Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a multitude of options available, each offering their own unique qualities and characteristics. Two popular linear switches that stand out are the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear. The Ink Black V2 is a classic choice and has long been loved by the keyboard community for its smooth downstroke and rich clack. Categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Bassy', 'Chirpy', 'Mild', and 'Polished', this switch provides a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear is known for its smooth, high-pitched typing experience. With a transparent polycarbonate top housing and UHMWPE bottom housing, it allows for maximum RGB lighting customization. The POM stem is also lightly lubed, ensuring minimal friction and a buttery smooth keystroke. While these general pointers can help you narrow down your choice, 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
53g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Double-staged stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches offer distinct characteristics that result in different sound profiles. The Ink Black V2 features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which is known for its pointed and high-pitched yet not overly sharp sound. This creates a satisfying, clacky sound that is often appreciated by typists. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a clear and resonant sound, making it particularly suitable for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Ink Black V2 and the WS Aurora Clear switches have different materials. The Ink Black V2 employs the proprietary INK blend bottom housing, which contributes to its pointed and high-pitched sound profile. This adds to the overall clacky experience when typing on the switches. In contrast, the WS Aurora Clear utilizes a UHWMPE (ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene) bottom housing. This relatively new material for switch housings generates a very bright sound signature, resulting in resonant clacks when typing.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch play distinct roles in determining the overall sound and feel. The bottom housing significantly impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing primarily influences the sound when a key is released. While the Ink Black V2 and the WS Aurora Clear have different housing materials for both the top and bottom, it is likely that their similar high-pitched sound profiles and clacky typing experience create comparable results overall.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, there are some noticeable differences. The Ink Black V2 requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the WS Aurora Clear's actuation force of 53 grams, making the latter lighter in this aspect. However, both switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force, with the Ink Black V2 requiring 70 grams and the WS Aurora Clear requiring 63.5 grams. This means that when fully pressed, both switches offer a similar level of resistance.
Considered weight is important for different preferences. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience or longer typing sessions may opt for the WS Aurora Clear due to its lower actuation force. Alternatively, individuals who enjoy a more substantial and forceful typing feel may prefer the Ink Black V2 with its slightly heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the decision between these switches should be based on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, it is evident that the WS Aurora Clear has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8mm, while the Ink Black V2 has a travel distance of 4.0mm. The difference of 0.2mm might seem minimal, but it can have an impact on the typing experience. The Ink Black V2 falls into the more traditional range of travel distance, offering a deeper press when compared to the WS Aurora Clear. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear offers a slightly shallower travel distance, which can be favored by gamers seeking quicker response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with the shorter travel distance providing a more responsive feel, while the longer travel distance offers a more substantial and satisfying keystroke. Both options provide satisfactory results, allowing users to find the switch that suits their individual needs.
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 Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear comes in at $8.00 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 linear switch offers a low-pitched and bassy profile with a rich clack. This gives a more bass-heavy and mellow tone during key presses, resulting in a deep and satisfying sound. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch produces a high-pitched and sharp sound. If you prefer a crisper and more pronounced sound, this switch is a great choice. Keep in mind that the sound of these switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. By selecting the appropriate components, you can achieve similar results to match your preference.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Black V2 switch provides a mild and polished typing experience. This means that it offers a gentle typing sensation without any extreme qualities. The switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switch is described as buttery, offering a seamless and effortless keystroke experience. The switch provides uniform and fluid keypresses, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable typing session. Both switches fall into the category of mild switches, providing a balance that most users will find approachable and pleasant.
Considering all the available information, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches offer different subjective qualities. The Ink Black V2 provides a low-pitched and bassy sound profile with a smooth downstroke and rich clack. It offers a mild and polished feel, ensuring a gentle and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear switch produces a high-pitched and sharp sound, making it suitable for those who prefer a crisper sound profile. Its buttery feel delivers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Both switches can provide an enjoyable typing experience depending on your preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a smooth downstroke and a rich clack, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch would be a great choice for you. It offers a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, which gives a mellow and deep tone during key presses. The Ink Black V2 also provides a mild and polished feel, ensuring a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you enjoy a high-pitched typing experience with maximum RGB lighting customization, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, it falls under the medium-heavy category as well. The WS Aurora Clear offers a high-pitched sound, producing sharp and crisp tones, making it ideal for those who prefer a more crisp and less bassy sound profile.
In terms of feel, the WS Aurora Clear provides a buttery and mild typing experience, offering a seamless and effortless keystroke sensation. Similar to the Ink Black V2, it also has a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear comes down to personal preference. Consider the sound profile, typing experience, and RGB lighting customization when making your decision.
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