Jerrzi Lotus V2 vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Lotus V2 and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Jerrzi Lotus V2, a linear switch, and the Gateron Silent Ink Black, also a linear switch, some notable differences arise. The Lotus V2 is best known for its smooth linear feel with no tactile bump, making it ideal for fast typists. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black is praised for its silent operation, giving users a peace of mind when typing in noise-sensitive environments. The Lotus V2 offers a traditional typing experience, while the Silent Ink Black provides a quieter, more cushioned bottom-out feel. However, 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
45g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Jerrzi Lotus V2 and the Gateron Silent Ink Black have distinct characteristics that contribute to their sound profiles. The Lotus V2 features a POM top housing that creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend top housing produces a pointed and higher-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. In terms of performance, the Lotus V2 offers a more subdued typing experience, whereas the Silent Ink Black provides a more sharp and pronounced sound when typing.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, both the Lotus V2 and the Silent Ink Black share similar characteristics as they both feature a POM bottom housing. This results in both switches offering an incredibly pleasing and unique sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. The bottom housing material has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, contributing to the overall typing experience for both the Lotus V2 and the Silent Ink Black switches.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Jerrzi Lotus V2 and the Gateron Silent Ink Black differ, the qualities each material brings to the switch are split between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing plays a larger role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key. This distinction allows for a varied typing experience between the two switches, with the Lotus V2 offering a deeper and smoother sound, and the Silent Ink Black providing a sharper and more clacky sound profile.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jerrzi Lotus V2 linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch reveals some key differences. The Lotus V2 has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Silent Ink Black's heavier 60 grams. This means that the Lotus V2 will require less force to register a keystroke, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black has a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a heavier push feel. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on the weight preferences of the user. Overall, the Lotus V2 is lighter in terms of actuation force, while the Silent Ink Black is heavier in both actuation and bottom out force. Depending on individual preferences, users can choose the switch that best suits their typing style.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Lotus V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter than the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Lotus V2 offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black provides a deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding key press depth and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Lotus V2 has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus V2 for $3.59.
The Gateron Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
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 Jerrzi Lotus V2 and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switches offer contrasting experiences. The Lotus V2's sound profile is currently unknown, while the Silent Ink Black is known for its muted characteristics, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular mechanical switches. This makes the Silent Ink Black a great option for those who prefer a quieter typing experience, especially in environments where noise must be minimized. However, the actual sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors like the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Lotus V2's tactile sensation is currently unknown. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black provides a silky and polished typing experience. The silky nature of these switches ensures an exceptionally smooth keypress, reducing resistance and enhancing overall typing comfort. Moreover, the polished finish of the Silent Ink Black switch contributes to a sleek typing feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This combination of characteristics makes the Silent Ink Black a popular choice for users seeking a refined typing experience.
In conclusion, while the subjective qualities of the Jerrzi Lotus V2 and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switches differ in terms of sound and feel, both switches offer unique advantages to users. The Lotus V2's sound and feel characteristics may be unknown at the moment, but users can expect a distinctive experience based on the available information. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black switch stands out for its muted sound profile and silky, polished feel, making it an excellent option for individuals looking for a quieter and smoother typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences and the specific requirements of the user.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Jerrzi Lotus V2 and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switches, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing environment. If you prioritize a cushioned bottom-out feel and a switch that offers a unique typing experience, the Lotus V2 may be the right choice for you. However, if you require a quieter typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force and smooth key travel, the Silent Ink Black would be more suitable. Consider your typing needs, sound preferences, and desired feel when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer their own advantages, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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