Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Cream Blue mechanical keyboard switches, it all comes down to your personal preference. The Ink Black V2 is a linear switch that is highly regarded for its smooth downstroke and rich clack sound. It is known for its low-pitched, bassy, chirpy, mild, and polished characteristics. On the other hand, the Cream Blue is a clicky switch that offers a unique typing experience with a satisfying click sound. While the Cream Blue does not have a specific standout feature, it offers a different tactile feel compared to the smoothness of the Ink Black V2. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to what type of typing experience you prefer. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Black V2 and Outemu Cream Blue switches both have unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The Ink Black V2 features a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, giving it a clacky and satisfying feel. On the other hand, the Cream Blue utilizes a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. While both switches offer a tactile experience, the materials used in the housing contribute to their distinct sound characteristics.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and Outemu Cream Blue switches again feature different materials that impact the overall sound and feel of the switches. The proprietary INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Black V2 mirrors the top housing, creating a consistent high-pitched sound profile. Conversely, the Cream Blue's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, further adding to their unique typing experience.
While the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and Outemu Cream Blue switches differ, they both offer distinctive sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The top housing of the switches influences the sound when pressing down on a key, while the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference for sound and feel, with the INK blend of the Ink Black V2 offering a high-pitched and clacky sound, and the nylon material of the Cream Blue providing a deeper and fuller sound experience. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, albeit with different sound characteristics.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the Cream Blue is the lighter option. The Cream Blue has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Ink Black V2 has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it the heavier of the two. Both switches fall within the medium-heavy category, providing a satisfying typing experience for users who prefer a bit of resistance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference, with the Cream Blue offering a lighter touch for extended typing sessions and the Ink Black V2 providing a more substantial feel for those who prefer a heavier keystroke. With similar weights and forces in the medium-heavy range, users can expect a comparable typing experience from both switches.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance between the two switches, they both offer the same level of key travel from the top to the bottom. This means that whether you choose the Gateron Ink Black V2 or the Outemu Cream Blue, you can expect a similar experience in terms of key travel distance. This is beneficial for users who prefer a consistent typing feel across different switches.
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 Cream Blue 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 is known for its low-pitched and bassy tones, offering a more mellow and rich sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch does not have any specific sound descriptors provided, suggesting that its sound characteristics may not be as defined or well-known. However, both switches can produce satisfying sound profiles depending on the other components in your setup, such as the keyboard housing and keycaps.
Regarding feel, the Gateron Ink Black V2 is described as providing a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle and smooth keypress with reduced friction and a refined finish. Meanwhile, there are no specific feel descriptors provided for the Outemu Cream Blue switch. This lack of information may indicate that the feel of the Cream Blue switch is less characterized or defined compared to the Ink Black V2. However, it is worth noting that both switches can offer a pleasant typing experience, with the Cream Blue likely providing a distinct clicky feel due to its clicky switch type.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is renowned for its smooth downstroke and rich clack sound, as well as its mild and polished feel, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch may offer a unique clicky experience without specific sound or feel descriptors. Both switches have their own strengths and can provide a satisfying typing experience, although the specific differences in sound and feel between the two may vary. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, consider the specific qualities of each switch. If you are looking for a classic linear switch with a smooth downstroke and rich clack, the Ink Black V2 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a lower bottom out force and a distinctive sound profile, the Cream Blue could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound. Choose the switch that best aligns with your desired typing experience.
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