Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Outemu Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Red, both of which are linear switches. The Ink Black V2 stands out for its reputation as a community favorite with a smooth downstroke and a satisfying clack sound. It is often described as 'Low-pitched', 'Bassy', 'Chirpy', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Outemu Red is a quieter switch with no specific standout features. While the choice between these two switches may seem straightforward based on these general descriptions, it's important to delve deeper into their unique characteristics to determine which one suits your typing preferences the best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.10 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Red, one key difference is in the top housing material. The Ink Black V2 features a proprietary INK blend top housing, known for its relatively high-pitched and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Red uses a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound. While both materials offer a higher-pitched sound, the polycarbonate in the Red switch provides a more resonant and clear sound profile due to its stiffness.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the differences continue to emerge. The Ink Black V2 utilizes the same proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, resulting in a pointed and thin sound profile. In contrast, the Outemu Red employs a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile compared to the sharper sound produced by the INK blend material in the Gateron switch.
Overall, while the top and bottom housings of the two switches offer distinct sound profiles, the impact of these materials is felt differently depending on how the switch is used. The bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, with the nylon in the Red switch providing a deeper typing experience compared to the Gateron's INK blend. Meanwhile, the top housing material plays a greater role in the sound when a key is released, with the polycarbonate in the Red switch creating a clearer and more resonant sound for a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch to the Outemu Red linear switch, it is evident that there are some notable differences in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Ink Black V2 has a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a higher bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Outemu Red switch has a lower actuation force of 46 grams and a lower bottom out force of 62 grams, putting it in the medium range. The lighter actuation force of the Outemu Red switch may make it more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions, as it requires less effort to trigger keystrokes. In contrast, the heavier actuation force of the Ink Black V2 switch provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, both switches have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience a similar distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures that the typing experience with both switches will feel consistent and provide similar results in terms of keypress feedback and actuation. Overall, in terms of travel distance, both the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Red switches offer equal performance and comfort to the user.
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 Red 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
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is known for its low-pitched and bassy sound profile, with a hint of chirpiness that sets it apart from other switches. This switch offers a smooth downstroke and a rich clack, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Red linear switch is unknown, but it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Ink Black V2 is described as providing a mild and polished typing experience. The mild feel offers a gentle typing experience that falls into a safe middle-ground zone, making it accessible to most users. The polished finish of the switch results in smooth key travel and reduced friction, enhancing the overall typing experience. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Red switch is unknown, but it is essential to consider the importance of a switch's tactile feel in determining overall satisfaction with a mechanical keyboard.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch offers a unique sound profile with a smooth downstroke and rich clack, along with a mild and polished feel that enhances the typing experience. While the sound and feel of the Outemu Red switch are unknown, it is important to explore the subjective qualities of a switch to determine its suitability for individual preferences. Ultimately, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, and by considering the available information, users can make an informed decision based on their personal preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Red linear switches, you should choose the Ink Black V2 if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth downstroke with a rich clack. This switch also offers a low-pitched, bassy, and slightly chirpy sound profile, along with a mild and polished feel. On the other hand, you should opt for the Outemu Red switch if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a linear feel without any specific sound or feel characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of force, sound, and feel.
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