Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the TTC Silent Frozen, both of which are linear switches. The Ink Black V2 is a classic choice with a smooth downstroke and a satisfying clack. It is best known for its low-pitched, bassy sound and a mild, polished feel. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen switch stands out for its exceptionally quiet sound profile. Along with being super smooth, it offers a pillowy type feel while typing. Categorized as thocky, low-pitched, creamy, buttery, muted, feathery, subtle, and polished, these switches provide an entirely unique typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preference and typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
39g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Silver white spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Black V2 and TTC Silent Frozen differ in their housing materials. The Ink Black V2 features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which is known for its pointed and high-pitched sound profile. It is described as clacky and satisfyingly thin. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Due to its translucency, the polycarbonate housing is especially beneficial for those who plan to use RGB lighting. While both switches offer a satisfying sound profile, the Ink Black V2's top housing may provide a slightly less sharp tone compared to the Silent Frozen's polycarbonate top housing.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Ink Black V2 and the Silent Frozen also differ in their materials. The Ink Black V2 uses a proprietary INK blend bottom housing, contributing to its pointed and high-pitched sound profile. This results in a clacky and satisfying sound when the switch is pressed down. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen employs a polycarbonate bottom housing. This stiffer plastic material provides a clearer and more resonant sound profile, producing a sharper and higher-pitched tone. Similar to the top housing, if you prioritize a switch with a clear housing for RGB lighting, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Silent Frozen would be the ideal choice.
When it comes to the overall performance and feel of the switch, the bottom housing material plays a crucial role. The qualities of the bottom housing directly affect the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. In this aspect, both the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the TTC Silent Frozen share similar characteristics as their bottom housings contribute to the satisfying and clacky sound profile. However, the top housing material has more impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, although the housing materials may differ for these switches, the overall experience and satisfaction in terms of sound and feel can be achieved with either the Ink Black V2 or the Silent Frozen.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Ink Black V2 has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it medium-heavy in terms of force required. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen offers a lighter typing experience with an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. This makes it a more lightweight option.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Silent Frozen switch would be the ideal choice. It allows for longer periods of typing without excessive hand fatigue, making it suitable for prolonged use such as in a work environment or during extended gaming sessions. Additionally, the lower actuation and bottom out forces provide a smoother and more effortless keystroke.
Alternatively, for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Ink Black V2 switch is the better option. Its heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide a tactile feedback, offering a satisfying and responsive typing experience. This would be suitable for those who value a more forceful keystroke for improved accuracy and precision.
Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and the specific requirements of the user. Lighter weight switches like the Silent Frozen prioritize extended typing comfort, while heavier switches like the Ink Black V2 provide a more robust and tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Ink Black V2 has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Silent Frozen has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Ink Black V2 falls into the category of a more traditional travel distance at 4.0 mm, providing a deeper key press sensation. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen's 3.5 mm travel distance is a bit shallower, appealing to those who prefer a quicker response time, such as gamers. While both options offer a satisfying key press experience, those seeking a shorter travel distance for improved responsiveness may opt for the Silent Frozen, while those who prefer a deeper and more substantial feel may lean towards the Ink Black V2. Ultimately, the choice depends on personal preference and individual typing or gaming style.
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 Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.33.
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 and bassy sound profile. It offers a deep and rich tone during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, it has a unique chirpy acoustic signature that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch is described as thocky, low-pitched, and muted. It produces a deep and satisfying sound, similar to a soft "knock" or "thud" when pressed and released. It also minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Keep in mind that the actual sound of a switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, both switches offer different sound profiles, with the Ink Black V2 being more bass-heavy and chirpy, while the Silent Frozen provides a thocky and muted sound.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is described as mild and polished. It offers a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, providing a sleek typing sensation. Conversely, the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch has a range of descriptors for its feel, including creamy, buttery, feathery, subtle, and polished. These switches offer a smooth, buttery, and uniform typing sensation, like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. They have a light actuation force which reduces finger fatigue and makes them comfortable for extended typing sessions. Additionally, the subtle and polished characteristics of these switches make them suitable for shared spaces. Overall, the Ink Black V2 has a mild and polished feel, while the Silent Frozen offers a creamy, buttery, and feathery typing experience.
Considering all the available information, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switches have distinct subjective qualities. The Ink Black V2 has a low-pitched, bassy sound profile with a unique chirpy acoustic signature. Its feel is described as mild and polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen has a thocky, low-pitched, and muted sound. Its feel is characterized as creamy, buttery, feathery, subtle, and polished, offering a smooth and effortless typing sensation. While the switches have different sound and feel qualities, they both provide a smooth downstroke and super smooth experience.
It is important to remember that personal preferences play a significant role in determining the ideal switch for each individual. Factors such as typing style, typing speed, and preference for sound and feel should be taken into consideration when selecting a switch. Additionally, factors like the keyboard board and keycaps used can also affect the overall experience. If you enjoy the smooth downstroke and rich clack of the Gateron Ink Black V2, you can expect similar results in terms of smoothness and satisfaction from the TTC Silent Frozen. However, the Silent Frozen will provide a different sound profile and a range of additional feel characteristics like creaminess and feather-light pressing. Ultimately, it is recommended to try out different switches to find the one that best suits your preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a classic linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth downstroke, the Gateron Ink Black V2 is an excellent choice. It offers a rich clack sound and has a low-pitched and bassy sound profile. The Ink Black V2 provides a mild feel with a polished finish, resulting in a comfortable and sleek typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer an extremely quiet switch with a light bottom out force, the TTC Silent Frozen is the switch for you. It offers a super smooth and pillowy feel, accompanied by a thocky and low-pitched sound profile. The Silent Frozen delivers a creamy and buttery typing experience, allowing for effortless and uniform keystrokes.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and TTC Silent Frozen depends on your preferences. If you prioritize a heavier switch with a traditional linear feel and a rich clack sound, the Ink Black V2 is an ideal option. However, if you value silence, a light touch, and a satisfying thocky sound, the Silent Frozen is the perfect fit. Consider your typing style, desired sound profile, and overall feel when making your decision.
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