Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Outemu Dustproof Green
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Are you in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch but can't decide between a linear or clicky option? Look no further than the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches. The Ink Black V2 is a classic linear switch beloved by the community for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, making it perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Green switch is a clicky option that provides a satisfying tactile feedback with every keypress. While the Ink Black V2 is known for its low-pitched, bassy sound profile, the Dustproof Green remains a mystery in terms of sound characteristics. 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
80g
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Green, one key difference lies in the top housing material used. The Gateron switch features a proprietary INK blend top housing, known for its pointed and high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. On the other hand, the Dustproof Green switch utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. While both materials offer a high-pitched sound, the Gateron switch may provide a slightly softer sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate housing of the Outemu switch.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Gateron Ink Black V2 features the same proprietary INK blend as the top housing, emphasizing a thin and higher-pitched sound profile. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Green uses a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the material. The nylon material absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the Gateron switch. This difference in material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches.
Overall, while the top housing of both switches may offer a high-pitched sound, the Gateron Ink Black V2 tends to provide a slightly softer sound compared to the crisper sound produced by the Outemu Dustproof Green's polycarbonate top housing. Additionally, the bottom housing materials differ significantly, with the Gateron switch offering a thin and higher-pitched sound from the INK blend material, and the Outemu switch providing a deeper and fuller sound from the nylon material. Understanding how these housing materials affect sound profiles can help users choose the switch that best suits their preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch. The Ink Black V2 has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it medium-heavy. In contrast, the Dustproof Green has an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, making it heavier. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Gateron switch, as it requires less force to type while still providing a substantial feel. On the other hand, those looking for a more robust typing experience may favor the Outemu switch due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the keys travel from the top to the bottom. The travel distance of 4 mm for both switches ensures consistent feedback and tactile feel when typing, with neither switch being shorter or longer in this regard. Overall, whether you choose the Gateron Ink Black V2 or the Outemu Dustproof Green, you can expect a similar travel distance and 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 Green 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 offers a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, with a hint of chirpiness that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch's sound profile is unknown, so we cannot make a direct comparison in this aspect. When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Ink Black V2 is known for providing a mild and polished typing experience, with smooth key travel and reduced friction. Unfortunately, information about the feel of the Dustproof Green switch is unavailable. Overall, if you are looking for a switch with a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, as well as a smooth and polished typing experience, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch would be a great choice. However, if the sound and feel of the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch align with your preferences, you may also achieve similar satisfying results with that switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, you should consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a smooth downstroke with a rich clack, the Ink Black V2 may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and value a unique acoustic signature during key presses, the Dustproof Green could be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and what qualities you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
