KTT Ash Gray vs. Gateron Ink Black V2
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Gateron Ink Black V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the KTT Ash Gray and the Gateron Ink Black V2. The Ash Gray is a tactile switch known for its delicate yet noticeable feedback, providing a satisfying keystroke experience without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 is a linear switch cherished by the community for its smooth downstroke and satisfying clack sound. While the Ash Gray offers an easy-to-press and mild typing experience, the Ink Black V2 boasts a low-pitched, bassy, and polished feel. However, let's delve beyond these generalities to assist you in determining the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The KTT Ash Gray and the Gateron Ink Black V2 have distinct differences in their housing materials. Firstly, the Ash Gray features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Ink Black V2 has a proprietary INK blend top housing. The polycarbonate housing of the Ash Gray creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for users who prefer a more clear and resonant typing experience. Conversely, the INK blend top housing of the Ink Black V2 is characterized by its pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, which is often described as clacky. Both materials offer unique sound profiles, albeit with different tonal qualities.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Ash Gray utilizes a nylon material, while the Ink Black V2 employs a proprietary INK blend. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its relatively softer composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the INK blend bottom housing in the Ink Black V2 maintains its thin and higher-pitched sound profile, accentuating the clackiness of the switch. Therefore, if you prefer a switch with a deeper and fuller sound, the Ash Gray's nylon bottom housing would be more suitable, whereas the Ink Black V2's INK blend bottom housing is better suited for those who enjoy a thinner and clacky sound.
While the top and bottom housings of the KTT Ash Gray and Gateron Ink Black V2 differ, it's important to note that their overall sound profiles are influenced by both materials. When pressing down on either switch, you will feel the impact of the bottom housing, which contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing has a stronger influence on the sound produced when you release a key. Despite their variations, it is clear that both switches offer unique and satisfying sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Ash Gray has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Ink Black V2's heavier actuation force of 60 grams. This means that the Ash Gray switch requires less pressure to register a keystroke, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch and need to type for longer periods of time without fatigue. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 has a higher actuation force, providing a more substantial typing experience for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel.
Similarly, when considering the bottom out force, the Ash Gray switch has a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Ink Black V2 has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams. This means that the Ash Gray switch requires less force to fully press the key down, resulting in a slightly lighter and smoother typing experience. In contrast, the Ink Black V2 switch requires more force to bottom out, giving a more solid and tactile feel to each keystroke.
Overall, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch offers a lighter actuation force and bottom out force, providing a smoother and more comfortable typing experience for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch offers a heavier actuation force and bottom out force, giving a more substantial and tactile typing experience for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel. Depending on individual preferences, one can choose the switch that best suits their typing style and desired feel.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Ink Black V2 has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Ash Gray switch. A travel distance of 4 mm is considered more traditional, while 3.5 mm is on the shorter side. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. If you are looking for a more responsive typing or gaming experience, the Ash Gray switch with its shorter travel distance may be the better choice. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt. If you prefer a deeper key press, the Ink Black V2 switch with its longer travel distance could be a better fit. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the specific typing or gaming experience you are seeking.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Ash Gray has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ash Gray for $2.55.
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.
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
In terms of sound, the Ash Gray tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for most purposes. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 linear switch offers a low-pitched, bassy sound profile with a unique chirpy characteristic. This switch has a deeper and richer sound during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. It also has a slight squeak, setting it apart from other switches. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both the Ash Gray tactile switch and the Ink Black V2 linear switch are described as mild. This means that they offer a gentle typing experience, making them approachable to most users. The Ash Gray switch has an easy-to-press quality, providing minimal resistance during key presses and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. It offers a responsive and low-impact typing feel. Similarly, the Ink Black V2 switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. This could be due to the materials used or factory lubrication, which reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel.
Overall, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch have some similar qualities. Both switches have a mild feel, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Additionally, they both have a neutral sound profile, although the Ink Black V2 switch has a low-pitched, bassy sound with a unique chirpy characteristic. It's important to consider personal preferences and other factors, such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps, when selecting a switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a tactile switch with a medium-light bottom out force, the KTT Ash Gray switch is a great choice. It offers a delightful blend of tactile feedback that is not too overwhelming, providing a crisp actuation with a light touch. This switch is designed to deliver a substantial yet unobtrusive tactile response, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various settings, including home or work. In terms of sound, the Ash Gray switch has a neutral profile, making it a versatile option for different purposes.
On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron Ink Black V2 switch is worth considering. This switch is well-known in the community for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, offering a satisfying typing experience. In terms of sound, the Ink Black V2 switch has a low-pitched and bassy tone, providing a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. Additionally, it has a unique chirpy characteristic that sets it apart from other switches.
Overall, if you prioritize a light and tactile typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the KTT Ash Gray switch is a solid choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a low-pitched sound profile with a touch of chirp, the Gateron Ink Black V2 switch would be a great fit. Consider your typing preferences and desired sound characteristics when making your selection.
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