This difference in sound profile contributes to a distinct typing experience, with the Ink Black V2 providing a sharper and more noticeable click compared to the Blueberry's softer and more subtle sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches use different materials. The Ink Black V2 employs its proprietary INK blend bottom housing, which contributes to the clacky sound profile that the switch is known for. Similarly, the Blueberry switches incorporate a POM bottom housing, which offers a deeper and more muted sound upon bottom-out. While the bottom housing mainly influences the sound and feel when pressing down a key, it also plays a role in creating a specific typing experience.
Despite their differences, both switches aim to provide a pleasing typing experience. The Ink Black V2 and the Blueberry switches offer unique qualities that cater to individual preferences. While the Ink Black V2's housing materials emphasize a pointed and clacky sound profile, the Blueberry switches focus on a deeper and more muted sound. It's important to consider personal preferences for key sound and tactile feedback when choosing between these switches, as they offer distinct typing experiences. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, both switches are designed to deliver satisfying keystrokes and a pleasant user experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, some notable differences arise. The Ink Black V2 requires a slightly higher actuation force of 60 grams, while the Blueberry requires 55 grams to trigger a keystroke. Both switches offer a satisfying push feel when typing, but the Blueberry exerts a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams compared to the Ink Black V2's 70 grams. This makes the Blueberry switch more suitable for those seeking a more substantial typing experience with a harder bottom out factor. However, for individuals who prefer a lighter switch to type for extended periods or engage in prolonged gaming sessions, the Ink Black V2 would be a more preferable option. Overall, both switches provide solid results; it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience one desires.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key, you will feel the same 4 mm of travel for both switches. Therefore, you can expect to get similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom.
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 Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Blueberry for $6.25.
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
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is best known for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, providing a satisfying typing experience. In terms of sound, the Ink Black V2 is low-pitched and bassy, offering a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. It also has a unique chirpy characteristic that sets it apart from other switches. As for feel, the Ink Black V2 is described as mild and polished, providing a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch is known for its sharp tactile bump, making it suitable for those who prefer a more noticeable feedback while typing. The sound produced by the Blueberry switches is low-pitched and resonant, characterized by a clean and sharp sound profile. In terms of feel, the Blueberry switch is described as snappy, buttery, and invigorating. It offers a super responsive and lively typing experience, with a smooth and fluid keystroke.
Comparing the two switches, the Ink Black V2 has a smoother and quieter sound profile, while the Blueberry switch has a more pronounced and immersive sound. In terms of feel, the Ink Black V2 offers a milder and polished typing experience, while the Blueberry switch provides a snappy, buttery, and invigorating feel. Overall, both switches have their unique characteristics and it ultimately depends on individual preferences. If you enjoy a smoother linear typing experience, the Ink Black V2 would be a suitable choice. If you prefer a more tactile and responsive typing experience, the Blueberry switch would be a good option.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a classic linear switch with a smooth downstroke and a rich clack, the Gateron Ink Black V2 would be a great choice for you. With a bottom out force of 70 grams, it offers a medium-heavy typing experience. The Ink Black V2 also provides a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a deeper and mellower tone. Additionally, it has a mild and polished feel, offering a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you love a sharp tactile bump and a lower-than-average sound frequency, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry would be a suitable option. With an 80-gram bottom out force, it provides a heavier typing feel. The Blueberry switch offers a low-pitched and resonant sound profile, characterized by a clean and sharp auditory experience. It also has a variety of feel descriptors, including snappy, buttery, textured, invigorating, and stiff, providing different options for those who prefer a more responsive and immersive typing sensation.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry comes down to personal preference. You should consider factors such as typing feel, typing sound, and bottom out force to determine which switch aligns with your preferences.
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