Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
We are excited to compare and contrast two popular linear mechanical keyboard switches: the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Jwick Splash Brothers. The Ink Black V2 is a classic linear switch that has garnered a strong following within the community. Known for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, it offers a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers switches are touted as dynamic and special, drawing inspiration from the basketball duo Steph and Klay. These "speed" switches boast a shorter activation combined with a long pole stem, resulting in a great typing feel. Additionally, they display a creamy sound signature. While both switches have their unique qualities and characteristics, let's delve deeper to help you decide which switch will best suit your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Jwick Splash Brothers differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Ink Black V2 features a proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing, which contributes to a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. In contrast, the Splash Brothers incorporate a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, especially suitable for showcasing RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Splash Brothers produces a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound.
While the materials used in the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Jwick Splash Brothers differ, they still share similar attributes. Both have a relatively high-pitched sound profile, although the Ink Black V2's INK blend may provide a slightly less sharp sound compared to the polycarbonate used in the Splash Brothers. Additionally, both materials contribute to a satisfying clacky sound that is appreciated by mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. However, the translucent polycarbonate of the Splash Brothers is specifically chosen to enhance the visual appeal when combined with RGB lighting, which is not a factor present in the Ink Black V2's INK blend.
In terms of overall typing experience, the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Jwick Splash Brothers play different roles. The qualities of the bottom housing influence the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing the key. This means that the nylon bottom housing of the Splash Brothers would contribute to a deeper and rounder sound during typing, while the INK blend of the Ink Black V2's top housing would influence the sound when the key is released. It's important to consider these factors when choosing between the two switches, depending on the desired sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Gateron Ink Black V2 has an actuation force of 60 grams, which means that you will need to apply this amount of force to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the Jwick Splash Brothers is unavailable, so it is difficult to compare directly.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Gateron Ink Black V2 has a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it slightly heavier than its actuation force. This implies that you would need to apply a slightly heavier force to fully press down the key. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers has a bottom out force of 48 grams, which is noticeably lighter than the Gateron Ink Black V2. This lighter bottom out force can be appealing to individuals who prefer a more effortless typing experience, especially during long periods of use.
When considering weight, it is crucial to note that some individuals prefer a lighter actuation force as it allows for longer typing sessions without experiencing fatigue. This would make the Jwick Splash Brothers a favorable choice for those seeking a lighter typing experience. However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing feel, the Gateron Ink Black V2's medium-heavy actuation force may be more suitable.
In summary, the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and Jwick Splash Brothers differ in terms of their weight. While the specifics of the Jwick Splash Brothers' actuation force remain unknown, its bottom out force of 48 grams indicates a lighter typing experience compared to the Gateron Ink Black V2's medium-heavy actuation (60 grams) and bottom out (70 grams) forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is 4.0mm, while the travel distance of the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch is slightly shorter at 3.5mm. The Ink Black V2 has a more traditional travel distance, while the Splash Brothers offers a slightly shallower distance. Gamers may prefer the Splash Brothers with its shorter travel distance as it allows for faster response times. However, for those who prefer a deeper and more substantial feel, the Ink Black V2 with its longer travel distance may be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness or depth.
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 Jwick Splash Brothers comes in at $2.49 per 10 switches.
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 characteristics. This means that it offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone during key presses, giving a deeper and richer sound profile. Additionally, it has a unique chirpy quality, adding a little squeak to the overall sound signature. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound with no specific emphasis on any particular frequency range. Overall, both switches have their own distinct sound qualities with the Ink Black V2 offering a lower and richer tone while the Splash Brothers has a more neutral sound. However, it is important to note that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps being used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, both the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Jwick Splash Brothers are described as offering a mild typing experience. This means that they provide a more gentle and approachable feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Additionally, both switches are labeled as polished, which means they have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. This can be attributed to the materials used and/or factory lubing, which reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel. The Splash Brothers switch is further described as snappy, indicating that it is super responsive, possibly due to longer or dual-staged springs. It also has a bouncy quality, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. The Gateron Ink Black V2 switch, on the other hand, does not have any specific descriptors for its feel other than being mild and polished. Both switches offer a light typing feel with smooth and polished key travel, making them suitable for most users.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switches have their own unique sound and feel qualities. The Ink Black V2 is known for its low-pitched, bassy, and chirpy sound characteristics, while the Splash Brothers has a more neutral sound profile. Both switches offer a mild typing experience with a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing feel. The Splash Brothers further provides snappy and bouncy qualities, enhancing the responsive and lively feel of the switches. However, it is important to consider other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps, as these can also impact the overall sound and feel of the switches. Overall, if you are looking for a similar typing experience, either switch should provide a comparable result in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a smooth downstroke with a rich clack sound, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch may be a great choice for you. This switch offers a low-pitched, bassy, and chirpy sound profile, creating a unique acoustic experience. In terms of feel, the Ink Black V2 provides a mild and polished typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a shorter activation combined with a long pole stem, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch might be the right fit for you. Known for their "speed" switches, these switches offer a creamy sound signature and a neutral sound profile that suits most purposes. In terms of feel, the Splash Brothers provide a mild and polished typing experience, with added features such as snappiness, bounciness, and subtlety, giving you a more responsive and lively typing feel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Jwick Splash Brothers will depend on your personal preferences in terms of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. Consider your desired typing experience and acoustic preferences to make an informed decision.
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