Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Are you in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch but unsure which one to choose? Well, let's take a closer look at two popular options - the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the TKC Tangerine. The Ink Black V2 is a classic linear switch that has been favored by the community for its smooth downstroke and satisfying clack. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch is known for taking your typing experience to the next level with its incredibly smooth feel, thanks to the rare UHWMPE housings. While the Ink Black V2 is categorized as low-pitched, bassy, chirpy, mild, and polished, the Tangerine switch leans towards being frictionless, buttery, high-pitched, and polished. Both switches have their unique qualities, making them appealing choices for different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the TKC Tangerine switches differ in terms of composition and resulting sound profile. The Ink Black V2 features a proprietary INK blend top housing that is known for its pointed and high-pitched sound profile, which is described as clacky. In contrast, the Tangerine switch utilizes UHWMPE (Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene) as its top housing material. This newer material offers a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks when typing. Despite these differences, both switches produce a satisfying and higher-pitched sound, though the specific tonality may vary.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Ink Black V2 and the Tangerine switches again employ different materials. The Gateron Ink Black V2 incorporates its proprietary INK blend in the bottom housing, resulting in a similar pointed and high-pitched sound profile as its top housing. Conversely, the Tangerine switch utilizes UHWMPE as its bottom housing material. This material is also known for providing bright and resonant clacks when typing, contributing to the overall sound profile of the switch.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall switch experience, it is important to note the areas they affect. The bottom housing material has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, which refers to the sound produced when fully pressing down on a key. In contrast, the top housing material has a more pronounced impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the differences in top and bottom housing materials between the Ink Black V2 and Tangerine switches may result in varying levels of clackiness, brightness, and tonal characteristics when typing.
Overall, while the Gateron Ink Black V2 and TKC Tangerine switches employ different housing materials for both their top and bottom components, they share similarities in terms of a satisfying, higher-pitched sound. The Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend offers a pointed and clacky sound profile, while the Tangerine incorporates UHWMPE for a brighter and resonant clack. However, the specific tonality and impact on bottom-out and key release sounds may differ due to the distinct housing materials used by each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, a noticeable difference can be observed. The Ink Black V2 has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, information regarding the actuation force of the Tangerine switch is unavailable, but its bottom out force is noted to be 62 grams, which is medium in weight.
Considering the significance of weight in switches, individuals seeking a lighter typing experience may prefer the Tangerine switch due to its medium weight. This would allow for longer periods of typing without causing fatigue, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. Conversely, those who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience would lean towards the Ink Black V2 switch with its slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force. This added weight can provide a satisfying tactile response and a greater level of feedback.
In summary, while the actuation force of the Tangerine switch remains unknown, the Ink Black V2 is seemingly the heavier choice with its medium-heavy actuation force and bottom out force. However, both switches offer medium to medium-heavy weights, which can provide similar results in terms of satisfying keystrokes and overall typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key, you will feel the same distance of travel for both switches. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, you can expect similar results from both switches.
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 TKC Tangerine comes in at $6.30 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
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is best known for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, which creates a satisfying typing experience. It is described as having a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, offering a more mellow and deep tone during key presses. The Ink Black V2 switch provides a mild and polished feel, offering a gentle and approachable typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Tangerine linear switch, on the other hand, is known for its incredibly smooth feel, making each keystroke a pleasurable experience. The UHWMPE housings in the Tangerine switches contribute to their smoothness, which is a rarity among bespoke mechanical switches. However, they also produce a fairly high-pitched clack when typing. For sound, the Tangerine switch is described as having a high-pitched sound profile, which produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. In terms of feel, the Tangerine switch is described as frictionless, buttery, and polished, providing an extremely smooth, fluid, and refined typing experience.
To summarize, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the TKC Tangerine linear switches offer different subjective qualities. The Ink Black V2 has a low-pitched and bassy sound profile with a mild and polished feel. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch has a high-pitched sound profile and provides a frictionless, buttery, and polished feel. While the Ink Black V2 focuses on a smooth downstroke and rich clack, the Tangerine prioritizes an incredibly smooth feel during typing. Both switches offer a pleasing typing experience, but it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a more mellow, deep, and mild sound with a gentle feel, the Ink Black V2 is a great choice. Conversely, if you prefer a sharper, crisper sound with an ultra-smooth and refined feel, the Tangerine switch will meet your preferences. Regardless of your choice, it is important to consider other factors such as your choice of keyboard and keycaps, as they can also impact the overall sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a smooth downstroke and a rich clack sound, the Gateron Ink Black V2 is the way to go. It offers a slightly lower-pitched and bassy sound profile, which can be appealing to those who prefer a more mellow and bass-heavy tone. The Ink Black V2 also provides a mild and polished feel, making it approachable and comfortable for most typists.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium switch with an incredibly smooth feel and a high-pitched sound, the TKC Tangerine is an excellent choice. With its unique UHWMPE housing, this switch offers a frictionless and buttery typing experience, allowing for effortless and uniform keystrokes. The Tangerine produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more crisp and bright sound profile.
Ultimately, your choice between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the TKC Tangerine will depend on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a smooth downstroke and a rich clack, the Ink Black V2 is a reliable option. However, if you prioritize an incredibly smooth feel and a high-pitched sound, the Tangerine will elevate your typing experience. Consider your desired bottom out force, sound profile, and feel to make an informed decision. In the end, both switches offer their own unique advantages, ensuring an enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.
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