Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Maple Leaf offer unique typing experiences. The Gateron Ink Black V2 is a linear switch beloved for its smooth downstroke and satisfying clack. It is known for its low-pitched, bassy sound profile, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf is a tactile switch that provides a tactile bump and clicky feedback with each key press. While it may not have a specific standout feature like the Ink Black V2, its versatility and tactile feel make it a popular choice for typists who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
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 Maple Leaf, it is clear that they both offer unique sound profiles. The Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, resulting in a satisfying "clacky" typing experience. In contrast, the Maple Leaf's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound and create a duller and rounder sound profile. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, they cater to different preferences in terms of typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend delivers a similar high-pitched sound profile as the top housing, creating a consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, providing a different tactile feel when typing. This contrast highlights how the choice of bottom housing material can impact the overall sound and typing experience of a switch. Though both switches offer different bottom housing materials, they both contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch in unique ways.
Overall, while the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches may have different housing materials, they both offer satisfying typing experiences with distinct sound profiles. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Black V2 creates a clacky and high-pitched sound, while the nylon top housing of the Maple Leaf produces a deeper and fuller sound. Similarly, the bottom housings of both switches contribute to the overall sound profile, with the INK blend delivering consistency and the nylon offering a unique tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound and typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch. The Ink Black V2 requires 60 grams of force to actuate and 70 grams to bottom out, while the Maple Leaf needs 55 grams to actuate and 65 grams to bottom out. This means that the Maple Leaf is lighter in both categories, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 provides a stronger push feel, which some users may find more satisfying for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and feedback.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, the Ink Black V2 has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Maple Leaf has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Ink Black V2 offers a more traditional and deeper key press feel compared to the shallower press of the Maple Leaf switch. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Maple Leaf, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the longer travel distance of the Ink Black V2. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, providing users with a variety of options based on their individual needs.
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 Maple Leaf 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, bassy, and chirpy characteristics, offering a mellow and rich sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is unavailable. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is described as mild and polished, providing a gentle typing experience with smooth and refined key travel. This offers a comfortable typing feel that is approachable to most users. However, the tactile feel of the Outemu Maple Leaf switch remains unknown.
Ultimately, when considering the subjective qualities of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it is evident that the Gateron option offers a known smooth downstroke, rich clack sound, gentle typing experience, and polished finish. While the information on the Maple Leaf switch is limited in comparison, if the desired outcome is similar to the qualities described for the Ink Black V2, one would likely achieve comparable results with the Maple Leaf switch. As with any mechanical keyboard switch, it is essential to consider personal preferences and typing style when making a decision.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a smooth downstroke with a rich clack sound, the Ink Black V2 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and a tactile typing experience, the Maple Leaf could be more suitable. Consider your sound and feel preferences as well - the Ink Black V2 offers a low-pitched, bassy, and chirpy sound with a mild and polished feel, while the Maple Leaf's sound and feel characteristics are not as defined. Ultimately, choosing the right switch is about finding the one that suits your typing needs and preferences the best.
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