Gateron Silent Ink Black vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Gateron Silent Ink Black and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Silent Ink Black and the Gateron Type A mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. The Silent Ink Black is praised for its quiet typing experience, making it ideal for environments where noise is a concern. With a soft and cushioned bottom-out feel, this switch offers a smooth and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" is designed for those looking for a medium-weight switch with a deeper sound signature. While both switches fall under the linear category, the Silent Ink Black is more on the muted and silky side, while the Type A leans towards being more subdued and neutral in its sound profile. 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
60g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Silent Ink Black and the Gateron Type A, it is evident that both switches offer unique sound profiles due to their respective housing materials. The Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, resulting in a satisfyingly clacky sound. In contrast, the Type A's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is known to absorb more sound and create a duller, rounder sound. While both switches have different sound characteristics, they each provide a distinct typing experience based on the material used for their top housing.
When examining the bottom housing of the Silent Ink Black and Type A switches, similar trends can be observed. The INK blend bottom housing of the Silent Ink Black contributes to its pointed and higher-pitched sound profile, resulting in a consistent typing experience throughout the switch. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Type A switch enhances its deeper and fuller sound profile, adding to the overall typing feel and sound quality. Despite the differences in their bottom housing materials, both switches offer a unique sound signature that can cater to individual preferences based on the user's typing style.
Overall, the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron Silent Ink Black and the Gateron Type A play a crucial role in shaping the sound and feel of the switches. While the Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend offers a distinct clacky sound profile, the Type A's nylon housing provides a deeper and fuller sound experience. Despite these variations, both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience, showcasing the importance of housing materials in determining the overall performance of a mechanical keyboard switch. Whether clacky or deep, users can expect high-quality sound and feel from these Gateron switches based on their unique housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, it is clear that the Silent Ink Black is the heavier option. The Silent Ink Black has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Type A has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which classifies it as medium-light. This means that the Silent Ink Black requires more force to press down and bottom out compared to the Type A. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Silent Ink Black, while those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Type A. In terms of weight, the heavier actuation and bottom out force of the Silent Ink Black may be favorable for those looking for a switch with a stronger push feel, while the lighter Type A switch may be preferred by those who want a smoother and lighter typing experience. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing needs of the user.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, we can see that both switches have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that whether you are using the Silent Ink Black or Type A switch, you can expect a consistent travel distance experience when typing. With both switches offering the same travel distance, users can expect similar tactile feedback and keypress feel when using either switch. Ultimately, the travel distance of both switches is equal, providing a comparable typing experience for users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70 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 Silent Ink Black offers a muted and quieter typing experience, ideal for those in need of a more discreet switch. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A provides a more neutral and subdued sound profile, leaning towards deeper tones. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Silent Ink Black provides a silky and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and refined feel with minimal resistance. In contrast, information on the feel of the Gateron Type A switch is not available, but based on the descriptions provided, it can be assumed that it may offer a similar level of smoothness and minimal resistance thanks to the lube techniques used in its production.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Silent Ink Black and the Gateron Type A offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Silent Ink Black is favored for its quiet operation and cushion-like bottom-out feel, while the Type A is known for its deeper sound signature and factory lubed smoothness. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on personal preference for sound and typing feel, as both switches are likely to provide a satisfying typing experience for users.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a keyboard switch that provides a quiet typing experience with a pillow-like bottom-out feel, then the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-weight feel and a sound profile that leans towards the deeper side of the sound spectrum, then the Gateron Type A linear switch would be more suitable. Consider your typing environment and personal preferences when making a decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different needs, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style.
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