Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Silent Yellow mechanical keyboard switches, there are a few key differences to consider. The Ink Black V2 is a classic linear switch known for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, making it a popular choice among keyboard enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow is a linear switch that offers a quieter typing experience. While the Ink Black V2 is praised for its low-pitched and bassy sound profile, the Silent Yellow is known for being silent and having a mild feel. Both switches have their own unique qualities that may appeal to different types of users. 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
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
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 Silent Yellow switches, one can see distinct differences in sound profiles. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Black V2 is known for its pointed, high-pitched, yet not overly sharp sound, resulting in a clacky typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Yellow's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound due to its stiffness, creating a more resonant profile. While both materials offer a satisfying auditory feedback, the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Yellow may be preferred for those who appreciate a clearer sound with RGB lighting capabilities.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Black V2 mirrors the top housing's sound profile with its thin and higher-pitched characteristics. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Silent Yellow contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. The nylon material absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder typing experience compared to the sharpness of the INK blend bottom housing. These differences in bottom housing materials can impact the overall sound and feel of the switch when typing, providing distinct tactile feedback for users.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Silent Yellow will ultimately come down to personal preference in sound profile. While the Ink Black V2 offers a clacky and high-pitched typing experience with its INK blend housing, the Silent Yellow provides a crisper and sharper sound with its polycarbonate and nylon housing materials. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, making them suitable options for those seeking distinct typing experiences. Whether seeking a more resonant sound or a fuller sound profile, users can choose the housing materials that align with their preferences for a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it is evident that there are differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Ink Black V2 has a lighter actuation force of 60 grams, compared to the Silent Yellow's 65 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ink Black V2 requires 70 grams, which is lighter than the Silent Yellow's 80 grams. This means that while the Silent Yellow may require a slightly heavier initial press, it ultimately requires more force to fully press the key down compared to the Ink Black V2. In terms of weight preference, those looking for a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Ink Black V2, while those who prefer a stronger push feel may opt for the Silent Yellow for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, both switches offer different force profiles, and the choice between the two will ultimately depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in that aspect. This means that users can expect a consistent and similar typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from top to bottom when pressing down on a key. Both switches offer a shorter travel distance compared to switches with longer travel distances, such as tactile or clicky switches. Despite both switches having the same travel distance, they may still feel different due to other factors such as actuation force and overall switch design. Overall, users can expect similar results in terms of travel distance when using either the Gateron Ink Black V2 or the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch.
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 Yellow 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, bassy, and slightly chirpy sound profile, offering a smooth downstroke and a rich clack. On the other hand, information about the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch's sound profile is not available, so it's difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Ink Black V2 is characterized as providing a mild and polished typing experience. These switches offer a gentle and refined typing feel, with smooth and sleek key travel due to either the materials used or factory lubrication. As for the Outemu Silent Yellow, information regarding its tactile feel is not provided, making it challenging to make a direct comparison in terms of typing experience.
Overall, if you are looking for a linear switch with a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, as well as a mild and polished typing feel, the Gateron Ink Black V2 would be a solid choice based on the available information. While details about the Outemu Silent Yellow's sound and feel are not explicitly stated, if you prefer similar qualities, you may achieve comparable results with this switch. Ultimately, personal preference and typing experience will play a significant role in determining which switch is the best fit for you.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, you should choose the Ink Black V2 if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth downstroke with a rich clack sound. This switch is also known for its low-pitched, bassy sound profile and mild, polished feel. On the other hand, you should opt for the Silent Yellow if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a silent typing experience. The Silent Yellow switch does not have any distinct sound or feel descriptors, but it offers a unique typing experience that is quieter compared to the Ink Black V2. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for typing feel, sound, and force requirements.
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