Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Kailh Plum. The Ink Black V2 is a linear switch that has earned a special place in the mechanical keyboard community. Its smooth downstroke and satisfying clack make it a favorite among enthusiasts. On the other hand, we have the Plum, a tactile switch with a unique twist. Despite its hefty feel, it doesn't feature a pronounced tactile bump like many other tactile switches do. This sets it apart and offers a distinct typing experience. The Plum also boasts a neutral and enjoyable sound profile. If you're in search of a low-pitched, bassy, and polished switch, the Ink Black V2 might be your go-to choice. However, if you prefer a neutral, mild, and stepped feel, the Plum could be the one for you. Let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision based on your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Kailh Plum differ in terms of the sound profile they produce. The Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend top housing offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, described as clacky. On the other hand, the Plum's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer plastic composition. Additionally, the polycarbonate housing of the Plum is translucent, making it ideal for those who plan to use RGB lighting.
In terms of bottom housing, the Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend provides a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound, while the Plum utilizes a nylon bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer plastic nature. This results in a duller and rounder sound when compared to the Ink Black V2's sound. The nylon housing absorbs more sound than harder plastics, contributing to its unique sound properties.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches offer their own distinctive sound profiles. The Ink Black V2 produces a clacky sound with its INK blend housing, while the Plum offers a crisper and higher-pitched sound with its polycarbonate top housing. Similarly, the Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend bottom housing delivers a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound, while the Plum's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. It's important to note that the qualities of each housing material will play a role in the sound and feel of the switch, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing impacting the sound when releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. The Ink Black V2 has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the actuation force of the Kailh Plum tactile switch is unavailable in the given information, but its bottom out force is also 70 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category as well.
The actuation force is crucial as it determines the amount of pressure needed to register a keystroke. In this case, since the actuation force for the Kailh Plum is not specified, it is uncertain how it compares to the 60-gram actuation force of the Gateron Ink Black V2. However, assuming they have similar actuation forces, users can expect comparable results in terms of typing sensitivity and responsiveness.
Meanwhile, the bottom out force reveals the force required to fully press a key down. Both switches have the same bottom out force of 70 grams, indicating a similar tactile feedback and clack sound when the keys are fully pressed. For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gateron Ink Black V2 might be more suitable as it has a slightly lower actuation force. Conversely, those who desire a more substantial push feel while typing may lean towards the Kailh Plum switch.
Considering the weight factor, individuals who value a lighter switch for extended typing sessions or extended gaming periods may opt for the Gateron Ink Black V2. Conversely, for users who prefer a stronger push feel to enhance their typing experience, switches with heavier forces like the Kailh Plum would be more appropriate. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on the user's personal preference regarding actuation force and bottom out force, as well as their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, it is clear that the Ink Black V2 has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Plum has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Ink Black V2's 4.0 mm travel distance is more traditional, providing a satisfying depth when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Plum's 3.6 mm travel distance is slightly shallower, making it a popular choice among gamers who prioritize faster response times. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on individual preference and whether a longer or shorter travel distance is preferred.
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 Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch offers a low-pitched and bassy sound profile. These switches have a more mellow tone and a deeper, richer sound during key presses. Additionally, they have a unique acoustic signature that sets them apart from other switches with a little squeak. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile. It has a moderate sound profile and is suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or using it at home or work. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch offer a mild typing experience. These switches provide a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. They both fall into a safe, middle-ground zone that is approachable for most users. Additionally, the Gateron Ink Black V2 switch is described as having a polished finish, resulting in smooth and refined key travel with reduced friction. The Plum switch, on the other hand, has a stepped feel, meaning it has two stages of tactile feedback. This provides a mild tactile experience where you can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Black V2 provides a low-pitched and bassy sound with a smooth and refined typing experience, thanks to its polished finish. The Plum switch, on the other hand, offers a neutral sound profile and a mild typing experience with its stepped tactile feedback. Ultimately, both switches offer qualities that make them suitable for different preferences and purposes, and you can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel when using them.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a classic and smooth linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron Ink Black V2 would be a great choice for you. It offers a satisfying clack during key presses and has a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, adding depth and richness to your typing experience. Additionally, the Ink Black V2 has a mild feel, providing a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique tactile switch with the same medium-heavy bottom out force, the Kailh Plum would be a perfect fit. While it may not have a significant tactile bump, it offers a neutral sound profile that is enjoyable in any setting. The Plum has a mild feel as well, but with a stepped characteristic, giving you the sensation of pre-travel and/or post-travel during key presses. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preference for linear or tactile switches, as well as the specific sound and feel qualities you desire in your keyboard.
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