Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Blue offer distinct typing experiences. The Ink Black V2 is a popular linear switch known for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, making it a favorite among enthusiasts for its low-pitched and mild feel. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue switch boasts a clicky feedback without a specific standout feature in terms of sound profile or feel. While the Ink Black V2 is ideal for those looking for a polished and bassy typing experience, the Dustproof Blue switch may appeal to users seeking a traditional clicky switch. 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
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 the Outemu Dustproof Blue both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches. The Ink Black V2 features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which provides a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. In contrast, the Dustproof Blue utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials offer a similar overall sound profile, the use of polycarbonate in the Dustproof Blue switch housing may provide a more resonant and clear sound due to its stiffer properties.
When it comes to the bottom housings, the differences between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Blue become more apparent. The Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend bottom housing contributes to a pointed and high-pitched sound profile, similar to its top housing. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer properties that absorb more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound profile of the polycarbonate top housing in the Dustproof Blue.
In terms of overall typing experience, the choice of housing materials in switches can significantly impact the sound and feel of key presses. While the top housing material plays a more significant role in the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. Regardless of the differences in housing materials between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Blue, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in terms of sound profile and typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and what type of typing experience the user is looking for.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch both fall into the medium-heavy category when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces. The Ink Black V2 requires a slightly higher actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Dustproof Blue's 50 grams, while both have a bottom out force of 70 grams and 65 grams respectively. The difference in actuation force may result in a slightly lighter typing experience with the Dustproof Blue, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions. However, for those who prefer a stronger push feel, the slightly heavier actuation force of the Ink Black V2 may be more appealing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch to the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. The Ink Black V2 and the Dustproof Blue switches are equal in this aspect, providing consistent feedback and performance for keyboard users. Overall, both switches offer a standard travel distance that is comfortable for typing, making them suitable options for those looking for a smooth and satisfying typing experience.
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 Dustproof 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, giving a rich clack sound during key presses. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch does not have any specific sound descriptions available. Therefore, if you are looking for a switch with a deep and mellow sound profile, the Gateron Ink Black V2 would be the better choice.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with a smooth downstroke that is approachable to most users. The switch has a refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. As for the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, there are no specific feel descriptions provided. If you prefer a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish, the Gateron Ink Black V2 would be the more suitable option.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch excels in both sound and feel qualities, offering a rich clack sound with a smooth and polished typing experience. While the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch lacks specific sound and feel descriptions, based on the available information, it is clear that the Gateron Ink Black V2 would provide a more consistent and desirable keyboarding experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches would depend on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or both in your mechanical keyboard preferences.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, consider your typing preferences. If you enjoy a smooth and quiet typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the Ink Black V2 would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a more tactile feedback, the Dustproof Blue might be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize smoothness and silence or clicky and tactile feedback in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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