Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black

Overview

Introducing the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Silent Ink Black - two mechanical keyboard switches that elevate your typing experience. The Ink Black V2, a linear switch, has stood the test of time and has long been a community favorite. With its smooth downstroke and rich clack, it offers a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black is the silenced version of the Ink Black switch, perfect for environments that require quieter typing. This switch provides a cushiony, pillow-like bottom-out feel while minimizing audio feedback. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and advantages. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can make an informed decision and choose the best switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Black V2 Linear

Gateron Silent Ink Black Linear

$7.50

$7.24 per 10

$8.50

$8.35 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Silent Ink Black both feature a proprietary INK blend for their top and bottom housings. This blend results in a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. This similarity in sound profile suggests that users can expect similar sound characteristics from the two switches.

However, it is worth noting that if the top and bottom housings are different for a given switch, the qualities brought by each housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be felt, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. In contrast, the top housing will have a more significant influence on the sound when releasing a key.

Although the information provided does not specify if the top and bottom housings differ between the Ink Black V2 and the Silent Ink Black, we can assume that the housing materials for both switches are likely to provide similar results. Since the proprietary INK blend is described consistently for both switches' top and bottom housings, it is reasonable to expect that they will offer a similar sound profile and performance.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, it is evident that both switches have identical force requirements. Both switches have an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, placing them in the medium-heavy range. This means that regardless of the switch chosen, users can expect consistent results in terms of the force needed to trigger keystrokes and the sensation of bottoming out. This similarity is advantageous for those who appreciate uniformity and prefer a consistent typing experience. As for weight considerations, individuals who prefer a lighter key press to type for extended periods might lean towards these switches. Meanwhile, those seeking a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience will find satisfaction in the heavier forces provided by both switches. In summary, while the Gateron Ink Black V2 and Gateron Silent Ink Black may differ in certain aspects, their actuation and bottom out forces are equal, offering similarity in user experience.

Travel distance

The travel distance of a switch is the distance it travels from the top to the bottom when pressed down. This travel distance is what users feel when they activate a key. In the case of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, the travel distance measures 4 mm. Similarly, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch also has a travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, both switches have the same travel distance, ensuring users will experience a similar feel when using either switch.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, we find that the Ink Black V2 has a low-pitched, bassy sound profile. This means that it offers a deeper and richer tone during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, the Ink Black V2 has a unique chirpy characteristic, adding a subtle squeak to the sound. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black switch is described as muted, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. This means that it minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps.

Moving on to the feel, the Ink Black V2 switch offers a mild typing experience. This means that it provides a more gentle and approachable feeling compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Its qualities stand in a safe and middle-ground zone that most users will find comfortable. Additionally, the Ink Black V2 is described as polished, indicating that it has a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing experience. Similarly, the Silent Ink Black switch is also described as polished and offers a silky typing experience. This means that it provides an exceptionally smooth feel, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. With both switches, users can expect a sleek and smooth typing experience.

In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities. In terms of sound, the Ink Black V2 has a low-pitched and bassy profile with a chirpy characteristic, while the Silent Ink Black is muted and produces a softer and quieter sound. When it comes to feel, both switches are described as polished, offering smooth key travel and reduced friction. The Ink Black V2 provides a mild typing experience, while the Silent Ink Black offers a silky smooth feel. Depending on individual preferences and the desired level of noise, users can choose between these switches to achieve the sound and feel that suits their needs.

Conclusion

To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, it ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you are looking for a classic linear switch with a smooth downstroke and a rich clack, the Ink Black V2 would be a great choice. It has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams and offers a low-pitched, bassy sound profile. In terms of feel, it is described as mild and polished, providing a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

On the other hand, if you require a quieter typing experience, the Silent Ink Black would be the better option. It is a silenced version of the Ink Black switch and offers a cushiony, pillow-like bottom-out feel with minimal audio feedback. It also has a bottom-out force of 70 grams, making it medium-heavy. In terms of sound, the Silent Ink Black is described as muted, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. In terms of feel, it is described as silky and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with reduced resistance when pressing and releasing keys.

Ultimately, whether you choose the Gateron Ink Black V2 or the Gateron Silent Ink Black will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel. Consider the environment you will be using the keyboard in and whether a quieter typing experience is a priority for you. Both switches offer their own unique qualities and can provide a satisfying typing experience. It is recommended to try out both switches if possible to determine which one suits your needs best.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Black V2 Linear

$7.50

$7.24 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Silent Ink Black Linear

$8.50

$8.35 per 10

Learn more