Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Wuque Studio WS Morandi
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi are two highly sought-after linear mechanical keyboard switches, each offering a unique typing experience. The Ink Black V2 is a classic favorite in the keyboard community, renowned for its smooth downstroke and satisfying clack. With a categorization of "Low-pitched," "Bassy," "Chirpy," "Mild," and "Polished," this switch delivers a sleek and refined tactile feedback. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switches from Wuque Studio combine innovation and visual aesthetics seamlessly. These switches feature an ultra-smooth feel, enhanced by a light-diffusing column that creates a mesmerizing effect with RGB lighting. With a categorization of "Buttery," "Creamy," "Low-pitched," "Silky," "Subdued," and "Thocky," the WS Morandi switches provide a distinct dry and airy smoothness, setting them apart from factory-lubed switches. While both switches possess their own strengths and appeal, it is important to dive deeper beyond generalities to determine the best switch for your specific preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi differ in their housing materials, which ultimately affect the sound profile of each switch. The Ink Black V2 utilizes a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound, often referred to as clacky. In contrast, the WS Morandi features a POM top housing that creates a deeper and relatively more muted sound profile. This variation in sound between the two switches may make the Ink Black V2 more suitable for those seeking a sharper and crisper keystroke, while the WS Morandi may appeal to individuals desiring a softer and more subtle sound experience.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches differ in material, contributing unique qualities to the switch's overall sound and feel. The Ink Black V2 employs the same proprietary INK blend as its top housing, resulting in a pointed and high-pitched sound profile. In comparison, the WS Morandi implements a POM bottom housing, which creates a more pronounced and deeper sound. Consequently, the bottom-out sound and feel of each switch will differ, with the Ink Black V2 giving a slightly sharper and more pronounced experience, while the WS Morandi offering a mellower and more resonant sensation.
However, despite the differences in materials between the top and bottom housings of each switch, it's important to note that the impact on the overall sound profile is divided. The bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when a key is released. Therefore, whether opting for the Gateron Ink Black V2 or the Wuque Studio WS Morandi, users can expect similar results in terms of key-press sound on release. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference regarding the keystroke's initial sound and feel, as well as the desired depth and resonance of the bottom-out sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, there are both similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the Ink Black V2 requires 60 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, whereas the WS Morandi's actuation force is unavailable. Although we don't have data on the exact actuation force of the WS Morandi, we can expect similar results as the Ink Black V2, given that both switches are linear.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Ink Black V2 has a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it slightly heavier than its actuation force. On the contrary, the WS Morandi has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is equal to its actuation force. This makes the WS Morandi lighter in terms of bottoming out compared to the Ink Black V2.
Considering the weight of a switch is subjective, the Ink Black V2 would be a better choice for those who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, as it has a heavier actuation and bottom out force. On the other hand, the WS Morandi's lighter actuation and bottom out force would be suitable for individuals who prefer a lighter switch, allowing them to type for longer periods of time. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on an individual's personal preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, it is evident that the WS Morandi has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Ink Black V2 has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. The difference in travel distance may not seem significant, but it can have an impact on the typing experience. The Ink Black V2 offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a balanced and satisfying depth when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the WS Morandi's shorter travel distance may be preferred by gamers who value faster response times, as it allows for quicker actuation of the keys. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on personal preference and the specific requirements one has for their 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 Wuque Studio WS Morandi has an MSRP of $4.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Morandi for $3.90.
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, both the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches offer a low-pitched sound profile. The Ink Black V2 has a bass-heavy and mellow tone, with a rich clack that is often described as "chirpy." On the other hand, the WS Morandi switches have a more subdued sound, producing a dampened and more subtle sound signature. Additionally, the WS Morandi switches are known for their thocky sound, which is deep, rich, and satisfying. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors, such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, both switches provide unique and pleasant sound experiences, with the Ink Black V2 offering a more bass-heavy and chirpy sound, while the WS Morandi switches provide a slightly more muted and thocky sound.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Black V2 is described as having a mild and polished feel. The mildness of these switches offers a gentler typing experience, appealing to a wide range of users. The polished finish of the switch ensures a smooth and refined typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switches are known for their buttery, creamy, and silky feel. These switches provide a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, with a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Their creamy and silky characteristics offer a gliding sensation, making each keystroke feel effortless and satisfying. Ultimately, both switches offer a comfortable and smooth typing experience, with the Ink Black V2 providing a mild and polished feel, while the WS Morandi switches offer a buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Black V2 provides a low-pitched, bass-heavy sound with a rich clack, as well as a mild and polished feel. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switches offer a slightly more muted and thocky sound, with a buttery, creamy, and silky feel. Despite their differences, both switches provide a smooth and enjoyable typing experience. If you are looking for a low-pitched sound with a mellow and smooth feel, the Ink Black V2 would be a great choice. If you prefer a more subdued sound and a keypress that feels buttery, creamy, and silky, the WS Morandi switches would be the way to go. Keep in mind that the overall typing experience is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, so consider these as well to achieve your desired results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch that offers a smooth downstroke and a rich clack, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is a great choice. With its 70-gram bottom out force, it provides a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter switch with a unique dry, airy, and wispy smoothness, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch is worth considering. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, it strikes a good balance between form and function. The WS Morandi also offers a slightly more muted sound profile, making it a good option if you prefer a quieter typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi will depend on your personal preferences for switch weight, typing feel, and sound profile.
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