Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Jwick Taro

Overview

Introducing the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Jwick Taro, two popular mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct typing experiences. The Ink Black V2 is a linear switch and is well-loved for its smooth downstroke and satisfying clack. It falls under the category of being low-pitched, bassy, chirpy, mild, and polished. On the other hand, the Taro switch is a tactile switch known for its comfortable and subdued color scheme. Typing with the Taro switch provides a snappy, medium-level of tactility along with acute and crisp clacks. It falls under the category of being neutral, buttery, and stepped. Both switches have their unique advantages, making them suitable for different user preferences. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the best switch for your specific needs.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Black V2 Linear

Jwick Taro Tactile

$7.50

$7.24 per 10

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Jwick Taro differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Ink Black V2 features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which offers a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. In contrast, the Taro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate, being a relatively stiffer plastic, leads to a more clear and resonant sound. While both top housings provide a higher-pitched sound, the Ink Black V2 leans towards a slightly less sharp profile compared to the Taro's polycarbonate top housing.

Moving on to the bottom housings, the Ink Black V2 utilizes the same proprietary INK blend as its top housing, resulting in a pointed and relatively high-pitched yet not overly sharp sound. On the other hand, the Taro incorporates a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer plastic composition. The nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. These differences indicate that the Ink Black V2 may offer a slightly sharper and crisper sound when bottoming out, while the Taro could provide a deeper and fuller sound experience.

In summary, the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Jwick Taro contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The INK blend top and bottom housings of the Ink Black V2 result in a satisfying thin and higher-pitched yet not overly sharp sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Taro creates a sharper and crisper sound. Furthermore, the nylon bottom housing of the Taro elicits a deeper and fuller sound compared to the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Black V2. Although both switches offer higher-pitched sounds, the specific characteristics of their housing materials differentiate their overall acoustic experiences.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, it becomes evident that they share similarities in terms of weight. The Ink Black V2 has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy category. Similarly, the Taro has an actuation force of an unknown value, but its bottom out force is recorded at 67 grams, also placing it in the medium-heavy range.

Considering weight as a factor, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience might find the Ink Black V2 more suitable for their needs. Its 60-gram actuation force allows for comfortable and extended typing sessions, making it an ideal choice for work or lengthy gaming sessions. On the contrary, those who desire a more substantial typing experience might favor the Taro. While the actuation force is unknown, its 67-gram bottom out force offers a satisfying push feel, providing a sense of solidity during typing.

In conclusion, both the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Jwick Taro switches share a medium-heavy weight, offering a balance between lighter and heavier options. Depending on personal preferences, individuals can choose accordingly to achieve their desired typing experience. Whether it's the slightly lighter actuation force of the Ink Black V2 or the satisfying push feel of the Taro, these switches cater to different user preferences while delivering similar results.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, it is clear that there is a slight difference between the two. The Ink Black V2 has a travel distance of 4.0mm, while the Taro has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7mm. This means that the Taro has a slightly shallower key press feel compared to the Ink Black V2. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Ink Black V2 is more traditional and may appeal to those who prefer a deeper key press. On the other hand, the 3.7mm travel distance of the Taro may be preferred by gamers or individuals looking for a faster response time. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The subjective qualities of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch differ in terms of sound. The Ink Black V2 is best known for its low-pitched, bassy sound profile, offering a more mellow and rich tone during key presses. Additionally, it has a unique chirpy characteristic that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Taro switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, with a moderate sound that suits most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you use it at home or work. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the Ink Black V2 provides a mild typing experience with a safe, middle-ground feel. It is described as having a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience due to reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Taro switch is characterized as buttery, offering a seamless and effortless keystroke experience. It provides a uniform typing sensation and may have a stepped feel, meaning there is some pre-travel and/or post-travel in the tactile feedback.

Considering the available information, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch offers a smooth downstroke with a rich clack sound. It has a low-pitched, bassy sound profile and provides a mild typing experience with a polished finish. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch offers a snappy, medium-level of tactility with acute and crisp clacks. It has a neutral sound profile and provides a buttery typing experience, potentially with a stepped feel. Both switches offer unique qualities and it ultimately depends on personal preference in terms of sound and feel. By selecting the appropriate keyboard board and keycaps, the desired results can be achieved for either switch, providing a satisfying typing experience.

Conclusion

To wrap up, if you're looking for a classic linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron Ink Black V2 would be a great choice. It offers a smooth downstroke and rich clack, providing a satisfying typing experience. The sound profile of these switches is low-pitched, bassy, and even slightly chirpy, which adds a unique touch. In terms of feel, the Ink Black V2 has a mild and polished sensation, ensuring that you have a gentle and refined typing experience.

On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a similar medium-heavy bottom out force, the Jwick Taro would be a suitable option. These switches offer a snappy and medium-level of tactility, which enhances your typing experience. The sound profile is neutral, providing an appropriate level of sound for most situations.

In summary, the Gateron Ink Black V2 is a fantastic choice for those who prefer linear switches with a smooth feel and a rich sound profile. The Jwick Taro, on the other hand, is ideal for those who desire a tactile switch with a satisfying level of tactility and a neutral sound profile. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal preferences and typing style. Both switches offer their own unique advantages, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you when making your selection.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Black V2 Linear

$7.50

$7.24 per 10

Learn more

Jwick Taro Tactile

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn more