Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Outemu Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Black V2, a linear switch, to the Outemu Brown, a tactile switch, it's important to consider the differences in their feel and sound. The Ink Black V2 is beloved for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, offering a low-pitched and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown provides a tactile bump for feedback without the audible click, appealing to those who prefer a quieter typing experience. While the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference, understanding the distinct qualities of each switch can help you make an informed decision. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Brown switches, one key difference is in the top housing. The Ink Black V2 features a proprietary INK blend top housing that creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, described as clacky. On the other hand, the Brown switch utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a clearer and more resonant sound, making it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the differences continue between the Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Brown switches. The Ink Black V2 boasts a proprietary INK blend bottom housing, which also contributes to the pointed and high-pitched sound profile associated with this switch. In contrast, the Brown switch utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the crisper sound produced by the Ink Black V2.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Brown switches differ, they each play an important role in the overall sound profile of the switch. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, with the nylon bottom housing of the Brown switch creating a deeper sound compared to the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Black V2. Conversely, the top housing material has more influence on the sound produced when a key is released, with the polycarbonate top housing of the Brown switch contributing to a sharper sound profile compared to the clacky sound of the INK blend top housing in the Ink Black V2.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Brown tactile switch. The Ink Black V2 requires 60 grams of force to actuate and 70 grams to bottom out, while the Brown requires 53 grams to actuate and 65 grams to bottom out. Both switches fall within the medium-heavy range of weight, providing a satisfying and substantial typing experience. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Outemu Brown for longer typing sessions, while others may appreciate the heavier feel of the Ink Black V2 for a more pronounced keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent distance from top to bottom. Despite having different switch types - linear and tactile - the travel distance remains unchanged. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of keypress depth, whether they choose the Gateron Ink Black V2 or the Outemu Brown. As a result, the overall feel and responsiveness of the switches will be similar, providing a familiar feel regardless of the switch chosen.
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 Brown 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is known for its low-pitched, bassy, and slightly chirpy sound profile, offering a rich and deep typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown tactile switch's sound characteristics are unknown. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the type of keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Black V2 switch is described as providing a mild and polished typing experience. The mild characteristics of this switch offer a gentle and approachable typing feel, while the polished finish ensures smooth and refined key presses with reduced friction. Conversely, information about the tactile feel of the Outemu Brown switch is missing, leaving a gap in understanding its tactile feedback and overall typing experience.
Taking into consideration the available information, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch stands out for its smooth downstroke, rich clack sound, mild feel, and polished finish, making it a popular choice among keyboard enthusiasts. On the other hand, the specifics of the Outemu Brown tactile switch remain unknown, leaving room for further exploration to determine its sound and feel characteristics. For those looking for a linear switch with a low-pitched sound and a polished typing experience, the Gateron Ink Black V2 would be a reliable option to consider.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, you should consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 70 grams and enjoy a smooth downstroke with a rich clack sound, then the Ink Black V2 may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force of 65 grams and appreciate a mild and polished typing experience, then the Outemu Brown may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific characteristics that align with your typing style and sound preferences.
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