Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Outemu Dustproof Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Red mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Ink Black V2 is a classic linear switch highly favored by the community for its smooth downstroke and satisfying clack sound. Known for being low-pitched, bassy, and polished, this switch provides a mild typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Red may not have specific standout features but is still a reliable linear switch to consider. 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
60g
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
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Red, we see that the top housing of the Ink Black V2 is made of a proprietary INK blend, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials offer a satisfying sound experience, the polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Red may be more ideal for those who prefer a clearer and resonant sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Ink Black V2 features a proprietary INK blend that also offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. In contrast, the Dustproof Red utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Depending on personal preference, some users may prefer the fuller sound of the nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Red over the thinner sound of the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Black V2.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Dustproof Red will come down to individual preference in sound profile. While the INK blend housing of the Ink Black V2 offers a clacky and high-pitched sound, the polycarbonate and nylon housings of the Dustproof Red provide a sharper, crisper sound and a deeper, fuller sound, respectively. Whether you prioritize a more resonant sound experience or prefer a softer, rounder sound, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, there are notable differences in weight. The Gateron Ink Black V2 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 Outemu Dustproof Red offers a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight option. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Outemu Dustproof Red, allowing for longer typing sessions with less strain. Meanwhile, the Gateron Ink Black V2 is better suited for individuals who enjoy a more substantial push feel while typing. Both switches deliver different tactile experiences, so choosing between them ultimately depends on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, users can expect a consistent feel and experience in terms of travel distance. This means that whether you choose the Ink Black V2 or the Dustproof Red, you will get similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel with a travel distance that is neither too short nor too long, providing a satisfying typing or gaming experience for users looking for a consistent feel in their mechanical keyboard switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Black V2 has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Black V2 for $7.24.
The Outemu Dustproof Red comes in at $3.10 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 Ink Black V2 linear switch is known for its low-pitched, bassy sound profile, with a unique chirpiness to set it apart. On the other hand, there is no specific information available regarding the sound qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Ink Black V2 switch offers a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users, thanks to its smooth downstroke and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and a sleek key travel, making it a comfortable option for extended typing sessions. Meanwhile, information about the tactile feel of the Outemu Dustproof Red switch is not provided.
In conclusion, based on the available information, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch seems to offer a smoother and more refined typing experience compared to the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch. The sound profile of the Gateron switch is characterized by its low-pitched, bassy tones with a hint of chirpiness, while the feel is described as mild and polished. If the Dustproof Red switch offers similar qualities, you can expect to achieve comparable results in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences in terms of typing experience and sound profile.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch or the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, you should opt for the Ink Black V2 if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, a smooth downstroke, a rich clack sound profile with low-pitched, bassy, and chirpy characteristics, and a mild typing experience with a polished finish. On the other hand, you should go with the Dustproof Red switch if you prefer a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, although it lacks distinctive sound and feel characteristics compared to the Ink Black V2. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and bottom out force.
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