Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Outemu Spring Breeze
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that come to mind are the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Spring Breeze. The Gateron Ink Black V2 is a linear switch that is highly regarded for its smooth downstroke and satisfying clack. Known for its low-pitched, bassy sound profile, this switch provides a mild typing experience that feels polished. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze is a clicky switch that offers a different tactile feel with a satisfying click sound. While it may not have a specific standout feature like the Gateron Ink Black V2, it still provides a unique typing experience. When choosing between these two switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what type of typing feel you are looking for. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 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
Nylon
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
The top housing material of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches play a significant role in determining the sound profile of the keystrokes. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Black V2 produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky, providing a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Spring Breeze creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While both materials impact the sound profile, the INK blend produces a sharper tone compared to the softer and fuller tone of nylon.
On the other hand, the bottom housing material of the switches also contributes to the overall sound and feel of typing. The INK blend bottom housing of the Gateron Ink Black V2 shares similar characteristics with its top housing, providing a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. In comparison, the nylon bottom housing of the Outemu Spring Breeze continues to offer a deeper and fuller sound that is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder sound profile when bottoming out. Both bottom housings impact the overall sound and feel of the keystrokes, with the INK blend showcasing a sharper sound while the nylon offers a softer and fuller tone.
When comparing the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches, it is evident that they have distinct characteristics that influence the sound profile of typing. The INK blend material in the Ink Black V2 creates a clacky and higher-pitched sound, while the nylon material in the Spring Breeze produces a deeper and fuller sound. The differences in material properties between the top and bottom housings contribute to the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key. Despite these variations, both switches offer a unique sound profile that caters to different preferences in typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, it is clear that they offer different experiences. The Gateron Ink Black V2 has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Spring Breeze has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it easier to type for longer periods without fatigue. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Spring Breeze, while those who enjoy a stronger push feel may prefer the Ink Black V2. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will feel the key travel a consistent distance from the top to the bottom. This ensures a similar typing experience with both switches in terms of travel distance. Overall, the travel distance of both switches is equal, making them both reliable options for a consistent and satisfying typing experience.
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 Spring Breeze 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, bassy, and slightly chirpy sound profile, offering a deep and rich tone with a unique squeak during key presses. On the other hand, information on the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch's sound characteristics is not provided. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Ink Black V2 switch is described as having a mild and polished feel, providing a gentle typing experience with smooth and refined key travel. These switches offer a safe middle-ground zone in terms of sound and feel, making them approachable to most users. Conversely, details about the tactile feel of the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch are not available.
Based on the available information, it is evident that the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch offers a smooth downstroke, rich clack sound, a mild and polished feel, and unique acoustic characteristics. While the specifics on the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch are lacking, it can be assumed that it may provide a different auditory and tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences in sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, you should opt for the Ink Black V2 if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth downstroke with a rich clack sound profile. This switch is also known for its low-pitched, bassy, and occasionally chirpy sound characteristics, as well as its mild and polished feel. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze with its medium-light bottom out force may be more suitable for you if you enjoy a lighter typing experience without the need to endure any loud clicky noises. Ultimately, your personal preferences for typing force, sound, and feel will dictate which switch is the best fit for you. Consider these factors in light of your own typing style and environment to make the most informed decision.
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