KTT Ash Gray vs. Gateron Ink Box Pink

Overview

If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, two options to consider are the KTT Ash Gray and the Gateron Ink Box Pink. The Ash Gray is a tactile switch that offers a delightful blend of tactile feedback, providing a substantial yet unobtrusive response. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink is a linear switch that boasts a smooth and lighter typing feel compared to other switches, with a higher-pitched clack. The Ash Gray is categorized as easy-to-press, mild, and neutral, while the Ink Box Pink is clacky, high-pitched, silky, and polished. These general pointers can help guide your decision, but let's delve deeper into the specifics of each switch to find the best fit for you.

By the numbers

KTT Ash Gray Tactile

Gateron Ink Box Pink Linear

$3.00

$2.55 per 10

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The KTT Ash Gray and the Gateron Ink Box Pink have different housing materials, which contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Ash Gray features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Ink Box Pink utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Ash Gray creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, while Gateron's INK blend top housing offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is not overly sharp. Despite these differences, both materials are known for producing a satisfying and clacky sound. So, while their sound profiles may differ slightly, users can expect similar results in terms of the satisfying sound experience.

In terms of the bottom housing, the Ash Gray's nylon material provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend bottom housing shares similar characteristics with its top housing, offering a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound without being too sharp. The bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, contributing to the overall typing experience.

When considering the impact of the housing materials on the sound, it is important to note that the top and bottom housings each play a role. Pressing down on a switch allows one to experience the qualities of the bottom housing, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Meanwhile, the top housing comes into play when one releases a key, influencing the sound produced at that moment. Therefore, while the Ash Gray and the Ink Box Pink have different housing materials for the top and bottom, the overall sound profiles of both switches are influenced by these dual housing combinations.

In summary, the KTT Ash Gray and the Gateron Ink Box Pink exhibit different sound profiles due to their housing materials. The Ash Gray's polycarbonate top housing brings a sharper and crisper sound, while the Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend top housing offers a pointed and high-pitched but not overly sharp sound. Both switches deliver a satisfying, clacky sound experience. In terms of the bottom housing, the Ash Gray's nylon material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, while Gateron's INK blend bottom housing maintains its characteristic high-pitched sound. Ultimately, the combination of top and bottom housings affects the overall sound and feel of the switch, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and the top housing influencing the sound upon key release.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch, there are some noticeable differences. The Ash Gray has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams, compared to the Ink Box Pink's 50 grams. This means that the Ash Gray will require less force for a keystroke to be registered. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Ash Gray is slightly heavier, with a force of 53 grams compared to the Ink Box Pink's 60 grams.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Ash Gray would be a better choice as it offers a lower actuation force. This lighter force allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel and prefer a stronger push may find the Ink Box Pink more suitable with its heavier actuation force.

It is worth noting that while the actuation and bottom out forces differ between the two switches, they both fall within the medium range. This means that regardless of the switch chosen, users can expect a relatively balanced and familiar typing experience.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch is 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular. Gamers, in particular, appreciate shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Ash Gray switch would be the better option. However, for those who prefer a more substantial feel and depth when pressing down on the keys, the Ink Box Pink switch with its slightly longer travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, personal preference will play a significant role in determining which switch is preferred.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the KTT Ash Gray switch is best described as a neutral switch. It has a moderate sound profile that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user and whether you plan to use it at home or work. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch has a clacky sound with a higher-pitched tone. The sound is sharp, crisp, and percussive, which may be preferred by those who prefer a more distinct sound profile. However, it's important to note that the sound of both switches is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the KTT Ash Gray switch offers an easy-to-press experience. It provides gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The switch has a mild feel, which means it offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Overall, the KTT Ash Gray switch provides a responsive and low-impact typing feel that appeals to a wide range of users.

On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch provides a silky and polished typing experience. It offers an exceptionally smooth typing feel, enhancing the overall smoothness when pressing and releasing keys. The switch has a refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. These qualities make it a preferred choice for those who prioritize a smooth typing experience.

In conclusion, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ash Gray switch provides a neutral sound profile with a light touch and crisp actuation, while the Ink Box Pink switch has a clacky sound with a higher-pitched tone. In terms of feel, the Ash Gray switch offers an easy-to-press and mild experience, while the Ink Box Pink switch provides a silky and polished feel. It is important to consider personal preferences and typing requirements when choosing between these switches. However, if you prefer a similar typing experience with either switch, you can expect comparable results in terms of their respective qualities.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prioritize a light touch with a crisp actuation and a blend of tactile feedback that is not overwhelming, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch is a great choice for you. With a bottom out force of 53 grams, it offers an easy-to-press and mild typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, its neutral sound profile makes it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work.

On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother typing experience and a higher-pitched clack sound when pressing the keys, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is a suitable option. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, it provides a lighter typing feel relative to other switches. The silky and polished feel of these switches enhances the smoothness of the typing experience and reduces friction during key travel.

Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch depends on your personal preferences. Consider whether you value a light touch with tactile feedback or a smoother typing experience with a higher-pitched sound. Both switches offer unique features that can enhance your overall typing experience. In the end, make your decision based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable to you.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Ash Gray Tactile

$3.00

$2.55 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Ink Box Pink Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more