Gateron Mars vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mars and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Gateron Mars and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switches, both options stand out for their unique features while catering to different typing experiences. The Mars switch is lauded for its innovative design, incorporating a POK stem along with a durable housing made from a blend of Nylon and POM, resulting in a smooth and responsive feel that enthusiasts appreciate. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black is designed specifically for quieter environments, providing a soft, cushy bottom-out sensation and minimal audio feedback—ideal for office settings or shared spaces. While the Mars switch excels in performance and tactile satisfaction, the Silent Ink Black emphasizes a serene typing experience without sacrificing responsiveness. 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
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
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
22mm double-staged spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The Gateron Mars and Gateron Silent Ink Black switches are constructed from different housing materials, leading to distinct auditory experiences. The Mars features a nylon top housing, which is revered for its ability to absorb sound due to its more pliable nature. This creates a sound profile that is deeper and fuller, producing a muted sound when typing. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black uses a proprietary INK blend for its top housing that lends itself to a higher-pitched, clacky sound. This inherent characteristic of the INK blend allows for a more pointed audio signature, highlighting the differences between the two switches in terms of sound output when keys are released.
Examining the bottom housings reveals an additional layer of complexity in their sound profiles. The Gateron Mars opts for a POM bottom housing, which produces a unique and muted sound, contributing to the overall deeper tone of the switch. This muted quality provides a plush bottoming-out experience that complements the softer nylon top. Conversely, the Silent Ink Black also employs the proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, reinforcing the sharp and clacky nature of the switch. The use of the INK blend across both housing components results in a more consistent high-pitched sound throughout the switch’s action, which caters finely to typists who appreciate a lively auditory feedback.
Despite their differing materials, the Gateron Mars and Silent Ink Black switches share common ground in how the interaction between top and bottom housings shapes the overall typing experience. The nylon top of the Mars softens and rounds off the sound produced by the POM bottom, while the two INK blend housings of the Silent Ink Black maintain a coherent sound profile that enhances its sharpness. Ultimately, the contrasting materials yield distinct sound qualities and tactile feedback, and users will find that while the Mars leans towards a more subdued auditory experience, the Silent Ink Black provides a livelier and more pronounced response, emphasizing the diversity in mechanical keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Mars linear switch to the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, there is a notable difference in actuation force and bottom out force. The Mars switch features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a softer keystroke, which can enhance typing comfort during longer sessions. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial feel that some users appreciate for its tactile feedback. Regarding bottom out forces, the Mars switch remains undefined, while the Silent Ink Black has a bottom out force of 70 grams, categorized as medium-heavy. This indicates that when fully pressed down, the Silent Ink Black requires more force compared to the Mars, enhancing the overall press that some typists may find satisfying. In summary, the Mars is the lighter option, ideal for comfort-focused users, while the Silent Ink Black offers a heavier feel for those who enjoy a greater resistance in their keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mars linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This means that when pressing down on the keys, the Mars switch offers a more responsive feel, as shorter travel distances are often favored for their quick actuation, making them suitable for gamers seeking faster response times. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black switch, with its 4.0 mm travel, provides a more traditional and deliberate depth that may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial tactile experience. Thus, if you prioritize speedy engagement, the Gateron Mars would be the better choice; however, if you enjoy a deeper key press, the Silent Ink Black would be more suitable.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Mars has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mars for $5.50.
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
The sound profile of the Gateron Mars linear switch remains unspecified, making it difficult to provide a direct comparison. However, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch is characterized by its reduced audio feedback, which is ideal for quieter environments. This silenced design encourages a more considerate typing experience, ensuring you won't disturb others nearby while you work or game. It's important to note that the overall sound of any switch can also vary based on the keyboard's construction and the keycap material.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Mars switch's tactile qualities are not detailed, leaving us to wonder about its specific characteristics. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black switch is notably praised for its silky smoothness, which translates to an exceptionally smooth typing experience. This silky feel minimizes resistance during typing, providing a comfortable and responsive interface that many users appreciate. The overall sensation when typing on the Silent Ink Black could be slightly cushioned and plush due to its design, giving it a unique touch compared to other linear switches.
Ultimately, while the auditory qualities of the Gateron Mars remain unknown, both switches provide distinct experiences in terms of feel. The Silent Ink Black offers a smooth and cushy typing experience, setting it apart for those prioritizing a quieter environment and enhanced comfort. Should you choose the Mars switch, you may also find satisfaction if it delivers a similarly smooth feel, as both types focus on providing a linear experience. Whether you lean towards the Mars or the Silent Ink Black, you can expect linear performance, but your choice may depend on your preferences for sound and specific tactile feelings.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Gateron Mars linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, it's important to consider your typing environment and personal preferences. If you value a unique design and are looking for a smoother typing experience, the Gateron Mars may be the perfect fit for you. Its innovative POK stem and blend of Nylon and POM materials could provide a satisfying feel, especially if weight is not a primary concern for you. On the other hand, if you're in an environment that requires minimal noise—like an office—or if you prefer a more tactile and heavier feedback, the Gateron Silent Ink Black would likely be the better choice. With its cushy, pillow-like bottom-out feel and silky smooth typing experience, it excels in providing a quieter operation while still delivering a satisfying typing sensation. Ultimately, the decision should hinge on whether you prioritize sound dampening and a noticeable weight in your switches or seek out a uniquely designed, smooth option.
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