Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Outemu Silent White
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Silent White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and Outemu Silent White are two options worth considering. The Gateron Ink Black V2 is a linear switch that has gained popularity for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, making it a classic choice in the mechanical keyboard community. Known for its low-pitched, bassy, chirpy, mild, and polished characteristics, this switch offers a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent White is also a linear switch, but with a different profile. While not as well-known as the Ink Black V2, the Silent White provides a silent 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
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
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 Silent White, we can see distinct differences in their construction. The Ink Black V2 features a proprietary INK blend top housing that is known for its pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, described as clacky. On the other hand, the Silent White utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While the INK blend provides a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound, the polycarbonate material offers a more clear and resonant sound, particularly beneficial for RGB lighting due to its translucency.
When it comes to the bottom housing of these switches, the differences become even more pronounced. The Ink Black V2 utilizes the same proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, resulting in a similar pointed and high-pitched sound profile as the top housing. In contrast, the Silent White features a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the INK blend.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Silent White housing materials will depend on the sound profile and feel that the user is looking for. The INK blend used in the Gateron switch offers a distinct clacky sound profile, both on the top and bottom housing, while the Silent White with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing provides a sharper and fuller sound profile. Understanding how each housing material affects the overall sound and feel of the switch can help enthusiasts make an informed decision based on their preferences.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a higher actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Silent White linear switch. The Ink Black V2 requires 60 grams of force to actuate a keystroke and 70 grams to bottom out, resulting in a medium-heavy feel. In contrast, the Silent White switch only needs 45 grams to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out, giving it a lighter and more medium feel. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Silent White switch, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Ink Black V2 may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Silent White linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Outemu Silent White has a shorter travel distance compared to the Gateron Ink Black V2. The shorter travel distance of the Outemu Silent White may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may prefer the longer travel distance of the Gateron Ink Black V2. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference on which one would be the best fit for 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 Silent White 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 and bassy sound profile, which offers a rich and mellow tone during key presses. Additionally, it has a unique chirpy element that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the sound characteristics of the Outemu Silent White linear switch are not specified, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard chassis and keycap material.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is described as having a mild typing experience with a polished finish, resulting in smooth and refined key travel. This switch offers a comfortable and approachable typing sensation that can appeal to a wide range of users. The feel of the Outemu Silent White switch is not detailed, so it is challenging to make a direct comparison in terms of typing experience. Similar to sound, the feel of a switch can also be affected by factors such as lubrication and construction materials.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is recognized for its smooth downstroke, rich clack, low-pitched sound, and mild typing experience with a polished finish. While the specific sound and feel qualities of the Outemu Silent White linear switch are not provided, based on the available information, it can be assumed that it may offer a different but comparable experience to the Gateron switch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing performance.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Silent White linear switches, you should consider your preference for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a smooth downstroke with a rich clack sound profile, the Gateron Ink Black V2 would be a great option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and value a quieter typing experience, the Outemu Silent White may be the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style. Happy typing!
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