Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear. The Ink Black V2 is a classic linear switch that has garnered a strong following within the community. Known for its smooth downstroke and satisfying clack, this switch offers a pleasing typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear is a more innovative option that combines the best of silence and tactile feedback. Its semi-silent label is earned from its whisper-quiet topping-out sound, while still maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. With a silky smooth type feel, this switch strikes a balance between being polished and not over-polished. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear differ in their housing materials, which affect the sound profiles they produce. The Ink Black V2 features a proprietary INK blend top housing, known for its pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. It is described as clacky and satisfying. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear employs a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic, creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. It is particularly suitable for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. These differences in housing materials contribute to distinct sound characteristics between the two switches.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the Ink Black V2 and the Semi-Silent Linear also possess unique qualities. The Ink Black V2 utilizes its proprietary INK blend bottom housing, which produces a pointed and higher-pitched sound, often described as clacky. Conversely, the Semi-Silent Linear incorporates a nylon bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This material contributes to a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing.
When comparing the two switches, the impact of the housing material is split between the top and bottom of the switch. While the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Thus, the difference in housing materials between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear leads to contrasting sound experiences during both key press and release.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, a few key differences become evident. The Ink Black V2 has an actuation force of 60 grams, providing a medium-heavy feel, while the Semi-Silent Linear does not provide information on its actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the Ink Black V2 requires 70 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Semi-Silent Linear's 62 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter switch, the Ink Black V2 may not be the ideal choice due to its medium-heavy actuation force and higher bottom out force. The Semi-Silent Linear, with its unknown actuation force, may present a more suitable option for individuals looking for a lighter touch.
On the other hand, individuals who seek a more substantial typing experience and prefer a stronger push feel may find the Ink Black V2 to be more suitable. The higher actuation force and bottom out force of the Ink Black V2 offer a more robust typing experience compared to the Semi-Silent Linear, which has a medium actuation force and lighter bottom out force.
Overall, the Ink Black V2 is relatively heavier in terms of both actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Semi-Silent Linear, which suggests that it may provide a more substantial and tactile typing experience. However, the exact actuation force of the Semi-Silent Linear is unknown, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison. Depending on personal preference, either switch could offer a satisfying typing experience, catering to different individuals' weight preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. The Ink Black V2 falls into the category of a more traditional travel distance, providing a satisfying depth of 4.0 mm when pressed down. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear offers a slightly shallower travel distance of 3.7 mm, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a more responsive typing experience. Gamers, in particular, often opt for shorter travel distances to achieve faster response times. However, it's important to note that while shorter travel distances can be advantageous for some, others may find them too abrupt. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference - those seeking a more hearty feel may lean towards the Ink Black V2, while those prioritizing responsiveness may opt for the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear.
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 smooth downstroke and rich clack sound. It has a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, creating a deeper and mellow tone during key presses. Additionally, it has a unique chirpy characteristic that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a more subdued sound. While not completely silent, it produces a dampened and subtle sound when pressed. It has a more neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes and user levels.
In terms of feel, both the Ink Black V2 and the Semi-Silent Linear switches are described as mild, offering a more gentle typing experience. These switches provide a safe middle ground and are approachable to most users. They also share the characteristic of having a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. However, the Semi-Silent Linear switch also offers a snappy and buttery feel. Its super responsiveness is attributed to longer or dual-staged springs, enhancing the liveliness of the typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches have distinct sound and feel qualities. The Ink Black V2 offers a low-pitched, bassy, and chirpy sound profile, while the Semi-Silent Linear has a subdued and neutral sound. Both switches provide a mild and polished typing experience, but the Semi-Silent Linear also offers a snappy and buttery feel. Depending on the user's preference for sound and feel, these switches can provide a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, it all boils down to your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a bottom out force of 70 grams, the Ink Black V2 might be the better option for you. It offers a smooth downstroke and a rich clack in terms of sound. The Ink Black V2 is also described as having a mild and polished feel, providing a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a bottom out force of 62 grams, the Semi-Silent Linear might be more suitable. It is known for its innovative semi-silent design, offering a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. The Semi-Silent Linear is described as having a subdued and neutral sound, providing a dampened and subtle sound profile. In terms of feel, it is also described as mild and polished, ensuring a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences for weight, sound, and feel. Consider what type of typing experience you prefer and whether you prioritize a heavier or lighter switch. Additionally, think about the sound profile you prefer, whether it's a slightly lower-pitched and bassy sound, or a more subdued and neutral sound. Overall, both switches offer smooth and enjoyable typing experiences, so it ultimately comes down to your individual preferences.
Mentioned in this article
