Gateron Silent Ink Black vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Gateron Silent Ink Black and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the Gateron Silent Ink Black and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, it is evident that they each offer unique features and qualities. The Silent Ink Black is favored for its quiet typing experience, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° sets itself apart with its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, providing exceptional smoothness and stability while reducing noise. While both switches offer a soft and comfortable typing experience, the Silent Ink Black is praised for its cushion-like bottom-out feel, while the Zero Degree 0° excels in absorbing sound. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
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 extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Silent Ink Black and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° offer distinct characteristics that impact the sound profile of each switch. The Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend top housing creates a thinner and higher-pitched sound, known for its satisfying "clacky" feel. In contrast, the Zero Degree 0°'s polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound due to its stiffness. The translucency of the polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the functionality of the switch.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, the Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend and the Zero Degree 0°'s nylon bring different qualities to the switches. The INK blend bottom housing of the Silent Ink Black offers a pointed and high-pitched sound, complementing the top housing's characteristics. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Zero Degree 0° creates a deeper and fuller sound, absorbing more sound due to its softer nature. This results in a duller and rounder sound profile, in contrast to the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing.
Overall, while the Silent Ink Black and the Zero Degree 0° feature different housing materials for both the top and bottom, they each offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The combination of the top and bottom housing materials in each switch impacts the overall typing experience, with the top housing affecting the sound upon key release and the bottom housing influencing the key press and bottom-out sound. Whether you prefer the clacky feel of the Silent Ink Black or the deeper sound of the Zero Degree 0°, both switches offer quality housing materials that enhance the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is evident that there are some notable differences. The Silent Ink Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, with the bottom out force being unknown. The Silent Ink Black offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the Zero Degree 0° provides a lighter typing experience, which is ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Zero Degree switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Silent Ink Black switch. The difference may not be significant, but it could result in a slightly faster response time for the Zero Degree switch. Gamers who value quick reactions might prefer the Zero Degree switch, while those who prefer a bit more depth in their key presses might lean towards the Silent Ink Black switch. Ultimately, both switches offer a smooth linear feel, but the decision between the two could come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance.
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 Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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
Overall, both the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch offer a quieter typing experience compared to traditional mechanical switches. The Silent Ink Black provides a cushiony bottom-out feel and minimal audio feedback, making it a great choice for environments where noise level is a concern. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° boasts a unique self-padding design and dual-rail structure, offering unmatched smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that helps absorb sound and reduce noise.
While the sound profile of the Silent Ink Black is likely to be muted and quieter, the sound profile of the Zero Degree 0° is unknown. Both switches seem to prioritize a smoother typing experience, with the Silent Ink Black being described as silky and polished. It is important to note that the feel of a switch is highly subjective and can vary depending on personal preference.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a quieter typing experience with a cushiony feel, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch might be the way to go. However, if you prefer a different sound profile and are intrigued by the innovative design of the Zero Degree 0°, it could also be a great option. Ultimately, trying out both switches on different keyboards and keycap setups will help you determine which one suits your preferences and typing style the best. Since both switches are linear, you can expect a similar typing experience in terms of smoothness and lack of tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, consider the environment in which you will be using the keyboard. If you require a quieter typing experience, the Silent Ink Black is the way to go as it offers a cushioned bottom-out feel with minimal noise. On the other hand, if you are looking for innovation in silent typing with smoothness and stability, the Zero Degree 0° is the ideal choice with its self-padding design and dual-rail structure. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for sound and feel, as well as the specific requirements of your typing environment.
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