Gateron Black Ink V2 is a linear mechanical switch from Gateron released in April 2020 with a 60 gf operating force and 2 mm pre-travel, 4 mm total travel, and a manufacturer rating of At least 60 million keystrokes.
Three focused profiles from published switch specifications. No overall score is generated because feel and use case are personal.
Measures actuation, travel, and force. Shorter, lighter movement favors speed. Advanced input features add capability.
Measures bump or click intensity. It uses feel type and tactile-force rise. Higher scores mean stronger feedback.
Measures published lifespan evidence. It uses documented construction details. It does not predict real-world reliability.
Gateron Black Ink V2
Gateron
Gateron
Ink V2
Smoky Translucent Black
April 2020
Available
Mechanical
Linear
MX
PCB Mount
60 ± 15 gf
70 gf
2 ± 0.6 mm
4 ± 0.2 mm
1.80 mm
No
No
No
No
Linear
MX Cross
No
Medium
Thocky
PC
Macromolecule material
POM
Single-stage
15.40 mm
70 gf
Translucent
Factory dry / light protective oil
No
No
At least 60 M cycles
5
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
Gold-plated alloy
Editor's Note: A classic mechanical keyboard icon, Black Ink V2 remains a legendary choice for builders craving a heavy, deep-sounding linear switch. The proprietary smoky Ink polymer gives bottom-outs a dense, satisfying acoustic resonance unmatched by standard polycarbonate. While modern releases arrive pre-lubed, these reward manual brush lubrication with Krytox 205g0 and switch films, transforming them into some of the silkiest switches available.
A three-axis view of compatible-keyboard input capability, tactile profile, and published durability evidence. Missing evidence remains unavailable rather than being scored as zero.
Gaming capability, tactile intensity, and build durability (0 to 100)
Explore switches with similar technology, feel, form factor, operating force, and travel.
The Gateron Black Ink V2 is a Mechanical switch from Gateron with a Linear feel, so its keypress character is primarily defined by that mechanism and feedback style.
The Gateron Black Ink V2 has an operating force of 60 gf. That is a heavier switch feel suited to users who prefer more resistance.
The Gateron Black Ink V2 has a pre-travel of 2.00 mm. Shorter actuation distances usually feel quicker because the key registers earlier in the press.
The Gateron Black Ink V2 has a total travel distance of 4.00 mm. Total travel describes the full stroke from rest to bottom-out.
The Gateron Black Ink V2 is listed as 5-pin, MX keycap compatibility is yes, and hot-swap compatibility is yes. Always match the switch pins and keyboard PCB/socket before buying.
No. The Gateron Black Ink V2 is listed as not factory lubed. Factory lubrication can affect out-of-box smoothness and sound, but its effect can vary with the keyboard build and keycaps.
Available sound-related specs for the Gateron Black Ink V2 include sound profile: Thocky, sound level: Medium. Case, plate, keycaps, and desk mat can still change the final keyboard sound.
The Gateron Black Ink V2 is rated for At least 60 M cycles. Lifespan ratings are lab-cycle estimates, so real-world durability can also depend on build quality and usage.
The Gateron Black Ink V2 lists top housing: PC, bottom housing: Macromolecule material, stem: POM, contact: Gold-plated alloy. These parts influence feel, sound, wobble, and long-term switch consistency.
Disclaimer: Specs, pricing, and benchmarks are sourced from official manufacturer data and verified test results. While we strive for precision, product details and pricing may change. Comparigon may earn an affiliate commission on qualifying purchases.
