Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gazzew U4T. The Ink Black V2 is a linear switch that has earned its reputation as a community favorite due to its smooth downstroke and satisfying clack. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T is a tactile switch that offers a unique blend of thockiness and sharp tactility, providing both a bassy 'thock' sound profile and assertive tactile feedback. While the Ink Black V2 is characterized as low-pitched, bassy, chirpy, mild, and polished, the U4T falls under the categories of bassy, thocky, and sharp. Each switch has its own unique qualities that appeal to different preferences, making it essential to delve deeper beyond generalities to determine the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gazzew U4T have distinct characteristics that contribute to their respective 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 profile that is described as clacky. On the other hand, the U4T employs Gazzew's proprietary blend of plastic for both the top and bottom housing, known as "boba plastic." This unique material provides a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. While both switches have their own distinct sound profiles, they both offer satisfying auditory experiences with unique qualities.
In terms of bottom housing impact, the Ink Black V2 and the U4T will offer slightly different experiences. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, which refers to the sound and sensation when a key is fully depressed. With the Ink Black V2's INK blend bottom housing, you can expect a pointed and high-pitched yet not overly sharp bottom-out sound, contributing to its clacky nature. On the other hand, the U4T's Gazzew blend bottom housing, referred to as "boba plastic," creates a softer bottom-out sound that delivers a rich and deep experience due to its unique softness.
On the other hand, the top housing of each switch will have a greater impact on the sound when a key is released. Although the Ink Black V2 and the U4T have different proprietary blends for their top housing, they both create distinct sound profiles. The INK blend of the Ink Black V2 generates a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound when a key is released, complementing its clacky nature. In contrast, the Gazzew blend top housing of the U4T produces a deep and rich sound due to its softness. Although the specific sound profiles may differ, both switches offer satisfying auditory feedback when keys are released.
In conclusion, while the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gazzew U4T may have their unique characteristics, they both deliver pleasing auditory experiences. The Ink Black V2's INK blend top and bottom housing create a pointed and high-pitched, yet not overly sharp, clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the U4T's Gazzew blend top and bottom housing, known as "boba plastic," produces a deep and rich sound due to its softness. Despite these differences, both switches offer satisfying results, whether it's the clacky sound of the Ink Black V2 or the rich sound of the U4T.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it is evident that there are differences in both the actuation force and bottom out force. The Ink Black V2 has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. On the other hand, the actuation force of the U4T is unknown, but it has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Ink Black V2 may be more suitable as its actuation force is slightly lower than the U4T's bottom out force. This lower actuation force allows for longer periods of typing without excessive fatigue, making it ideal for those who use their keyboards for extended periods at work or during intense gaming sessions.
On the other hand, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the U4T may be the better choice. While its actuation force is not specified, its bottom out force is slightly higher than the Ink Black V2, providing a tactile feedback and a more pronounced feel when pressing down on the keys.
Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on the personal preferences and requirements of the user. Both switches offer a balance between actuation and bottom out forces, providing a satisfactory typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gazzew U4T switches are the same, both measuring 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience a similar travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches offer a consistent tactile experience with a moderate travel distance, allowing for comfortable typing or gaming sessions. Additionally, the similar travel distances of these switches make them suitable for users who prefer a standard key press depth. Whether you choose the Gateron Ink Black V2 or the Gazzew U4T switch, you can expect a satisfying typing or gaming experience with a consistent travel distance of 4 mm.
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 Gazzew U4T comes in at $6.50 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Ink Black V2 is known for its low-pitched and bassy profile. This results in a deeper and richer sound during key presses, providing a satisfying auditory experience. Additionally, these switches have a unique chirpy characteristic that sets them apart from others. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T also offers a bassy sound profile, creating a deep "thock" or a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released. Both switches provide a similar bassy experience, ensuring that you will get comparable results in terms of sound.
Moving on to feel, the Ink Black V2 offers a mild and polished typing experience. The switch falls in a safe, middle-ground zone, making it approachable to most users. Its smooth and refined finish, either due to materials used or factory lubing, minimizes friction and ensures smooth key travel. Conversely, the Gazzew U4T offers a sharp tactile experience with a high feedback intensity. The switches have a prominent and distinct tactile bump that can be felt with every keypress. While the Ink Black V2 focuses on a more gentle typing experience, the U4T emphasizes a sharp tactile response.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gazzew U4T provide different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Black V2 offers a smooth downstroke and rich clack, creating a low-pitched and bassy sound. Its feel is mild and polished, providing a gentle typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T combines a thocky sound profile with an assertive tactile feedback, resulting in a bassy and sharp tactile experience. While each switch has its own unique characteristics, if you are looking for a deep and bassy sound along with a smooth typing experience, either switch will provide similar results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron Ink Black V2 is an excellent choice. It offers a smooth downstroke and a rich clack, making it a long-time community favorite. The Ink Black V2 also has a low-pitched, bassy sound profile, providing a deep and mellow tone during key presses. Its feel is described as mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium bottom out force, the Gazzew U4T is the way to go. These switches embody a harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility. The U4T delivers an assertive tactile feedback, providing auditory and tactile satisfaction with each keystroke. Its sound profile is described as bassy and thocky, offering a deep and satisfying sound when pressed and released. The U4T has a sharp, high-intensity tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with every keypress.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch depends on your preferences. If you prioritize a smooth linear experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Ink Black V2 is the ideal option. However, if you desire a tactile switch with a medium bottom out force and a combination of thockiness and sharp tactility, the U4T is the perfect fit. Consider your typing style, sound preference, and desired feedback intensity when deciding between these two switches.
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