Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the TTC Speed Silver, two mechanical keyboard switches perfect for those seeking a fantastic typing experience. The Ink Black V2, a linear switch, has long been a beloved choice within the keyboard community. Renowned for its smooth downstroke and satisfying clack, this switch offers a truly satisfying feel. Categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Bassy', 'Chirpy', 'Mild', and 'Polished', the Ink Black V2 provides a unique auditory experience along with its tactile feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver, also a linear switch, prioritizes speed and precision. With a light-medium level of resistance and a pristine sound profile, these switches allow for quick and effortless actuation, making them ideal for those who value fast typing. Categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', the Speed Silver offers a clean and refined experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the TTC Speed Silver, a clear distinction can be made based on their sound profiles. The Ink Black V2 utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housing. This blend creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. In contrast, the Speed Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, results in a more clear and resonant sound. Therefore, while both switches offer a high-pitched sound, the Ink Black V2 leans more towards a clacky profile, while the Speed Silver emphasizes a crisper sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Ink Black V2 maintains its pointed and high-pitched sound profile, thanks to the proprietary INK blend. On the other hand, the Speed Silver utilizes a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer plastic nature, which absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the Ink Black V2's bottom housing. Thus, when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel, the Ink Black V2 offers a pointed and higher-pitched experience, while the Speed Silver provides a deeper and fuller sound.
In terms of the impact on sound when releasing a key, the top housing of a switch plays a significant role. In this aspect, the Gateron Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend top housing with its pointed and clacky sound characteristics influences the sound when letting go of a key. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the TTC Speed Silver contributes to a sharper and higher-pitched release sound. Although there are differences in the overall sound profiles, both switches exhibit how the top housing influences the sound upon key release.
In summary, while the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the TTC Speed Silver differ in their housing materials, they offer distinct sound profiles. The Ink Black V2 embraces Gateron's proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housing, delivering a clacky and high-pitched sound. In contrast, the Speed Silver's polycarbonate top housing produces a crisper and sharper sound, while its nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound. However, both switches demonstrate the influence of their respective top housings on the release sound. So, while there are differences, users can expect similar sound characteristics in terms of the impact on the release sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, there are notable differences between the two. The Ink Black V2 requires a higher actuation force of 60 grams, making it slightly heavier compared to the Speed Silver, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. This means that users who prefer a stronger push feel will find the Ink Black V2 more suitable, as it offers a more substantial typing experience. In terms of bottom out force, the Ink Black V2 also requires a higher force of 70 grams compared to the Speed Silver, which has a bottom out force of 55 grams. This indicates that the Ink Black V2 provides a slightly heavier typing sensation overall. However, both switches fall within the medium-weight range, providing a good balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. So, while the force requirements differ, users can achieve similar results in terms of actuation and bottoming out, ultimately depending on their preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, we can see that there is a difference between the two. The Ink Black V2 has a travel distance of 4.0mm, which is a more traditional distance, while the Speed Silver has a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm. This means that if you prefer a more responsive feel when pressing down on a key, the Speed Silver would be the better choice for you. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times. However, for those who prefer a deeper and more gradual feel, the Ink Black V2 with its longer travel distance would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference 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 Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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 well-known for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, making it a classic choice among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. It produces a low-pitched, bassy sound during key presses, which gives it a deeper and more mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Additionally, the Ink Black V2 offers a mild and polished typing experience, with a more gentle feel and reduced friction due to its smooth and refined finish.
On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch is perfect for those who prioritize a fast and precise typing experience. It provides a light-medium level of resistance and a pristine sound profile. While the exact sound profile of the Speed Silver is described as neutral, its actuation force requirement and moderate sound make it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or an advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and TTC Speed Silver switches have similar qualities when it comes to sound and feel. Both offer a mild and polished typing experience, making them approachable to most users. While the Ink Black V2 has a low-pitched, bassy sound with a rich clack, the Speed Silver has a neutral sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences and the specific use case. It's worth noting that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors like the keyboard and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, it is an excellent choice for those seeking a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams. This switch is best known for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, making it a favorite among the mechanical keyboard community. With its low-pitched, bassy, and chirpy sound profile, the Ink Black V2 offers a unique acoustic signature that sets it apart from other switches. Additionally, its mild and polished feel provides a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a faster and more precise typing experience, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch is the one for you. With a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, these switches offer a reduced travel distance, allowing for quick and effortless actuation. The Speed Silver switch has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. Similar to the Ink Black V2, the Speed Silver also provides a mild and polished feel, ensuring a comfortable typing experience with reduced friction.
In summary, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is ideal for those who prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a unique sound profile, while the TTC Speed Silver linear switch is perfect for individuals who prioritize speed and precision in their typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
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