Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Red Panda. The Ink Black V2 is a linear switch that has stood the test of time, loved by the community for its smooth downstroke and satisfying clack. On the other hand, we have the Red Panda, a tactile switch that offers a light-medium amount of tactility, paired with a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. While the Ink Black V2 is categorized as low-pitched, bassy, chirpy, mild, and polished, the Red Panda falls under the thocky and mild category. Both switches have their unique characteristics and are great options depending on your preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide the perfect switch for your typing experience.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
The Gateron Ink Black V2's housing materials consist of a proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housing. This blend creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, described as clacky. In contrast, the Outemu Red Panda features a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to its stiffness. This makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting. The nylon bottom housing, on the other hand, offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound.
Though the top and bottom housings of the two switches differ in material, they share some similarities. Both the proprietary INK blend and the polycarbonate material tend to produce a higher-pitched sound profile. However, the INK blend is described as not overly sharp, while polycarbonate is known for its clear and resonant sound. The nylon bottom housing, on the other hand, provides a distinct contrast with its soft and absorbent nature, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound compared to the INK blend.
When it comes to the overall feel of the switches, the bottom housing plays a significant role in determining the experience. The qualities brought by the bottom housing material are felt during the bottom-out sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing of the Red Panda contributes to a more pronounced impact and potentially a softer bottom-out sound. In contrast, the top housing material has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. Whether it's the proprietary INK blend of the Ink Black V2 or the polycarbonate of the Red Panda, the top housing enhances the overall sound profile when a key is released.
In summary, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Red Panda employ different housing materials that create distinct sound profiles. The proprietary INK blend of the Ink Black V2 offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Red Panda produces a sharper and crisper sound. The nylon bottom housing of the Red Panda provides a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer composition. However, both switches share similarities in terms of their higher-pitched sound profiles. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater impact on 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 Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, there are notable differences. The Ink Black V2 has a slightly higher actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Red Panda's 50 grams. This means that the Ink Black V2 requires a bit more force to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Ink Black V2 is also slightly higher at 70 grams compared to the Red Panda's 60 grams. This means that the Ink Black V2 provides a slightly heavier and more substantial typing experience overall. However, it is worth mentioning that both switches fall into the medium weight category. Therefore, if you prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of typing or gaming, both switches will provide similar results. On the other hand, if you prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, the Ink Black V2 with its higher actuation force and bottom out force would be the better choice.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it becomes evident that they have different distances. The Ink Black V2 has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Red Panda has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Ink Black V2 offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a deeper key press experience. On the other hand, the Red Panda offers a shorter travel distance, which is favored by gamers seeking faster response times. Therefore, if you prioritize quicker responsiveness, the Red Panda is the preferable option. However, if you prefer a more substantial and deliberate key press, the Ink Black V2, with its longer travel distance, would be the better choice. Both switches offer their own unique advantages, catering to the preferences of different individuals.
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 Red Panda comes in at $3.40 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 offers a low-pitched, bassy sound profile accompanied by a chirpy characteristic. This means that the switch produces a deeper and richer tone during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, the chirpy aspect adds a unique squeak to the switch, setting it apart from others. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is described as thocky, which means it produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. Think of a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released. Both switches offer distinct and desirable sound qualities, but the choice ultimately depends on personal preference, as the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, both the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch are described as providing a mild typing experience. This means that they offer a more gentle and approachable feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Both switches fall within a safe and middle-ground zone in terms of their tactile feedback and overall typing experience. However, the Ink Black V2 is also described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. It is unclear whether the Red Panda switch offers a similar polished finish, as no such information is provided. Nonetheless, both switches are likely to provide a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to mechanical keyboards.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Black V2 provides a low-pitched, bassy sound profile with a chirpy characteristic, while the Red Panda offers a thocky sound. Both switches offer a mild and approachable typing experience, but the Ink Black V2 is further complemented by its polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, newcomers can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience with either switch, and the ultimate decision should be based on personal preference and desired sound characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a classic linear switch with a smooth downstroke and a rich clack, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch would be a great choice for you. With a bottom out force of 70 grams, it offers a medium-heavy typing feel that is approachable to most users. The Ink Black V2 is also known for its low-pitched and bassy sound profile, providing a mellow and deep tone during key presses. Additionally, it is described as having a mild and polished feel, offering a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a light-medium amount of tactility and a distinctive sound profile, the Outemu Red Panda switch would be a suitable option for you. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, it offers a medium typing feel. The Red Panda is best known for its raindrop-like bottom-out sound and clackier top-out sound, providing a unique acoustic experience. It is described as having a thocky sound, producing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed.
Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Red Panda switches comes down to personal preference and what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch. Whether you prefer a smooth linear switch with a rich clack and polished feel, or a tactile switch with a distinctive sound profile and a mild typing experience, both switches offer their own unique qualities to enhance your typing experience. Choose the one that aligns with your preferences and enjoy a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
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