Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Outemu Ocean
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Ocean 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 Ocean are two popular choices that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Ink Black V2 is a linear switch that is well-loved for its smooth downstroke and satisfying clack sound. With characteristics like being low-pitched, bassy, and polished, it is a great option for those who enjoy a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean is a tactile switch that offers a tactile bump with each keystroke. While it doesn't have a specific standout feature, it provides a more pronounced feedback compared to the Ink Black V2. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and typing style. 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
N/A
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Ocean, one can see that they both offer unique sound profiles. The Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a pointed and high-pitched sound that is described as clacky, while the Ocean's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. While both materials contribute to creating distinct sound profiles, the polycarbonate top housing is especially effective for showcasing RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Black V2 provides a similar high-pitched sound profile, while the Ocean's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound.
When it comes to the impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. The nylon bottom housing of the Ocean creates a duller and rounder sound profile, which can provide a more subdued typing experience compared to the clacky sound produced by the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Black V2. However, the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key, with the polycarbonate top housing of the Ocean delivering a sharp and resonant sound, contrasting with the higher-pitched sound produced by the INK blend top housing of the Ink Black V2.
Overall, while the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Ocean may have different housing materials, they both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Whether it's the clacky sound of the INK blend or the sharper sound of polycarbonate, each housing material brings its own benefits to the typing experience. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of the Ocean provides a deeper sound profile, contrasting with the higher-pitched sound of the INK blend bottom housing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and typing feel.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Ocean tactile switch. The Ink Black V2 requires 60 grams of force to actuate a key and 70 grams to bottom out, while the Ocean needs 55 grams to actuate but the bottom out force is unknown. In terms of weight, the Ink Black V2 is on the medium-heavy side, which can provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Ocean's lighter actuation force may be more comfortable for extended typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience and desired force feedback.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users will get consistent results in terms of key feel and responsiveness when using either switch. Overall, the travel distance of 4 mm for both switches highlights the attention to detail and precision in design, making them suitable choices for those seeking a specific travel distance in their mechanical keyboard switches.
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 Ocean 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 best known for its low-pitched and bassy tones, providing a rich and deep sound profile during key presses. These switches also have a unique chirpy quality that sets them apart from others. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch's sound characteristics are unknown. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is described as offering a mild and polished typing experience. This means that users can expect a gentle typing sensation with smooth and refined key travel, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction. The Outemu Ocean tactile switch's feel is not specified, leaving it unknown how it compares to the Ink Black V2.
Overall, if sound and feel are important factors for your mechanical keyboard switch choice, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch appears to offer a smooth downstroke with a rich clack sound and a mild, polished typing experience. While the qualities of sound and feel for the Outemu Ocean tactile switch remain unknown, it is possible that you may achieve similar results with both switches if you prefer a linear feel with a low-pitched sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences and the overall typing experience you are seeking to achieve.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a smooth linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a low-pitched, bassy sound profile, the Gateron Ink Black V2 may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with an unknown bottom out force and a tactile typing experience, you may want to explore the Outemu Ocean switch. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel, sound, and switch characteristics.
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