Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Outemu Silent Green

Overview

When it comes to the world of mechanical keyboards, two noteworthy linear switches worth considering are the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Silent Green. The Ink Black V2 has earned its reputation as a beloved classic within the community, offering a smooth downstroke characterized by a rich, satisfying clack and categorized by its low-pitched, bassy, and chirpy sound profile. This makes it a great choice for those who enjoy audible feedback without the harshness found in some other switches. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Green aims to provide a more subdued typing experience, prioritizing quietness with its smooth linear action, though it lacks a distinct sound profile that stands out in the same way as its Gateron counterpart. Choosing between these switches ultimately comes down to whether you prefer the satisfying acoustics of the Ink Black V2 or the stealthier operation of the Silent Green. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Black V2 Linear

Outemu Silent Green Linear

$7.50

$7.24 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and Outemu Silent Green switches present notable differences that ultimately contribute to their sound profiles and overall performance. The Ink Black V2 features Gateron's proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housings. This blend is specifically designed to create a pointed, higher-pitched sound that many users describe as satisfying and clacky. In contrast, the Silent Green utilizes polycarbonate for its top and bottom housings. Polycarbonate is known for its rigidity and translucency, allowing for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both switches aim for distinct auditory experiences, the materials clearly underpin the variance in their acoustic characteristics.

Despite the differences in manufacturing materials, both the Ink Black V2's INK blend and the Silent Green's polycarbonate yield high-pitched sound profiles. The similarities lie primarily in the desired outcome, as both switches produce a satisfying auditory response that can enhance the typing experience. Users may find that either switch provides an enjoyable clack-like sound, reflecting the intention behind their design choices. However, the specific qualities attributed to each material will affect the nuances of the sound, with the INK blend creating a somewhat thicker clack, while the polycarbonate delivers a crisper, more resonant note.

When considering the impact of housing materials on switch performance, it's vital to recognize the role of both the top and bottom housings. In the case of the Ink Black V2, both parts contribute to a higher-pitched sound, creating a cohesive auditory experience that may feel somewhat consistent throughout. Meanwhile, the Silent Green's polycarbonate housing excels in legibility and crispness, particularly when incorporating RGB lighting due to its translucency. Ultimately, while both switches share a commitment to high-pitched sounds, their respective housing materials lead to varied acoustic nuances that can influence user preference substantially, paving the way for distinct tactile and auditory experiences.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch to the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, a noticeable difference is observed in both actuation and bottom out forces. The 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 Silent Green features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium switch. This means that the Ink Black V2 is the heavier switch overall, providing a more substantial feel during typing, which some users may prefer for a tactile experience. Conversely, the Silent Green’s lighter actuation force may appeal to those who seek a less strenuous typing experience, particularly beneficial for extended periods of typing or gaming. If both switches are used, the lighter force of the Silent Green can lead to less fatigue, while the heavier Ink Black V2 can offer a satisfying, deliberate keystroke. Thus, users can expect contrasting experiences based on their individual preferences regarding switch weight.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch exhibit the same travel distance of 4 mm, leading to a comparable typing experience in terms of key travel. Since both switches have identical travel distances, users can expect similar results regarding the distance felt when pressing down on each key. This uniformity can be advantageous for those who prefer consistent responsiveness across their keyboard.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Silent Green switches, the Ink Black V2 stands out with its distinct auditory characteristics. It is known for having a low-pitched, bassy tone that provides a rich, mellow sound profile with each key press. The additional chirpy quality adds a slight squeakiness, which gives it a unique acoustic signature that enthusiasts appreciate in a mechanical keyboard. In contrast, the sound quality of the Silent Green switches is unknown, making it impossible to draw direct comparisons. However, a good choice of board and keycap materials will influence the overall sound of any switch.

When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Ink Black V2 is characterized by its mild and polished nature, which offers a gentle and soothing typing experience. The polished finish ensures smooth key travel with reduced friction, making it approachable for a wide range of users. This smooth operation is appealing for both typists and gamers alike, as it allows for fluid keystrokes without feeling overly harsh or aggressive. The specifics of the Silent Green's feel are not defined, so no direct comparison can be made. Without additional information, one can only observe that any switch chosen will vary in tactile feedback.

In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch appears to provide an inviting combination of sound and feel with its low-pitched, bassy acoustics and smooth typing experience. Its unique chirpy quality sets it apart within the linear switch community. In contrast, little is known about the Outemu Silent Green switch, particularly in regard to its sound and feel, leaving potential users without specific insights. If you are looking for a switch that offers a well-rounded experience, the Ink Black V2 stands as a solid choice, while the Silent Green may require further exploration for equal clarity on its qualities.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Silent Green linear switches largely depends on your typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you enjoy a heavier feel and appreciate a smooth typing experience enriched with a low-pitched, bassy sound, the Ink Black V2 is likely the better choice for you. Its 70-gram bottom-out force offers a satisfying resistance that can enhance your tactile feedback, making it ideal for both typing and gaming scenarios where precision is key. On the other hand, if you prefer a more moderate actuation force, the Silent Green switch, with its 60-gram bottom-out force, is perfect for quieter settings. While it doesn’t have a distinct sound profile, its softer actuation provides a gentle feel that is less taxing during extended typing sessions. In essence, if you’re looking for enhanced sound and feedback with a more robust feel, go for the Ink Black V2; however, if you seek a quieter, more subdued typing experience, the Silent Green will suit your needs perfectly.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Black V2 Linear

$7.50

$7.24 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Silent Green Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more