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Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Outemu Peach

An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

Introducing the Gateron Ink Black V2, a classic linear switch that has long been favored by mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. With its smooth downstroke and satisfying clack, this switch offers a delightful typing experience. Known for its low-pitched, bassy sound profile, the Ink Black V2 provides a mild yet polished feel. On the other hand, we have the Outemu Peach, a unique linear switch that stands out for its feather-light weight and silent operation. Designed for those who crave a gentle and quiet typing experience, the Peach switches are perfect for linear enthusiasts. Categorized as neutral, mild, muted, subtle, and polished, these switches offer an understated yet refined experience. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best choice for your needs.

By the numbers

Technical specifications

Actuation force

60g

Actuation force

40g

Bottom-out force

70g

Bottom-out force

50g

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Total travel

4.00 mm

Total travel

3.30 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

Nylon

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

The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Outemu Peach switches have distinct differences in terms of sound profile. The Ink Black V2 utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housings, resulting in a pointed and relatively high-pitched yet not overly sharp sound. This creates a satisfying thin and clacky sound when typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach switches have nylon top and bottom housings. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing.

The differences in housing materials also have an impact on the feel of the switches. The bottom housing, which is made of the respective materials, plays a significant role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel. With the Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend bottom housing, the switch provides a pointed and clacky sensation when pressed. Meanwhile, the Outemu Peach's nylon bottom housing contributes to a smoother and softer bottom-out feel. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more impact, creating a cushioned sensation when typing.

While the top and bottom housings offer distinct qualities to the switches, they also work in harmony to affect the overall sound. When letting go of a key, the top housing's material characteristics become more dominant in influencing the sound produced. With the Ink Black V2's INK blend top housing, the result is a higher-pitched and clacky sound as the key is released. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Outemu Peach produces a more rounded and muffled sound when keys are released. Despite these differences, both switches result in a satisfying sound experience, albeit with varying characteristics.

In summary, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and Outemu Outemu Peach switches differ in housing materials, resulting in contrasting sound profiles and tactile experiences. The proprietary INK blend used in the Ink Black V2 creates a clacky and thin sound with a pointed feel, while the nylon housing of the Outemu Peach generates a deeper and fuller sound with a softer and smoother bottom-out feel. However, when releasing a key, the top housing becomes more influential in shaping the sound. Ultimately, both switches provide satisfying sound experiences, albeit with unique qualities attributed to their respective housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch, there are notable differences in their weight. The Ink Black V2 has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, classifying it as a light switch.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Outemu Peach would be the ideal choice as its actuation and bottom out forces are lower compared to the Ink Black V2. This lighter weight allows for more comfortable typing over extended periods, making it suitable for office use or long gaming sessions.

However, individuals who prefer a more substantial and forceful keystroke would find the Ink Black V2 appealing. Its heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide a stronger push feel, resulting in a more satisfying typing experience. This type of switch is often favored by those who seek a tactile and robust response when typing.

It is important to note that while the weight of the switches differs, the overall results achieved from both the Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Peach would be similar. They both offer smooth linear switches, ensuring a consistent and predictable keystroke regardless of the force required. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference for typing feel and the desired level of force in keystrokes.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Outemu Outemu Peach linear switch, we can see that the Ink Black V2 has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Peach has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the Ink Black V2 has a longer travel distance compared to the Outemu Peach. The Ink Black V2's 4 mm travel distance falls into the more traditional range, providing a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on the key. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach's 3.3 mm travel distance is on the shorter side, appealing to gamers who prioritize faster response times and a more responsive typing experience. So, if you prefer a shorter travel distance for quick and snappy key presses, the Outemu Peach is the better option. However, if you prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when typing, the Ink Black V2 with its longer travel distance would be more suitable. Both options offer distinct advantages, so it ultimately depends on individual preferences.

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 Peach comes in at $3.40 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 provides a low-pitched, bassy, and slightly chirpy sound profile. These switches offer a deeper and richer tone during key presses, making them a popular choice for those who prefer a more mellow sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach switches have a neutral and muted sound profile. They produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches, making them ideal for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience, especially in shared spaces. It is important to note that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, both the Gateron Ink Black V2 and Outemu Peach switches offer a mild and polished typing experience. This means that they provide a gentle and approachable typing experience without any extreme characteristics. The switches have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. They both fall into a safe middle-ground zone in terms of feel, making them suitable for a wide range of users.

Taking all the available information into consideration, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and Outemu Peach switches have distinct qualities but can offer similar results in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Black V2 provides a deeper and richer sound with a smooth downstroke and a slight chirp, while the Outemu Peach offers a softer and more muted sound. Both switches offer a gentle and polished typing experience, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience. Whether you prefer a more mellow sound or a subdued typing feel, both switches can provide a satisfactory experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a smooth downstroke and rich clack, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is a great choice. With its bottom out force of 70 grams, it offers a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, if you prefer switches with a low-pitched, bassy, or slightly chirpy sound profile, the Ink Black V2 would be a good fit.

On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a feathery light typing experience, the Outemu Outemu Peach linear switch is a great option. With its bottom out force of 50 grams, it provides a gentle resistance and a subtle typing feel. These switches are also silenced, making them perfect for shared spaces or those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Additionally, if you prefer a more neutral sound profile or a muted sound to minimize noise, the Outemu Peach switches would be a suitable choice.

Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Outemu Peach switches depends on your preference for typing force, sound profile, and typing feel. Consider your desired typing experience and choose the switch that aligns with your preferences.

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