Cherry MX Speed Silver vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Gateron Silent Ink Black mechanical keyboard switches, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and needs. The MX Speed Silver is ideal for those seeking the ultimate in rapid response and speed, thanks to its linear action and low spring resistance, making it perfect for gaming where every millisecond counts. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black switch offers a quieter typing experience with its cushioned bottom-out feel and minimal audio feedback, making it a great choice for quieter environments. 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
3.40 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Gateron Silent Ink Black, both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The MX Speed Silver features a nylon top and bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a pointed and higher-pitched sound profile that is described as being clacky. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide a unique typing experience based on the qualities of their respective housing materials.
While the nylon housing of the MX Speed Silver emphasizes a deeper and rounder sound profile, the INK blend housing of the Silent Ink Black focuses on a higher-pitched and pointed sound, creating a contrast in the auditory experience of typing on these switches. Additionally, the softer nature of nylon in the MX Speed Silver's housing may result in a different tactile feedback compared to the more rigid properties of the INK blend in the Silent Ink Black. These distinctions in housing materials contribute to the overall typing feel and sound of each switch, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the typing experience, it is evident that the bottom housing plays a significant role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housing materials further emphasizes the importance of housing material in determining the overall typing experience of a mechanical switch. Whether nylon or INK blend, the choice of housing material can greatly impact the sound, feel, and overall satisfaction of typing on a particular switch.
Weight
The Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has an actuation force of 30 grams, making it a lighter option compared to the Gateron Silent Ink Black with an actuation force of 60 grams. The MX Speed Silver does not have a specified bottom out force, while the Silent Ink Black has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is medium-heavy. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the MX Speed Silver would be the ideal choice, as it requires less force to actuate. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black is better suited for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel, as it has a higher actuation force and bottom out force. Both switches provide different typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to users with varying preferences for key press resistance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, it is clear that the MX Speed Silver has a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm compared to the Silent Ink Black's 4mm. The shorter travel distance of the MX Speed Silver is ideal for gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Silent Ink Black may be preferred by those seeking a more substantial key press. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, with the MX Speed Silver providing a quick and snappy feel, while the Silent Ink Black offers a slightly more deliberate key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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 Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched characteristics, producing a deep and rich noise when pressed, suitable for those who seek a more bass-heavy tone. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch offers a muted sound, making it ideal for quieter environments where minimizing noise is essential. The difference in sound between the two switches can significantly impact the overall typing experience, especially in shared spaces or during late-night gaming sessions.
Moving on to feel, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is recognized for its textured sensation, providing users with a tactile feedback that some may find appealing for a more immersive typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch offers a silky and polished feel, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience with minimal resistance. The preference between a textured or silky switch ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style, as each provides a unique tactile sensation that can enhance typing comfort and productivity.
Taking into consideration the sound and feel characteristics of the Cherry MX Speed Silver and Gateron Silent Ink Black switches, it is evident that they cater to different preferences and requirements. While the MX Speed Silver offers a thocky sound and textured feel, ideal for gamers seeking rapid response and tactile feedback, the Gateron Silent Ink Black provides a muted sound and silky, polished feel, perfect for those looking for a quieter and smoother typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences, typing needs, and the specific environment in which they will be used. However, both switches offer high-quality performance and reliability, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of the choice made.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch or the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your specific preferences and needs. If you are a gamer looking for the fastest response time and prefer a linear switch with low spring resistance, then the MX Speed Silver may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you work in a quieter environment and value a smoother, more refined typing experience with minimal noise, then the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch could be the perfect fit. Consider factors such as sound, feel, and bottom out force to make the decision that best suits your typing style and environment. Ultimately, both switches offer unique advantages and it's up to you to determine which one aligns best with your needs.
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