Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the HMX Swift 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 HMX Swift, both of which are linear switches. The Gateron Ink Black V2 is renowned for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, making it a favorite among many in the community. On the other hand, the HMX Swift stands out for its deeper sound profile and silky smoothness, thanks to its full nylon housings and delicate 42g actuation force. While the Ink Black V2 is characterized by its low-pitched and bassy feel, the Swift is known for being clacky and easy-to-press. These switches offer different experiences and cater to individual preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the HMX Swift utilize different housing materials for their top and bottom housings. The Ink Black V2 features a proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing, known for its pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. This creates a satisfyingly thin and clacky sound when typing. On the other hand, the Swift uses a nylon top and bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the Ink Black V2.
In terms of sound characteristics, the top housing of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the bottom housing of the HMX Swift have similar qualities in terms of their impact on sound and feel. Both the INK blend and nylon materials contribute to the overall sound profile of each switch, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite differences in materials and sound profiles, both switches offer unique typing experiences due to the distinct properties of their housing materials.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the HMX Swift may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. While the INK blend top and bottom housings of the Ink Black V2 create a clacky and high-pitched sound, the nylon top and bottom housing of the Swift offer a deeper and rounder sound profile. Both switches provide a unique typing experience based on the specific qualities of their housing materials, allowing users to choose the switch that best suits their typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, it is evident that they offer different experiences. The Ink Black V2 has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams, while the Swift has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams. The bottom out force of the Ink Black V2 is 70 grams, making it slightly heavier compared to the Swift's 50 grams. This means that the Ink Black V2 provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Swift offers a lighter touch for those who prefer a gentler typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the heavier actuation force of the Ink Black V2 being better suited for those who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke, and the lighter actuation force of the Swift being preferred by those who prioritize typing comfort over tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.9 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Ink Black V2 offering a slightly deeper press compared to the Swift. Gamers may prefer the Swift for its slightly faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more robust feel may lean towards the Ink Black V2. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing or gaming 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 HMX Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift for $2.99.
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 renowned for its low-pitched and bassy tones, providing a mellow and rich sound experience with a distinct chirpy quality. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch offers a unique clacky sound profile, giving off a sharp and snappy sound with a deep resonance thanks to its nylon housings. Both switches present different sound characteristics that cater to varying preferences and environments, with the Ink Black V2 delivering a smoother and bass-heavy sound, while the Swift offers a brighter and percussive tone.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is known for its mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle and refined typing feel that falls into a safe middle-ground zone. The HMX Swift linear switch, on the other hand, provides an easy-to-press and feathery typing sensation, with minimal resistance and light actuation force for effortless and comfortable typing sessions. Additionally, the Swift switch offers a bouncy and creamy feel, giving users a spring-like feedback and smooth keystrokes that feel like gliding across the keys. Both switches offer distinct tactile experiences that cater to different preferences, with the Ink Black V2 providing a polished and mild feel, while the Swift offers a light and bouncy typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. Whether you prefer a smoother, bass-heavy sound with a gentle and refined typing feel like the Ink Black V2, or a clacky, bright sound with an easy-to-press and bouncy typing experience like the Swift, both switches provide distinct characteristics that enhance the overall typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound profile and typing feel, you can choose between the classic smoothness of the Ink Black V2 or the deeper resonance of the Swift switch to achieve similar results in terms of quality and performance.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a medium-heavy linear switch with a smooth downstroke and rich clack, the Gateron Ink Black V2 would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a deeper sound profile and a silkier smoothness, the HMX Swift would be the ideal option. The choice between these two switches ultimately depends on your personal preference for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. Consider what qualities are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch and select the switch that best aligns with your preferences for an optimal typing experience.
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