Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Outemu Cream Pink
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Cream Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Cream Pink both offer a linear typing experience. The Ink Black V2 is praised for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Cream Pink is a lesser-known option that doesn't have a specific standout feature but still provides a linear feel. While the Ink Black V2 is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Bassy', 'Chirpy', 'Mild', 'Polished', the Cream Pink doesn't fall into any specific categories. Both switches have their own unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences. 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
2.00 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 Pink both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The Ink Black V2 utilizes a proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing, known for its pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the Cream Pink features a nylon top and bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound and creating a duller, rounder sound. While both switches have distinct sound profiles, the Ink Black V2 will have a sharper and more pronounced sound compared to the Cream Pink's softer and more muted sound.
Additionally, the choice of housing material in these two switches can also impact the overall typing experience. The bottom housing of the switches plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. With the Gateron Ink Black V2's INK blend bottom housing, typists can expect a more pointed and high-pitched sound while the Cream Pink's nylon bottom housing will provide a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition. This difference in housing material can make a noticeable impact on the overall typing experience and feedback of each switch.
While the Gateron Ink Black V2 and Outemu Cream Pink differ in their housing materials, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience. Despite the differences in sound profile and material composition, typists can expect similar results in terms of overall key feel and performance. Whether preferring a sharper and clacky sound with the Ink Black V2 or a deeper and fuller sound with the Cream Pink, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, there are noticeable differences worth mentioning. The actuation force of the Ink Black V2 is 60 grams, while the Cream Pink is lighter at 50 grams. Both switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force, with the Ink Black V2 requiring 70 grams and the Cream Pink needing 65 grams. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Cream Pink due to its lower actuation force, making it easier to type for longer periods of time without fatigue. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 provides a slightly heavier actuation force for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for the desired typing feel and weight of the keys.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience a consistent travel distance. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users will get similar results in terms of key feel and response. The equal travel distance of these switches makes them both suitable options for those who prefer a consistent typing experience with a 4 mm travel distance.
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 Pink 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 and bassy characteristics, giving a deep and rich sound profile with a slight chirpiness to add a unique touch. On the other hand, information about the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch's sound profile is unavailable. Depending on the overall setup including the keyboard and keycaps used, the sound produced by the switches can vary.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is noted for its mild and polished qualities, offering a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing feel and reduced friction. Unfortunately, details on the feel of the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch are not provided. Both switches may provide similar results in terms of feel depending on personal preference and typing style.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch seems to offer a smooth downstroke, a rich clack sound, a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, as well as a mild and polished feel. While details on the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch are lacking, it is important to note that the overall typing experience with either switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to individual preferences in sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, you may want to go with the Ink Black V2 if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and enjoy a smooth downstroke with a rich clack sound. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and are looking for a unique switch that offers a different typing experience, the Cream Pink could be the better choice for you. Consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel when selecting the switch that will best suit your needs and enhance your overall typing experience. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what characteristics you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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