Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron Ink Black V2, a linear switch renowned for its smooth downstroke and satisfying clack, and the TTC Silent Brown, a tactile switch that promises a comfortable typing experience with a rounded tactile bump. On one hand, the Ink Black V2 offers a low-pitched, bassy sound profile that many in the mechanical keyboard community have grown to love. On the other hand, the Silent Brown provides a buttery and muted sound profile that is perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Both switches are categorized as mild and polished, ensuring a refined feel during use. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
The Gateron Ink Black V2 and the TTC Silent Brown switches have different materials for their housing, resulting in different sound profiles. The Ink Black V2 features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which provides a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. It has a satisfying, thin, and clacky sound that is not overly sharp. In contrast, the Silent Brown switch has a polycarbonate top housing, which delivers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more pronounced sound when typing. Therefore, users can expect distinct sound characteristics from each switch due to their different top housing materials.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches have unique properties. The Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend bottom housing complements its top housing, resulting in a similar thin and higher-pitched sound profile. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown utilizes a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile because of its relatively softer plastic composition. This material absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can expect a difference in the typing experience and sound output between these two switches due to their contrasting bottom housing materials.
Overall, while both the Gateron Ink Black V2 and TTC Silent Brown switches have their proprietary blend of housing materials, they provide different sound characteristics. The Ink Black V2's INK blend top and bottom housing produce a thin, clacky sound, whereas the Silent Brown's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the Silent Brown's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, contrasting with the Ink Black V2's higher-pitched sound. Therefore, users can select the switch that aligns with their preferred sound profile based on the material used in the housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, there are notable similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the Silent Brown requires a lighter touch with a force of 45 grams, while the Ink Black V2 is slightly heavier at 60 grams. This means that the Silent Brown allows for a quicker triggering of keystrokes with a lighter touch, which can be advantageous for those who prefer a more sensitive typing experience. However, both switches fall under the medium-heavy category, indicating a substantial push feel for both.
When it comes to bottom out force, the Ink Black V2 requires a slightly heavier force of 70 grams compared to the Silent Brown's 63.5 grams. This implies that the Ink Black V2 offers a more solid and pronounced typing experience when fully pressing the keys, providing a satisfying tactile feedback. The Silent Brown, although lighter in bottom out force, still offers a notable level of resistance, ensuring a tactile feedback for those who prefer it.
Considering weight as a factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience might opt for the Silent Brown due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces. This lighter touch can be beneficial for extended typing sessions, especially for those who use their keyboard for work or indulge in prolonged gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more robust typing feel may lean towards the heavier forces of the Ink Black V2, as it provides a more substantial and satisfying keystroke.
In summary, while the Silent Brown has a lighter actuation and bottom out force compared to the Ink Black V2, both switches still fall within the medium-heavy category. Thus, regardless of the choice, users can expect a solid and tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two would depend on the individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing sensation.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, we find that the Ink Black V2 has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Silent Brown has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Ink Black V2 falls into the more traditional range with its 4 mm travel distance, offering a standard depth that many are accustomed to. On the other hand, the Silent Brown provides a slightly shallower travel distance at 3.8 mm, making it a popular choice for gamers seeking quicker response times. If responsiveness is your priority, the shorter travel distance of the Silent Brown may be preferable. However, those who enjoy a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may lean towards the Ink Black V2's longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and the desired 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 TTC Silent Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $3.68.
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 is known for its low-pitched, bassy sound profile. These switches offer a deeper and richer sound during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, the Ink Black V2 switches have a unique chirpy quality, adding a little squeak to their acoustic signature, making them stand out from other switches. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a muted sound profile. These switches are designed to produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors like the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, both the Ink Black V2 and the Silent Brown switches offer a mild typing experience. They both fall into the safe, middle-ground zone of switches with more gentle characteristics. This means that the sound and feel of these switches will be approachable to most users. Additionally, both switches are described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This can be attributed to the materials used in the switches or the factory lubing process. As a result, you can expect reduced friction and smooth key travel with both the Ink Black V2 and the Silent Brown switches. The Silent Brown switches are also described as buttery, implying a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation to users.
In summary, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offer different subjective qualities but share some similarities as well. The Ink Black V2 switches excel in providing a low-pitched, bassy sound with a touch of chirpiness, while the Silent Brown switches offer a muted sound profile. In terms of feel, both switches offer a mild typing experience and a polished, smooth key travel. Depending on your personal preferences, you can choose the Ink Black V2 switches for a deeper and richer sound or the Silent Brown switches for a quieter typing experience. Either way, you can expect a smooth and refined typing experience from both switches.
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 is a great choice. It has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a satisfying typing experience. The Ink Black V2 also has a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, offering a deeper and richer tone during key presses. In terms of feel, it is described as mild and polished, meaning it offers a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a comfortable typing experience and a light-medium level of resistance, the TTC Silent Brown is a fantastic option. It has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it easier on your fingers during prolonged typing sessions. Additionally, the Silent Brown features a muted sound profile, producing a softer and quieter typing sound, perfect for those who prefer a more discreet keyboard.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the TTC Silent Brown boils down to your personal preference for linear or tactile switches, as well as your desired typing experience and sound profile. Both switches offer their unique benefits and characteristics, so consider your preferences before making a decision.
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