Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Outemu Black
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Black mechanical keyboard switches, it is important to note that both are linear switches offering a smooth typing experience. The Gateron Ink Black V2 is renowned for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, making it a popular choice among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Outemu Black is a more budget-friendly option with less distinctive characteristics. While the Gateron switch is praised for its low-pitched, bassy, and polished feel, the Outemu switch lacks any standout features. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Black V2 and Outemu Black switches both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Ink Black V2 utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a pointed and high-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. In contrast, the Outemu Black features a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. While both switches have top housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profile, the Ink Black V2's INK blend offers a slightly different sound compared to the polycarbonate used in the Outemu Black.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the differences between the two switches become more apparent. The Gateron Ink Black V2's INK blend bottom housing continues the pointed and high-pitched sound profile of the switch, emphasizing a clacky typing experience. In comparison, the Outemu Black utilizes a nylon bottom housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. The nylon material in the Outemu Black absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the Gateron Ink Black V2.
Overall, while the top housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and Outemu Black may have slightly different characteristics, both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials. The Ink Black V2's INK blend provides a clacky and high-pitched sound, while the Outemu Black's polycarbonate and nylon housing materials offer sharper and fuller sound profiles, respectively. Whether you prefer a pointed and high-pitched sound or a deeper and fuller typing experience, both switches provide distinct options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, it is evident that the Gateron switch is lighter overall. The Gateron Ink Black V2 has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, while the Outemu Black has an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams. This makes the Gateron switch more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch during typing or gaming sessions, allowing for longer periods of use without fatigue. In contrast, the Outemu switch provides a heavier and more substantial typing experience, appealing to users who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer a different tactile experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individual preferences for typing and gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's desired typing feel and force preference.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Black linear switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When using either switch, you can expect a consistent key press feel and travel distance, resulting in similar typing experiences. This means that whether you choose the Gateron Ink Black V2 or the Outemu Black switch, you can enjoy a smooth linear key press with the same travel distance, providing a consistent feel across both switches. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to other factors such as actuation force or sound profile.
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 Outemu Black comes in at $3.10 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 offers a low-pitched and bassy tone during key presses, providing a mellow and rich sound profile with a unique chirpy characteristic. On the other hand, the Outemu Black linear switch's sound qualities are unknown. Keep in mind that the actual sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Black V2 switch is described as providing a mild and polished typing experience. This means that users can expect a gentle typing feel with smooth key travel and reduced friction, resulting in a refined and sleek typing experience. Unfortunately, there is no information available about the specific feel of the Outemu Black linear switch.
Overall, if both the sound and feel qualities of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and Outemu Black linear switches are similar, users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of smoothness, acoustic profile, and overall satisfaction. For those looking for a classic linear switch with a smooth downstroke and rich clack, the Gateron Ink Black V2 may be the preferred choice based on the available information.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between Gateron Ink Black V2 and Outemu Black linear switches, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, a smooth downstroke, and a low-pitched, bassy sound profile, then the Ink Black V2 may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force of 82 grams, and don't mind the lack of specific sound and feel descriptions, the Outemu Black may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and typing experience, so choose the switch that aligns best with what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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