Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Type S both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Ink Black V2 is a classic linear switch known for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, appealing to those who prefer a low-pitched, bassy sound with a mild and polished feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S, part of Sillyworks' "Project Rehash," offers a contemporary take on classic travel distances and molds with factory lubing techniques. This switch boasts a weightier keystroke at 65g bottom-out and a neutral yet deeper acoustic experience. While the Ink Black V2 may appeal to those who enjoy a more traditional linear switch sound profile, the Type S is a great choice for those seeking a modernized switch with a unique feel and 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
55g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and Gateron Type S switches both offer unique sound profiles when typing. The Ink Black V2 features a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound, often described as clacky. On the other hand, the Type S switch utilizes a nylon top housing that creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic material absorbing more sound. While the Ink Black V2's top housing produces a sharper sound, the Type S's nylon top housing results in a rounder and duller sound.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and Gateron Type S switches also offer distinct sound profiles. The Ink Black V2's proprietary INK blend bottom housing produces a thin and higher-pitched sound that is similarly described as clacky. Meanwhile, the Type S switch's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Despite both switches offering different bottom housing materials, they each contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switch when typing.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and Gateron Type S switches play a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of each switch. While the Ink Black V2 features a proprietary blend top and bottom housing that creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound, the Type S switch utilizes nylon top and bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile. Both switches offer unique typing experiences based on their housing materials, ultimately catering to different preferences for sound and feel when typing on mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Gateron Type S linear switch. The Ink Black V2 requires 60 grams of force to actuate and 70 grams to bottom out, while the Type S needs 55 grams to actuate and 65 grams to bottom out. The Ink Black V2 provides a more substantial typing experience due to its higher force requirements, making it suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Type S is slightly lighter in comparison, making it more suitable for those who prefer lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions. Both switches offer a medium-heavy feel overall, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of personal preference.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This can result in a consistent typing experience for users who prefer a shorter travel distance compared to other switches with longer travel distances. The uniformity in travel distance between the Ink Black V2 and the Type S can provide a similar level of tactile feedback and responsiveness for users who choose either of these switches for their mechanical keyboard setup.
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 Gateron Type S 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 Ink Black V2 linear switch is known for its low-pitched, bassy, and slightly chirpy sound profile, offering a rich and deep acoustic experience during key presses. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S linear switch is characterized by a more neutral and subdued sound, providing a dampened and subtle typing noise. Depending on personal preference, the Ink Black V2 will provide a more pronounced and vibrant sound, while the Type S will offer a more moderate and understated acoustic experience.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is known for its mild and polished characteristics, providing a gentle and smooth typing experience. With a safe middle-ground feel, these switches offer reduced friction and seamless key travel. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available regarding the feel of the Gateron Type S linear switch. Given the brand's reputation for quality and innovation, it can be assumed that the Type S will also offer a smooth and refined typing experience, catering to those who prefer a weightier keystroke.
Overall, both the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Gateron Type S linear switches offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. While the Ink Black V2 excels in providing a rich and bassy sound with a mild and polished typing feel, the Type S offers a more neutral and subdued sound profile with a weightier keystroke experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prefer a more vibrant and pronounced typing experience or a more moderate and understated one.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, consider the bottom out force, sound profile, and feel that best suit your preferences. If you prefer a slightly heavier keystroke with a deeper bass-heavy sound, the Gateron Ink Black V2 might be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement and a smoother typing experience, the Gateron Type S could be the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for.
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