Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Dareu Snow both offer unique features worth considering. The Gateron Ink Black V2 is a classic linear switch that is beloved in the community for its smooth downstroke and satisfying clack. It is known for its low-pitched, bassy sound profile, making it a popular choice for those looking for a polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow sets itself apart with its innovative use of POK material in both the top housing and stem, resulting in a deeper sound signature when typing. With a thocky, neutral feel and bouncy response, the Snow switch offers a different typing experience compared to the Ink Black V2. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
POK
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Dareu Snow, we find that both switches focus on providing a clacky sound profile, albeit through different materials. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Black V2 offers a relatively high-pitched sound that is satisfying and not overly sharp. Similarly, the POK top housing of the Snow provides a smooth and clacky sound profile with exceptional durability. While the INK blend top housing aims for a thin and higher-pitched sound, the POK material contributes to a smoother and rounder sound, showcasing the diversity in sound profiles achievable through different housing materials.
Moving on to the bottom housing of these switches, the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Black V2 echoes its top housing with a thin and higher-pitched sound profile. Contrasting this, the nylon bottom housing of the Snow brings a deeper and fuller sound profile to the switch. The nylon material's ability to absorb more sound contributes to a duller and rounder sound, providing a unique typing experience that differs from the thinner, higher-pitched sound of the INK blend bottom housing. These differences show how the choice of bottom housing material can greatly impact the overall sound and feel of a switch.
Overall, while the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Dareu Snow may have different housing materials for their top and bottom components, both switches aim to deliver a clacky sound profile to users. The INK blend and POK materials each bring unique qualities to the switches, with the INK blend focusing on a pointed and high-pitched sound, and the POK material emphasizing smoothness and durability. Whether it be the clacky sound of the INK blend or the deep, fuller sound of the nylon material, users can expect a distinctive typing experience with either switch due to the intricacies and variations in housing materials used.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch to the Dareu Snow linear switch, it is clear that the Snow is the lighter option. The Snow has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 60 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Ink Black V2 has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, catering to individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel. Both switches offer a medium level of resistance, but the Snow is lighter overall, making it suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions where fatigue may be a concern. The differences in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches highlight the importance of weight preference when selecting a switch for your keyboard.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, the Ink Black V2 has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Snow has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This makes the Dareu Snow the shorter option and the Ink Black V2 the longer option. The Ink Black V2 offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a deeper feel when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the Snow's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance: the Ink Black V2 for those who prefer a deeper keypress and the Snow for those who prioritize quick responsiveness.
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 Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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 is known for its low-pitched and bassy sound profile with a subtle chirp, offering a rich and mellow tone that many users find satisfying. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch produces a thocky and low-pitched sound with a neutral tone, providing a deep and satisfying typing experience. Both switches offer a unique auditory experience, with the Ink Black V2 leaning towards a bass-heavy sound and the Snow giving a richer, thocky tone.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is characterized as mild and polished, providing a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction and offers a sleek key travel. In contrast, the Dareu Snow linear switch is described as bouncy, offering a spring-like feedback sensation that gives the keys a lively feel and rebound when pressed. While the Ink Black V2 offers a safe and approachable typing experience with its mild characteristics, the Snow provides a more dynamic and energetic feel with its bouncy feedback.
Overall, when considering the sound and feel of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Dareu Snow linear switches, it is evident that they offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you enjoy a low-pitched and bassy sound profile with a gentle and polished typing experience, the Ink Black V2 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a thocky and deep sound with a bouncy and lively feel, the Dareu Snow switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, both switches exhibit distinct characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, providing a range of options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch or the Dareu Snow linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and enjoy a low-pitched and bassy sound profile with a smooth downstroke, the Ink Black V2 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and appreciate a thocky sound profile with a deeper sound signature and innovative POK material construction, the Snow switch could be the perfect fit. Both switches offer unique characteristics and typing experiences, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Dareu Snow switches will depend on your individual preferences and priorities in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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