Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Outemu Green
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Green 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 Green offer distinct experiences for users. The Ink Black V2, a linear switch, is beloved for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts. With characteristics such as being low-pitched, bassy, chirpy, mild, and polished, this switch provides a satisfying typing feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Green, a clicky switch, offers a different typing experience with a distinct audible click sound. While it may not have specific characteristics listed, it is known for providing a tactile and responsive typing experience. If you prefer a smooth and quiet typing experience, the Ink Black V2 may be the ideal choice for you. However, if you enjoy a clicky and tactile typing experience, the Outemu Green might be more up your alley. 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
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
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and Outemu Green switches offer different sound profiles and tactile experiences. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Black V2 provides a slightly higher-pitched and clacky sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Outemu Green creates a sharper and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate also allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic element to the switch. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Green switch produces a deeper and fuller sound compared to the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Black V2, which is characterized by a thin and clacky sound.
Despite these differences, both switches incorporate unique housing materials that contribute to their overall performance. The INK blend housing of the Ink Black V2 is designed to create a satisfying sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Outemu Green absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Additionally, the stiffer polycarbonate material used in the Green switch's top housing enhances the clarity and resonance of the switch's sound profile, providing a distinct typing experience. In contrast, the softer nylon material in the bottom housing of the Green switch offers a more cushioned bottom-out feel.
Overall, the choice of housing material in a switch can significantly impact its sound and tactile feedback. While the Gateron Ink Black V2 and Outemu Green switches utilize different materials for their housing, both switches are designed to provide a unique typing experience. Whether you prefer the higher-pitched clack of the INK blend housing or the sharper sound of polycarbonate, each switch offers its own set of characteristics that cater to individual preferences. By understanding the qualities that each housing material brings to the switch, users can better customize their keyboards to suit their typing style and preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, it is evident that the Outemu Green is heavier in both aspects. The Gateron Ink Black V2 has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. In contrast, the Outemu Green has an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, categorizing it as a heavy switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Gateron Ink Black V2, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may gravitate towards the heavier Outemu Green switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force and desired keyboard experience.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu 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 key travel when using either of these switches. The 4 mm travel distance is considered to be on the shorter side compared to other switches in the market such as tactile switches, which can have a longer travel distance. Overall, the travel distance of both the Gateron Ink Black V2 and Outemu Green clicky switch provides a responsive and relatively quick typing experience for users.
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 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch stands out for its low-pitched, bassy, and chirpy characteristics, offering a deep and rich sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the Outemu Green clicky switch has no specific sound descriptors provided, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison. However, given the clicky nature of Outemu switches, it is likely to have a louder and more pronounced click sound compared to the smoother linear sound of the Gateron switch. Ultimately, the sound experience will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard build and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is noted for its mild and polished qualities, providing a gentle and refined typing experience with smooth key travel and reduced friction. In contrast, there are no specific feel descriptors provided for the Outemu Green clicky switch. Clicky switches like the Outemu Green typically offer a tactile bump and audible click during keystrokes, providing a more tactile typing experience compared to linear switches. This tactile feedback can enhance typing accuracy and satisfaction for users who prefer a more pronounced feel while typing.
Overall, while both the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel, it is important to consider personal preferences and typing habits when choosing between them. If you enjoy a smoother, quieter typing experience with a deeper sound profile, the Gateron switch may be more suitable. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky and tactile typing experience with audible feedback, the Outemu switch could be a better option. Ultimately, trying out both switches on a keyboard to see how they feel and sound in practice would give you the best idea of which one suits your preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Outemu Green clicky switch, you should consider the bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel preferences. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smoother typing experience with a low-pitched and bassy sound, the Gateron Ink Black V2 would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a more pronounced clicky sound, you may find the Outemu Green clicky switch more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preferences in terms of typing feel and sound profile.
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