Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Outemu Gold are two popular options to consider. The Gateron Ink Black V2 is a linear switch that is loved for its smooth downstroke and rich clack. It is described as low-pitched, bassy, chirpy, mild, and polished. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold is a clicky switch that doesn't have a specific standout characteristic. While the Gateron Ink Black V2 may be preferred for its smooth feel, the Outemu Gold may be chosen for its clicky 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
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 Gold, we can see that they both offer unique sound profiles. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Black V2 provides a satisfying, relatively high-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the Gold's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. While both materials offer a high-pitched sound, the Ink Black V2's sound may be slightly less sharp compared to the Gold's polycarbonate housing.
In terms of the bottom housing, the INK blend used in the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the nylon material in the Outemu Gold offer contrasting sound profiles. The INK blend bottom housing provides a thin, higher-pitched sound that is often associated with a clacky feel. Meanwhile, the nylon bottom housing of the Gold switch offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a rounder and duller sound. This contrast in sound profiles showcases how different housing materials can significantly impact the overall typing experience of a switch.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and Outemu Gold differ, they both contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when letting go of a key. Despite their differences, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. So, whether you choose the Ink Black V2 or the Outemu Gold, you can expect a distinct typing experience based on the housing materials used in each switch.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a higher actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Outemu Gold clicky switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Gateron switch also requires more pressure at 70 grams, while the Outemu switch bottom outs at 60 grams. This means that the Gateron switch offers a heavier typing experience overall, with both the actuation and bottom out forces being higher. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Outemu Gold switch more to their liking, as it requires less force for both actuation and bottoming out. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on either key, users will experience a consistent distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance, ensuring that users will get similar results whether using the Gateron or Outemu switch. Overall, the similarity in travel distance between the two switches highlights their comparable typing feel and responsiveness, making them both popular choices among keyboard enthusiasts.
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 Gold 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, and slightly chirpy sound profile, providing users with a deep and rich typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold clicky switch's sound qualities are unknown, so it's difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is often described as mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with smooth key travel and reduced friction. This makes it a popular choice for those seeking a comfortable and refined typing feel. Conversely, the feel of the Outemu Gold clicky switch is not specified, so it's unclear how it compares to the Ink Black V2 in terms of typing sensation.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch stands out for its smooth downstroke, rich clack sound, mild feel, and polished finish. While the specific qualities of the Outemu Gold clicky switch remain unknown, based on the information provided, it is evident that the Gateron switch offers a well-rounded typing experience that caters to those who appreciate a quieter, smoother, and more refined switch option. If you're looking for similar results, opting for the Gateron Ink Black V2 may be a reliable choice for a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and rich clack with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force with a clicky sound profile, you may want to consider the Outemu Gold clicky switch. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for switch feel, sound, and bottom out force. Each switch offers unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so make sure to choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and comfort level.
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